​The Passing of a True Legend: Calbo (Ärsenik) Has Died

​Written by: Rasha Sensei

The French and European hip-hop world has been shaken by the news of the passing of one of the most influential voices in the history of the genre. Calbo (Calboni M’Bani), one half of the iconic duo Ärsenik, passed away on January 4th, 2026, at the age of 52, following a long and difficult battle with illness.

​The Journey from “L’enfer remonte à la surface” to the Top

​Although Calbo and his brother Lino first gained wider recognition in 1996 through their appearance on the legendary “Hostile Hip Hop” compilation, it was their first studio album, “Quelques gouttes suffisent…” (1998), that truly changed the game. This debut album, which reached double-gold status, became a cornerstone of French hardcore rap thanks to its brutally honest lyrics and top-tier production.

​Their second album, “Quelque chose a survécu…” (2002), only solidified their dominance, delivering hits like “P.O.I.S.O.N.” and “Regarde le monde”, proving that their lyrical sharpness never faded.

​Cultural Impact and the “Lacoste” Era

​Calbo was much more than just a rapper; he was an architect of style. Together with Ärsenik, he transformed the Lacoste brand into a symbol of street prestige and an identity for the youth of the banlieues. Today, even the brand itself officially paid its respects, acknowledging his immense influence on the intersection of fashion and the streets.

​Beyond his work with Ärsenik, he was a key part of the “Bisso Na Bisso” project, fusing rap with his Congolese roots, and remained active until the very end as a mentor to younger generations through various cultural initiatives.

A Lasting Legacy

​Calbo leaves behind a body of work that will be studied by generations to come. His final solo EP, Quelques gouttes de plus (2022), served as a reminder that his lyrical edge remained intact decades after he first started.

​Rest in peace, Calbo. Your “fist of words” (Boxe avec les mots) will echo forever.