CHILMARK, MASSACHUSETTS – John Forté, the acclaimed Grammy-nominated musician best known for his work with the Fugees, has passed away at the age of 50. Forté was found deceased on Monday, January 12, in his home in Chilmark on Martha’s Vineyard, according to MV Times and the Chilmark Police Department.

Authorities reported that a neighbor discovered Forté unresponsive on his kitchen floor at around 2:25 p.m. Police pronounced him dead at the scene, and no foul play is suspected. The cause of death has not yet been determined.

“It is such a small community, this death hits close to home. It’s the upside and the downside to living on such a small Island,” Chilmark Police Chief Sean Slavin told MV Times.

Early Life and Musical Journey

Born and raised in Brooklyn, New York, Forté began his musical journey at a young age, playing the violin and attending Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire. He later enrolled at New York University, where he shared a dorm room with rapper Talib Kweli. Forté left college to pursue music full-time, joining the underground hip-hop label Rawkus Records.

In the early 1990s, Forté was introduced to the Fugees by Lauryn Hill, leading to his collaboration on the group’s 1996 Grammy-winning album, The Score. He co-wrote and produced several tracks, earning his first Grammy nomination at just 21 years old.

Forté also toured with the Fugees and contributed to Wyclef Jean’s debut solo album, The Carnival, released in 1997. He launched his own solo career in 1998 with the album Poly Sci, produced by Jean.

Legal Troubles and Redemption

In 2000, Forté faced a significant setback when he was arrested at Newark International Airport for possession and intent to distribute liquid cocaine. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison under mandatory minimum drug laws.

While incarcerated at a low-security prison in Pennsylvania, Forté continued his music career, releasing his second album, I John, which included collaborations with Carly Simon and Herbie Hancock. The severity of his sentence drew national attention, with Simon and her son Ben Taylor advocating for his early release.

President George W. Bush ultimately commuted Forté’s sentence in November 2008, and he was released four weeks later.

Later Career and Life

After his release, Forté remained a prominent figure in the music world. He lived in Martha’s Vineyard with his wife and two children, contributing to the local arts scene and producing music for films and documentaries, including the Breonna Taylor documentary Bree Wayy: Promise, Witness, Remembrance.

In 2021, Forté released his latest album, Vessels, Angels & Ancestors, which he described as a project free from self-doubt, allowing him to “ride downstream with the experience,” according to Billboard.

Legacy

John Forté’s career was marked by remarkable highs and challenging lows, from Grammy nominations and collaborations with the Fugees to overcoming a lengthy prison sentence. His music and artistry left a lasting impact on hip-hop and the broader music industry.

Forté is survived by his wife and two children. His work continues to inspire both fans and fellow musicians worldwide.