Not everyone is fortunate enough to be pardoned by the President of the United States after serving 10 years in prison and immediately bounce back. But it looks like John Forte isn't letting his past keep him from moving forward. The singer/producer recently released a new song titled 'Life Has Just Begun' and will perform for the first time in almost eight years at Talib Kweli's South By Southwest (SXSW) Blacksmith Records Showcase on March 19.

In addition to returning to the music scene, Forte has also scored a gig for 'In Arms Reach,' a program committed to promoting a positive environment for children of incarcerated parents and at-risk youth. And starting March 31, he will teach a 12 week music course to students 12-15 years old at The City College of New York.

John Forte's career highlights include producing and co-writing for The Fugees on their multi-platinum album 'The Score' and releasing two solo albums 'I, John' and 'PolySci.' According to a recent report he is also said to be working on a new album.