Wyclef Jean mourns John Forté, influential Fugees collaborator, after his death at 50

In 2026, the music world has already lost several highly influential figures after the passing of the Grateful Dead's Bob Weir and the death of Black Midi co-founder Matt Kwasniewski-Kelvin. Tragically, that trend has now continued with another performer who was hugely influential having just passed away.

John Forté, Key Fugees Collaborator and Hip-Hop Figure, Dead at 50

On January 13th, 2026, The Associated Press reported that John Forté was found dead at 50 years old in his Chilmark, Massachusetts home, according to the police. A statement that was released by Chilmark Police Chief Sean Slavin revealed that Forté's death is being investigated by the state medical examiner's office. However, Slavin stated that there were no signs of foul play evident.

In 2000, Forté was charged with possession of liquid cocaine and drug trafficking after he was arrested at Newark International Airport. Sentenced to 14 years in prison, his sentence was commuted by President George W. Bush after seven years.

Described as a musical prodigy, Forté was born in New York City. An article published by the elite boarding school Phillips Exeter Academy revealed that Forté rose to first chair in the school's orchestra which performed at the Brooklyn Academy of Music. The academy also quoted the performer saying, “It’s hard for me to hear about songs and music as if it’s not the air that I breathe. Music is that critical to my existence, and in my life.” He later went on to attend the BRIT School in London, which is known for being dedicated to the performing arts.

John Forté Played a Pivotal Role in the Fugees and Earned Widespread Respect

Following John Forté's passing, Rolling Stonechronicled his music career. Best known for his work with the Fugees, Forté earned a Grammy nomination after co-writing and producing several tracks from their iconic album "The Score." Forté also appeared on songs from the album, like "Family Business," "Cowboys," and "Fu-Gee-La." Rolling Stone called "The Score" the 134th best album of all time in 2023. John Forté was also a member of the Refugee Camp All-Stars, released a solo album titled "Poly Sci," and featured on several Wyclef Jean’s songs, including "We Trying to Stay Alive."

Following Forté's passing Wyclef Jean expressed his grief on Instagram. "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 post also featured a video of the two artists performing together.

Long before his passing, Wyclef Jean had praised Forté's influence in interviews. In a 2020 UPROXX conversation, Jean said Forté played a pivotal role in his success: "John Forte produced my first demo tape... John Forte taught me how to rap on a mic." He also compared Forté's contributions to The Score to the work of a music icon: "John Forte to me, his participation in the Score was like a modern-day Miles Davis because he brought something."