Jamaican-American hip-hop legend Busta Rhymes cemented his place as a pioneer in the genre on Sunday, September 7, when he became the first recipient of the Rock the Bells Visionary Award at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs).
The award, presented by fellow hip-hop trailblazer LL Cool J, recognized the 53-year-old rapper’s groundbreaking music career, cultural impact, and creative innovation. “Next time you take 35 years to get me one of these, you’re gonna let me speak as long as I like!” Busta joked while accepting the golden Moonperson, before crediting LL with inspiring him to write his first rhyme.
Born Trevor George Smith Jr. in Brooklyn to Jamaican immigrants, Busta delivered a fiery performance at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, before accepting the honor. Dressed in red leather and backed by longtime hype man Spliff Star, he powered through a medley of hits, including Pass the Courvoisier Part II, Touch It (Remix), Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Can See, and Scenario, the 1992 A Tribe Called Quest track that first showcased his distinctive style.
He was joined on stage by Joyner Lucas, Papoose, and rising star GloRilla, bridging generations of hip-hop and underscoring his enduring influence.
The Rock the Bells Visionary Award celebrates artists whose creativity reshapes culture, something Busta has done for more than three decades. From kaleidoscopic music videos to patois-infused rhymes and reggae-inspired beats, his Jamaican heritage has remained central to his artistry.
Busta also used the moment to honor Ananda Lewis, the beloved MTV VJ who died earlier this year after battling stage 4 breast cancer. “She loved us, loved the culture, and she lifted us up,” he said.
The recognition comes on the heels of another career milestone: in August, Busta Rhymes was immortalized on the Hollywood Walk of Fame with the unveiling of star number 2,818.
