While looking forward to performing just last week, French rapper Werenoi ended up canceling the event. Although not uncommon for some artists to cancel a show, news broke that the rapper sadly passed away on May 17 at the age of 31. Gaining fame thanks to his hit song “Guadalajara”, the rapper quickly watched his stardom explode. Over the last few years, Werenoi solidified himself as a top rapper in the area, holding the No. 1 spot in album sales in France. With the rapper passing away, fans and his producer took a moment to honor his legacy. 

Sharing a post on Instagram, Werenoi’s producer, Babs, broke the news to fans, writing, “It is with immense sadness that we learned of Werenoi’s passing. All our thoughts are with his family, loved ones, his team, and everyone who knew him. May he rest in peace.” Adding to the comment from the producer, Werenoi’s fans also showered the late rapper with love, remembering his impact in rap music. 

Although outlets reported that Werenoi passed away in a hospital in Paris, the exact cause of death is still unknown. With the rapper deciding to keep his personal life somewhat private, fans were visibly shocked over the news. Just last month, the artist released the song “Titanic.” Bringing in over one million views, fans wrote, “Your album is a treat for the ears… simply brilliant… Greetings from Kapua in Germany.” Another comment included, “I am a fan of his music. 󠁧 Our time can be so short. It is scary.” 

Outside of fans paying their respects to Werenoi, stars like Aya Nakamura, who collaborated with the rapper on his album Pyramide in 2024, also took a moment to share her thoughts. “Rest in peace my dude. A news that saddens me and courage to the loved ones especially.” 

Another musician who worked alongside Werenoi in 2023, Pascal Obispo, highlighted the talents he brought to each song. Caring about every detail, Obispo said, “He made a difference for the quality of his songs, his melodies and his punchlines.” 

Releasing his last album, Diamant Noir, this year, Werenoi’s contributions to music are sure to not only entertain but inspire future artists.

(Photo by THIBAUD MORITZ/AFP via Getty Images)