Lyon, France — The music world mourns the sudden loss of French rapper Werenoi, born Jérémy Bana Owona, who died at the age of 31 on May 17, just hours before a scheduled performance at the Azar Club. His passing followed a cardiac arrest, which led to his hospitalization at Pitié-Salpêtrière Hospital in Paris. Despite intensive medical treatment, he succumbed to his condition in the early morning hours.
Werenoi’s producer confirmed the tragic news via social media, expressing heartfelt sorrow and love for his late friend. Fans had been eagerly anticipating his performance at the Azar Club, part of a series highlighting up-and-coming artists, making the news even more impactful in the local music scene.
Leading up to his death, there were reports of health concerns. Sources indicated that Werenoi had experienced cardio-respiratory issues days prior, with rumors surfacing after he missed an appearance on May 16. His absence from the stage was a troubling sign for those close to him and his fanbase.
A rising star in French rap, Werenoi recently celebrated significant accolades, including winning Album of the Year for “Pyramide 2” at the Les Flammes awards. He did not attend the ceremony, instead sending a video message showcasing a medical cast on his arm, attributing his absence to a serious injury.
Born on January 30, 1994, in Melun, France, Werenoi grew up in Montreuil, embracing his Cameroonian heritage while keeping his personal life largely private. In a past interview, he expressed his astonishment at his success, crediting it to hard work and dedication.
Though relatively new to the mainstream music landscape, Werenoi made a substantial impact. He topped the National Union of Phonographic Industry’s sales chart as the best-selling artist in France for two consecutive years. His breakthrough came with the viral YouTube hit “Guadalajara,” which catapulted him into the limelight.
His debut EP, “Telegram,” released in June 2022, showcased his distinct style and lyrical prowess, which was further highlighted in his debut album “Carré.” Released in March 2023, the album quickly gained traction, yielding impressive sales and collaborations with notable artists in the genre.
In February 2024, his follow-up album, “Pyramide,” continued to solidify his standing in the music community, featuring contributions from significant figures in rap. His final work, the “Diamant Noir” album, released in April 2025, topped the French charts and underscored his evolving artistry.
At the time of his passing, Werenoi had amassed over 6.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, with popular tracks such as “Scarface,” “Solitaire,” and “Ciao,” featuring fellow artist Ninho. His music resonated deeply with fans, many of whom took to social media to express their grief and admiration for his work.
The French music industry has expressed an outpouring of tributes following his death. Artists and radio hosts have shared their condolences, remarking on his talent and the profound void left by his absence. According to industry insiders, Werenoi’s contributions to music had only begun to surface, leaving a rich legacy that will be felt for years to come.
Plans for upcoming performances, including a highly anticipated show at Paris La Défense Arena in January 2026, have been canceled in light of his untimely death. The community reflects on the brevity of life and the importance of cherishing every moment.
As the music scene continues to grapple with this loss, Werenoi’s impact and legacy will remain a poignant reminder of the creativity and passion that define artistry. His friends, collaborators, and fans hope to carry his spirit and inspiration forward, ensuring that his voice is not forgotten.