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A Memorable Performance By Kayla Zenk, Courtesy of Kent News

The Kent School community recently welcomed a very special guest for the Performing Arts and Lecture Series. Brooklyn-born, Grammy-nominated musician and producer, John Forté, known for his work with the multi-platinum group, The Fugees, shared his music, his story, and his message of hope and making the most of second chances.

Forté was born in Brownsville, Brooklyn, at the height of the drug epidemic in the 1980s. With the support of his mother, Forté challenged his mind through reading and music at a school for the specially gifted, escaping the bad influences around him. A musical prodigy and intelligent student, Forté was awarded a full scholarship to Phillips Exeter Academy and attended New York University until his career in the music industry began to flourish. While working as an A&R executive for Rawkus Entertainment, Forté met Lauryn Hill and began working closely with The Fugees. He helped compose and produce several songs on their Grammy awarded and multi-platinum album, The Score. From there, Forté had the opportunity to tour with the prominent band and attend red-carpet events and renowned music festivals.

It was at this point, in between telling his story and playing music, that Forté told the audience that he felt a void in his life. Although he felt that he was living his dream, something was missing. After deciding to quit the band, he went on to record two solo albums, Polysci and I, John. After pouring the remains of his money and time into the album, Polysci, which ultimately reaped little revenue despite its critical acclaim, Forté was ready to produce another album though he did not have the financial means to do so. While watching his friend perform one night, Forté met a man that was willing to put up money for the production of his new album in return for Forté’s services. Out of desperation, Forté said he would work for the man. He did not know exactly what his job entailed, although he suspected it involved illegal activities, so Forté continued to work in order earn money, against his better judgment.   
In 2000, Forté was arrested at Newark International Airport for accepting a briefcase containing $1.4 million worth of liquid cocaine. He was charged with possession and the intent to distribute. Forté was convicted and sentenced to 14 years in Federal Prison. Many people, including the legendary Carly Simon, fought on Forté’s behalf, believing he did not receive a fair trial and  that he was not fully aware of what he actually possessed and was not in control of the situation, but merely a pawn. After many attempts to get his sentence repealed, Forté decided to make the best of his situation and accept his fate. While in prison, Forté continued to read and perform music. It was in jail that he taught himself to play the guitar and engaged in many philanthropic endeavors. While serving time, Forté taught many classes on music theory, song writing, and global debate. One of his most shocking endeavors was applying to and being accepted by the prestigious London School of Economics. In his jail cell, Forté taught himself and did all of the assignments off of a given syllabus for the college, at times being scolded for having so many books with him. Even though he was in the worst of situations, Forté still remained active by furthering his education and giving back to the prison community.

Few understand seizing opportunities and second chances better than Forté. On November 24, 2008, President George W. Bush granted the petition for commutation submitted by the 33 year-old Forté. After being released from Fort Dix on December 22, 2008, Forté has resumed his career by recording in the studio, writing a memoir, and serving as the inspiration for a feature-length documentary film. He has already created two new albums, one to be released this year. Recently, his work was featured throughout the Sundance Film Festival, and he just concluded a successful tour with K'Naan, Wale and Tabi Bonney. Through song and performance, Forté hopes to shed light on the importance of education and the issues facing our youth. His newest adventure consists of a nine week journey of discovery, musical composition and performance tour throughout Russia.

Forté’s story offered the Kent community a sense of inspiration and motivation. His performance was designed to teach students to make the best of a situation and to never stop bettering themselves. His message was well received, as highlighted by the 30 minute question and answer session, where the student body picked the mind of the talented musician. Ultimately, Forté’s drive, tenacity, and philanthropic efforts helped him receive a second chance and he is truly a great figure to look up to.