Remembering Werenoi: France’s Beloved Rapper
The music world is in mourning as one of France’s most beloved rappers, Werenoi, passed away at the age of 31. His record label, Believe, confirmed the heartbreaking news on Saturday.
Known as Jeremy Bana Owana, Werenoi breathed his last at La Pitié-Salpêtrière hospital in Paris. While the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed, reports suggest that he may have suffered a heart attack.
Werenoi, of Cameroonian descent, grew up in the suburbs of Paris and quickly rose to fame with his breakout single “Guadalajara” in 2021. His musical journey was marked by success, with three out of his four studio albums reaching the top spot on the French charts. His latest album, “Diamant Noir,” released just a month before his untimely demise, was met with critical acclaim.
Aside from his solo success, Werenoi was also known for his collaborations with top artists in the Francophone and international music scene. His work with artists like Aya Nakamura, Damso, and American rappers Gunna and Lil Tjay showcased his versatility and talent.
Tragically, Werenoi’s passing came on the night he was scheduled to perform in Lyon. Just days before his death, he had won Album of the Year for “Pyramide 2” at “Les Flammes,” a prestigious award show honoring Black music in France.
Following his death, tributes poured in from across the music industry. Artists like Aya Nakamura, Lil Tjay, and Gims, along with many others, expressed their grief over the loss of a talented artist and friend.
