Prince Waly, influential French rapper, dies at 34

French rapper Prince Waly, born Moussa Magassa, has died at the age of 34 following a long battle with illness. His death was announced by his family and his label, I See Colors, on Sunday, October 4.

Magassa had been fighting health issues for eight years. In 2019, he was diagnosed with a thymic tumor, which temporarily caused him to lose his voice. Although he announced a remission in late 2021 and released his first solo album, Moussa, in 2022, his health declined again recently. In September, he revealed he was suffering from pemphigus paranéoplasique, a rare and aggressive autoimmune disease that causes painful lesions on the skin and mucous membranes.

Originally from Montreuil, the artist rose to prominence through the collective Big Budha Cheez before establishing a solo career. He was known for tracks such as ‘Balotelli’ and for his ability to integrate his personal struggles into his music. He is survived by his wife, the singer Enchantée Julia.