Hip-Hop Community Mourns the Loss of John Forté, Fugees Collaborator

John Forté's journey in music was anything but ordinary. Born in Brooklyn in 1975, he initially honed his skills as a classical violinist, even leading a youth orchestra. However, his passion for hip-hop, jazz, and soul led him down a different path. A chance encounter at a Gang Starr recording session sparked his interest in beatmaking, and he quickly immersed himself in the world of rap.

After attending Phillips Exeter Academy on a scholarship, he went to NYU as a music business major. He soon dropped out of college to work in A&R at Rawkus Records, where he played a key role in introducing Talib Kweli to the label. Kweli would later return the favor, releasing Forté's 2020 album, Riddem Drive, on his Javotti label.

Forté's career took off after befriending Lauryn Hill. His contributions to the Fugees' iconic album, The Score, including vocals and production on tracks like "Family Business" and "Cowboys," earned him a Grammy nomination and cemented his place in hip-hop history. He also appeared on Wyclef Jean's The Carnival.

Despite his success, Forté faced personal struggles. A period of depression led to his arrest in 2000 on drug charges, resulting in a 14-year prison sentence. However, the support of friends like Carly Simon, who campaigned for his release, ultimately led to President George W. Bush commuting his sentence after nearly seven years.

Upon his release, Forté returned to music with renewed purpose. He continued to release albums, collaborate with other artists, and use his platform to address social issues. His 2021 album, Vessels, Angels & Ancestors, was a powerful response to the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery.

Lauryn Hill posted a touching tribute on Instagram, writing, “Forté was a gentlemen and a scholar with a strong pen, deep soul, and kind heart.”

Forté also scored the documentary Kerouac's Road: The Beat of a Nation, which premiered at Tribeca last year. He is survived by his wife, photographer Lara Fuller, and their two children.

John Forté's legacy will be remembered for his musical talent, his resilience in the face of adversity, and his commitment to using his art to inspire positive change.