Lauryn Hill performs during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Official Draw at John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on December 05, 2025 in Washington, DC.Mandel NGAN – Pool/Getty Images)

Lauryn Hill paid tribute to the late Fugees producer John Forté, who was found dead at 50 years old on Monday (Jan. 12).

Hill shared a heartfelt tribute to her late Fugees collaborate on Instagram on Wednesday (Jan. 14), which saw the Grammy-winner recall first meeting Forté, whom she remembers as a “gentle king,” and how they quickly became close friends.

“I can’t remember the exact moment I met John Forte or Forte as we used to call him, but I know we became fast friends very soon after. I loved him, my family loved him,” she shared. “I remember meeting his mom with her sweet voice for the first time and walking New York City streets with him in full youthful fascination mode. Our generation of hip hop was young and at the ascent of its epic rise. We were both there…participating and taking it all in, full of excitement and possibility. Forte was a gentlemen and a scholar with a strong pen, deep soul, and kind heart.”

Hill continued: “I hadn’t seen John in years before the last Mised-Fugees Tour, but he stepped on stage like no time had passed at all. We were in contact only a few weeks ago. This loss is unexpected and surreal and my heart aches… for his family, for his wife, for his children, for his friends, and for all of us who were blessed to know him. I Love you John. Rest in peace gentle King.”

Police revealed Forté’s passing on Tuesday (Jan. 13), after the Grammy-winning producer was found dead Monday afternoon in his Massachusetts home, according to Chilmark police. Officials did not reveal a cause of death as an investigation remains ongoing.

“Rest in peace to my refugee brother, John Forte,” Wyclef Jean relayed to Billboard following Forté’s passing. “One of the kindest legends I’ve ever met. A gentle giant with a warrior’s story. You carried pain with grace, and freedom with humility. Thank you for always flooding my life with music. Like clockwork at least once a month, there was a new track, a new idea, a new spark. Your creativity never stopped. I know the angels are welcoming you with open arms, to a place where you’ll play guitar, rap, and sing a brand-new song. We weep down here, but heaven smiles. And I can’t help but say it one more time, just like I did on our song: JOHN FORTE!!!!!!!!”

Forté was a New York City native who became renowned for his contributions to the Fugees’ The Score album as well as Wyclef’s The Carnival Grammy-nominated LP.

In addition to his work alongside the Fugees and the Refugee Camp All-Stars, Forté earned a solo entry on the Billboard Hot 100 with “Ninety Nine [Flash The Message]” reaching No. 59 in 1998. His Poly Sci album peaked at No. 84 on the Billboard 200 in 1998 as well.