John Forté, the Grammy-nominated artist and producer known for his work with the Fugees and the Refugee Camp All-Stars, was found dead Monday in his home in Chilmark, Massachusetts. He was 50.
Forté’s sudden death stunned fans and musicians worldwide, leaving many to reflect on a life that bridged influential hip-hop milestones and personal resilience. Authorities confirmed there were no immediate signs of foul play. The Massachusetts State Medical Examiner’s Office is investigating the cause of death.
Found Unresponsive at Home
Chilmark Police Chief Sean Slavin said a neighbor discovered Forté unresponsive in his kitchen Monday afternoon. Officers arrived on the scene after a 911 call and pronounced him dead. “We do not suspect foul play,” Slavin said. “There is no readily apparent cause of death.”
Forté had lived in the quiet community on Martha’s Vineyard for over a decade. Residents and fellow artists remember him as a creative presence who always made time to support local arts. “He brought a soulful energy to everything he did,” said one neighbor, who declined to be named.
Born in Brooklyn on Jan. 30, 1975, Forté began his musical journey at a young age. He picked up the violin in elementary school, a choice he later called pivotal in shaping his artistic path.
In the early 1990s, Forté became involved with Rawkus Records before crossing paths with the Fugees. Lauryn Hill invited him to contribute to the group’s breakthrough album The Score, which became a multi-platinum, Grammy-winning release. He co-wrote and produced tracks including “Cowboys” and “Family Business,” helping shape the sound that defined mid-1990s hip-hop.
Forté later worked with Fugees member Wyclef Jean and released his own solo albums, such as Poly Sci and I, John. His work often blended sharp lyricism with musical versatility. “John’s voice was unmistakable,” said Wyclef Jean in a social media tribute. “He was more than a collaborator—he was family.”
Forté’s life was not without challenges. In 2000, he was arrested at Newark International Airport on drug possession and trafficking charges. He was sentenced to 14 years in prison, although his sentence was commuted after seven years following advocacy from public figures including singer Carly Simon.
Despite this setback, Forté continued to create music and returned to the spotlight with renewed purpose. He also composed scores for documentaries and supported community projects, often speaking about the redemptive power of art.
He is survived by his wife, photographer Lara Fuller, and their two children. Friends say his legacy will endure in the music he helped create and the lives he touched.