Grammy Nominee John Forté Dies at 50 in Massachusetts
John Forté, the celebrated Grammy-nominated musician, has passed away at the age of 50. His body was discovered on Monday afternoon in his residence located in Chilmark, Massachusetts. According to Chilmark Police Chief Sean Slavin, there were no indications of foul play or an obvious cause of death. The investigation is currently being conducted by the state medical examiner’s office.
Musical Legacy of John Forté
Originally from New York City, Forté was recognized as a musical prodigy. He gained fame in his early twenties, notably as a contributor to the Fugees’ award-winning album, “The Score.” He also played a significant role in Wyclef Jean’s Grammy-nominated project, “The Carnival.”
Solo Career and Collaborations
In addition to his collaborative efforts, John Forté released several solo albums, including:
- Poly Sci
- I John
His work featured collaborations with well-known artists, such as Carly Simon. Simon’s son, Ben Taylor, was a close friend of Forté’s, further highlighting his connections within the music industry.
Legal Issues and Imprisonment
In 2000, Forté faced significant legal troubles. He was arrested at Newark International Airport on charges related to possession of liquid cocaine and drug trafficking. Initially sentenced to 14 years in prison, his term was eventually commuted by President George W. Bush after serving seven years. Carly Simon was among numerous public figures who advocated for his early release.
Survived by Family
John Forté is survived by his wife, Lara Fuller, a talented photographer, and their two children. His untimely death marks a significant loss for the music community and his family.
