John Forté, a notable figure in the hip-hop community, passed away unexpectedly at his home in Massachusetts on January 13, 2024. He was found unresponsive in his kitchen by a neighbor on January 12, prompting a call to authorities. Despite attempts to revive him, he was pronounced dead at the scene at the age of 50. Forté is survived by his wife, photographer Lara Fuller, and their two children. As of now, the family has not released an official statement regarding his passing.
Friends and collaborators have expressed their grief and shared their memories of Forté. Among them, Wyclef Jean and Pras took to social media to honor the late artist, celebrating his contributions to music and their personal connections with him.
Tributes from Fellow Artists
Pras paid tribute to Forté on his Instagram Story, stating, “John was more than just a collaborator — he was family. We came up together in an era when hip-hop was about pushing boundaries, telling real stories, and creating something that mattered.” He emphasized Forté’s talent, noting, “His talent as a writer, producer, and artist was undeniable.” Pras reflected on the impact of Forté’s work, stating, “Anyone who heard his work knew they were in the presence of someone special. I’m glad I got to share the stage with him one last time. The hip-hop community has lost a real one. I’ve lost a brother. Rest in power, John. Your music and your spirit live on.”
Wyclef Jean shared a heartfelt video on Instagram that featured a performance with Forté. He captioned the post, “This one hurts. My brother @john_forte has joined the Angels. Legends never die. Look at the smile. R.I.P my Refugee brother.” The emotional tribute underscores the deep bond forged between the artists over the years.
Health Concerns and Investigation
At present, the cause of Forté’s death remains undisclosed. Reports indicate that he had been managing a medical condition, taking medication to control seizures following a health scare that required hospitalization approximately a year ago. Authorities have stated that no foul play is suspected in his passing.
Forté was known for his innovative contributions to hip-hop, both as a solo artist and as part of the group The Fugees. His influence in the genre and impact on those around him resonate deeply within the music community. Friends and fans alike are mourning the loss of a talented artist whose work will continue to inspire future generations.
