Home / Arts and Entertainment / Fugees Producer John Forté Dies at 50
Fugees Producer John Forté Dies at 50
14 Jan
Summary
- Rapper and producer John Forté, known for Fugees collaborations, died at 50.
- Forté's career was significantly impacted by a 2000 drug conviction.
- He was honored by Carly Simon and Orrin Hatch for his advocacy.
- His most notable work included contributions to Fugees' 'The Score'.
John Forté, a celebrated rapper and producer renowned for his work with the Fugees, died Monday at his home in Chilmark, Massachusetts. He was 50 years old. While the cause of death is under investigation, authorities have stated there is no apparent foul play. Forté's career trajectory was significantly altered in 2000 when he was arrested and subsequently convicted for drug-related charges, leading to a 14-year prison sentence.
Forté's contributions were integral to the Fugees' success, particularly on their second and final album, 'The Score' (1996). He co-wrote and produced tracks like 'Family Business' and was a credited producer on other album cuts. His solo career debut, 'Poly Sci,' was released in 1998, followed by 'I, John' in 2002 while he was incarcerated. Friends, including singer Carly Simon and the late Senator Orrin Hatch, advocated for his release.
Following his commutation in November 2008, Forté resumed his musical endeavors, releasing several albums in the 2010s and early 2020s, with his most recent being 'Vessels, Angels & Ancestors' in 2021. He also penned the Brooklyn Nets' anthem 'Brooklyn: Something To Lean On.' Forté is survived by his wife, Lara Fuller, and their two children.
