John Forté

John Forté (born January 30, 1975) is an American rapper and record producer. Forté was born in Brownsville, Brooklyn, New York. He won a full scholarship to Phillips Exeter Academy in New Hampshire, where he graduated in 1993.

Forté began his professional music career when he was introduced to The Fugees by Lauryn Hill in the early 1990s. He co-wrote and produced two songs on their multi-platinum and Grammy-winning 1996 album, The Score. After the group broke up in 1997, Forté released his debut solo album, Poly Sci in 1998, which was produced by Wyclef Jean.

In 2000, Forté was arrested at Newark International Airport after accepting a briefcase containing $1.4 million worth of liquid cocaine. He was convicted and sentenced to the mandatory minimum 14 years after being found guilty, and incarcerated at FCI Loretto, a low-security federal prison in central Pennsylvania.

With the help of Senator Orrin Hatch, Forté's prison sentence was commuted by President George W. Bush on November 24, 2008.

Since leaving Fort Dix on December 22, 2008, Forté has recorded over 60 songs, played over 40 shows, engaged in philanthropic endeavors and released StyleFREE the EP.
Forté completed his new album, Water Light Sound in early 2010. He recently concluded a successful tour with K'Naan, Wale and Tabi Bonney. Forté is the subject of a documentary about his extraordinary career and his commutation from former President Bush.
A documentary is currently in production that chronicles the uncanny and unique life of Forté.

Unlike his debut, this album takes a more serious approach to music-making. The second album featured guest appearances by Herbie Hancock, Esthero and Tricky, and included a duet with Carly Simon.

Upon coming home, Forté released a body of work that provided social commentary combined with hope and inspiration.

Discography

- Poly Sci (1998)
- I, John (2002)
- Stylefree the EP (2009)
- Water Light Sound (Upcoming Release 2010)