The Death of French Rapper Werenoi

The Death of French Rapper Werenoi, Aged 31, at the Height of His Fame

French rapper Werenoi, aged 31, has tragically passed away at the pinnacle of his career. Revered in the French music scene, he leaves behind a powerful legacy and heartbroken fans.

A Meteoric Rise to Stardom

The French music industry has suffered an immeasurable loss with the untimely death of Werenoi on May 17, 2025. Born Jérémy Bana Owana in Melun and raised in Montreuil, the 31-year-old rapper was more than a musical sensation he was a cultural force. His debut album Carré (2023) topped charts and made him a household name. Follow-up albums Pyramide (2024) and Diamant Noir (April 2025) cemented his superstar status, the latter selling over 53,000 copies in its first week.

Werenoi’s signature sound blended raw street poetry with haunting samples and melodic hooks. Tracks like “Scarface,” “Solitaire,” “Chemin d’or,” and “Ciao” (with Ninho) were not just hits they were anthems. With over 6.7 million monthly Spotify listeners, his reach and impact were undeniable.

In 2024, he won Album of the Year at Les Flammes, despite recovering from an arm injury. Just days before his death, Werenoi was again honored with Best Album at the 2025 Flammes ceremony. He was at the top of his game, both artistically and commercially.

The Tragic Circumstances

On May 16, Werenoi was rushed to Paris’s Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital after experiencing cardio-respiratory arrest. Medical teams fought to stabilize him, but he suffered a second cardiac event and passed away early May 17. Rumors point to complications from hyperkalemia and possibly a hidden immune disorder like CVID. These claims, however, remain unverified by his family or medical staff.

What makes the tragedy worse is the leak of Werenoi’s medical details. French gossip blogger AQABABE published sensitive health information, triggering legal and ethical outrage. Authorities have launched an investigation into the breach, highlighting the disturbing trend of privacy violations even in moments of profound grief.

Tributes Pour In

Werenoi’s producer Babs broke the news on X (formerly Twitter): “Rest in peace, my brother, I love you!!!” The rap world responded with an outpouring of love and sorrow. SCH posted a dove emoji alongside a photo of the late artist. Dosseh reflected emotionally, calling the death “the greatest of reminders.”

Pascal Obispo, who collaborated with Werenoi in 2023, lamented, “31 years old! He was a good guy, so talented, with so much left to do.” Political figures joined the chorus of mourning. Montreuil mayor Patrick Bessac praised the rapper’s cultural legacy, while MP Antoine Léaument also paid respects. Even footballer Sacha Boey posted, “You had everything anyone could want in this life, and today, you’re no longer here.”

Spotify France summed it up best: “In just five years, Werenoi left an indelible mark on French music.”

A Legacy That Endures

Werenoi’s music reflected the life and trials of his Montreuil roots. Through PGP Records, which he launched during the 2020 pandemic, he embodied independence and innovation. His stage name a street nickname was symbolic of his deep ties to his community and a commitment to authenticity.

Despite his growing fame, Werenoi remained grounded and connected to fans. His last Instagram post from May 1, 2025, is now a digital memorial, flooded with messages of love, shock, and gratitude.

His work and words will echo beyond his years, inspiring both listeners and emerging artists. Rest in peace, Jérémy Bana Owana a voice that will never be silenced.

Sources: Le Monde, BFMTV, Le Parisien, Charts in France, Sudinfo, and posts on X.

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🏷️ Tags: Werenoi, French rap, Jérémy Bana Owana, Diamant Noir, French music news, Les Flammes, Spotify France, Montreuil rapper, PGP Records, French hip-hop