Lauryn Hill has publicly mourned the loss of John Forté, an artist, songwriter, and contributor to the Fugees, who died Monday at the age of 50.
A Collaborative Spirit Remembered
Hill shared her grief in an Instagram post, recalling a fast friendship with Forté. She remembered a shared fascination with New York City and the excitement of a hip-hop scene “at the ascent of its epic rise” during the 1990s. Hill described Forté as a “gentleman and a scholar” possessing a unique eloquence for the time.
Forté’s involvement with the Fugees began after he met Wyclef and Pras as an aspiring rapper, joining the Refugee Camp All-Stars. Hill reminisced about a particularly vibrant summer spent with Forté, along with Chuck and Edwin, immersed in the music and fashion of New York City.
Hill noted that Forté recently appeared at the Newark stop of the 2023 Miseducation of Lauryn Hill Anniversary Tour, stepping on stage “like no time had passed at all.” She shared that they had been in contact just weeks before his unexpected death.
Wyclef Jean also publicly mourned Forté’s passing on Instagram, sharing a video of the two performing together and calling him a “Refugee brother.”
Frequently Asked Questions
How did Lauryn Hill describe John Forté?
Lauryn Hill described John Forté as a “gentleman and a scholar with a strong pen, deep soul, and kind heart,” noting his unique vocabulary and fluency. She also remembered him as a “gentle soul.”
What was John Forté’s role with the Fugees?
John Forté joined the Refugee Camp All-Stars and later contributed to the Fugees’ album The Score, appearing on songs like “Cowboys,” “Family Business,” and “Fu-Gee-La.”
When did Lauryn Hill and John Forté last see each other?
Lauryn Hill stated that she hadn’t seen John Forté in years before the 2023 Miseducation of Lauryn Hill Anniversary Tour, where he made an appearance at the Newark stop. They were also in contact a few weeks prior to his death.
As the music community reflects on Forté’s life and contributions, it remains to be seen how his passing will influence future collaborations and creative endeavors within the hip-hop genre.
