Werenoi dead: French rapper dies age 31 hours before concert as tributes pour in

French rapper Werenoi has died at the age of 31, hours before he was due to perform a concert, local media reports. Werenoi, whose real name is Jeremy Bana Owana, was confirmed to have died by the artist's producer Babs.

He wrote on X: "Rest in peace my brother I love you!!!" French music news outlet chartsinfrance.net reported the rapper was hospitalised after going into cardio-respiratory arrest.

Owana was admitted into intensive care, but sadly died in the early hours of Saturday morning. Relatives and industry figures, including Fred Musa (Skyrock) have shared tributes to the rapper.

Radio host Musa wrote on X: "My condolences to his loved ones..." He shared Werenoi's producer's post.

The star won Album of the Year at French music awards Les Flammes in 2024. He didn't appear in person to accept his award, instead sending a video message of himself.

He could be seen with a cast on his arm. He told fans he had been the victim of a "serious injury", adding: "It's just postponed, we'll see you soon."

Werenoi, who boasts more than 6.7 million monthly listeners on Spotify, went on to release a number of popular tracks. They include Scarface, Solitaire, Laboratoire, Chemin d'or and Ciao featuring Ninho.

He also had the best-selling record in France in 2023, with the album Carre. He also achieved success in 2024 with Pyramide.

The rapper, of Cameroonian descent, last shared a video on on May 1. Fans have flocked to his most recent post to share their devastation.

One wrote: "Rest in peace the goat one of the best gone too soon courage to the family." Another added: "It reminds us that all this money, this life, this luxury - well the day we are no longer there is nothing, let's make the most of life may God protect you all."

Another fan shared their thoughts, writing: "My sincere condolences, may his soul rest in peace." Someone else wrote: "Condolences, thank you for your work, what you have offered us has been sublime over the past few years, thank you for everything."

Werenoi was due to play at Azar Club in Lyon, France tonight. The event description read: "French rap's number one, Werenoi, is coming to the Azar Club in Lyon for an exclusive showcase on Saturday, May 17th.

"Werenoi has just released his new album, and for this first edition of JACKPOT, you'll be among the very first to experience it live. A unique evening, designed to make an impression, in one of the most iconic clubs on the Lyon scene."

Follow Mirror Celebs on , , , , , and .

READ MORE: