Ino Casablanca: The Rising Star of French Rap Nominated for 2026 Victoires de la Musique

PARIS, 13 February 2026 – As the French music industry gathers tonight for the 41st Victoires de la Musique ceremony, all eyes are on Ino Casablanca. The 25-year-old French-Congolese artist has emerged as a frontrunner in the ‘Révélation masculine’ (Male Revelation) category, marking a meteoric rise for a performer who blends Mediterranean influences with contemporary Afrobeat and hyperpop.
A Fusion of Cultures and Sounds
Born in 2003, Ino Casablanca has quickly distinguished himself in the crowded French rap scene through what critics describe as “Mediterranean sauce.” His music is a vibrant crossroads of his Congolese heritage and North African influences, incorporating elements of Moroccan Chaâbi, Rai, and Reggada alongside modern dancehall and Latin rhythms. His breakout track, “Bissap du 20ème,” serves as a sonic manifesto for this dual-shore identity.
The artist’s rise is not merely digital; his live performances have become highly sought-after events. His upcoming show at La Cigale in Paris later this February has already sold out, and he is scheduled to appear at major festivals throughout the summer, including Marsatac in Marseille and Solidays at the Hippodrome de Longchamp.
Key Career Milestones and 2026 Schedule
| Event / Venue | Date |
|---|---|
| Victoires de la Musique Ceremony | 13 February 2026 |
| Festival Mythos (Rennes) | April 2026 |
| Les Nuits Botanique (Brussels) | 16 May 2026 |
| Parc Borély (Marseille) | 12 June 2026 |
| Club Soda (Montreal) | 16 June 2026 |
| Solidays Festival (Paris) | 26-28 June 2026 |
International Ambitions
While firmly rooted in the French scene, Ino Casablanca is already expanding his reach across the Atlantic. His scheduled performance at Club Soda in Montreal on 16 June 2026, as part of the Francos de Montréal, indicates a growing demand for his eclectic sound in the Francophone world beyond Europe. Industry insiders suggest that his nomination tonight, alongside fellow newcomers Sam Sauvage and L2B, cements his status as a defining voice of his generation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Ino Casablanca?
Ino Casablanca is a 25-year-old French-Congolese rapper and singer known for his eclectic musical style that mixes Afrobeat, hyperpop, and traditional North African sounds like Rai and Chaâbi.
What award is he nominated for?
He is nominated for ‘Révélation masculine’ (Male Revelation of the Year) at the 2026 Victoires de la Musique, the most prestigious awards in the French music industry.
Where can I see him perform in 2026?
Ino Casablanca is embarking on a major tour with confirmed dates in Paris, Marseille, Rennes, Brussels, and Montreal. He will also be a featured performer at the Solidays and Marsatac festivals this summer.
