French rapper Werenoi, one of the country’s best-selling Rap music artists in recent years, has died at the age of 31. His record label and producer confirmed his death on Saturday, May 17, in a Paris hospital. The cause of death has not been made public.
Werenoi’s real name was Jérémy Bana Owona. According to the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), he was the top album seller in France in both 2023 and 2024. The IFPI ranking includes physical sales, online purchases, and streaming.
His record company Believe expressed deep sadness on Instagram. They said, “It’s with immense sadness that we’ve learned of Werenoi’s passing. Our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, his team, and everyone who knew him.”
His producer, Babs, also paid tribute on social media, writing, “Rest in peace my brother, I love you.”
Werenoi first gained attention in 2021 when he released the song “Guadalajara” on YouTube, which quickly attracted hundreds of thousands of views. He went on to release three albums: Carré in 2023, Pyramide in 2024, and Diamant Noir in 2025. These works helped make him a leading figure in French rap.
Several French artists shared their condolences online. French-Malian pop star Aya Nakamura, who featured on Werenoi’s second album, wrote, “Rest in peace my dude. This news saddens me deeply. Courage to the loved ones, especially.”
Singer Pascal Obispo, who performed with Werenoi on piano during a 2023 Paris concert, told Le Parisien, “He made a difference with the quality of his songs, his melodies, and his punchlines.”
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