French Rapper Werenoi Dies at 31, Just Before Live Performance

French rapper Werenoi, born Jeremy Bana Owana, died at 31 from cardiac arrest just hours before a scheduled performance at Azar Club in Lyon on May 17. He was hospitalized on Friday night and passed away early Saturday morning at Paris’ Pitie-Salpetriere Hospital.

Though no official family statement has been released, tributes quickly flooded social media. Spotify France wrote, “Werenoi left us last night,” adding, “In just five years, the Montreuil rapper left a lasting mark on rap and French music.” Music producer Babs said, “Rest in peace my brother I love you!!!”