All about Werenoi, France’s best-selling rapper in recent years, who has died at 31

French rapper Werenoi, one of the country’s most successful music artists in recent years, has died at the age of 31, his producer and record label confirmed.

Werenoi, whose real name was Jeremy Bana Owona, topped album sales charts in both 2023 and 2024, according to the National Union of the Phonographic Industry (SNEP), which tracks in-store, online, and streaming sales.

“It’s with immense sadness that we’ve learned of Werenoi’s passing,” his record label Believe posted on Instagram. “All our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, his team, and everyone who knew him.”


His producer Babs shared a heartfelt tribute on X (formerly Twitter):

“Rest in peace my brother, I love you.”

According to French media reports, Werenoi passed away early Saturday at a Paris hospital. The cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.

Werenoi rose to prominence in 2021 after uploading his breakout track “Guadalajara” on YouTube, where it quickly amassed hundreds of thousands of views.

He went on to release three full-length albums:

Carré (2023)

Pyramide (2024)

Diamant Noir (released just last month)

These projects helped cement his status as a leading voice in French rap, known for his lyrical depth, distinctive melodies, and raw storytelling.

Tributes have poured in from across the French music scene.
Pop star Aya Nakamura, who collaborated with Werenoi on his second album, wrote:

“Rest in peace, my dude. This news saddens me deeply. Sending strength to his loved ones.”

Veteran French singer Pascal Obispo, who once accompanied Werenoi on piano during a 2023 Paris concert, told Le Parisien:

“He stood out for the quality of his songs, his melodies, and his punchlines.”