Busta Rhymes will be honored with the Global Icon Award at the 2024 MTV EMAs.
The hip-hop legend is also set to take to the stage at Co-Op Live arena in Manchester, England on Nov. 10 to perform a medley of his greatest hits, including the viral tune “Do The BusABus Pt.2.”
“I am beyond honored and grateful to receive the MTV EMA Global Icon Award,” The star — whose real name is Trevor George Smith Jr. — said. “This recognition is not only a celebration of my career but also of hip-hop culture. To be acknowledged on this global stage is a reminder that Hip-Hop has no boundaries — and neither do I! ‘Cause THE BLESSINGS DON’T STOP!”
Since releasing his debut solo album The Coming in 1996 — which boasted the hits “Woo-Hah!! Got You All in Check” and “It’s a Party” — the prolific rapper has released a further 10 studio albums, his most recent being 2023’s Blockbusta.
And his 12th outing, Dragon Season, is on the way on Nov. 29.
Busta — who started out as a member of the East Coast troupe Leaders of the New School — has been nominated for a total of 12 Grammy Awards and is regarded as one of the greatest hip-hop artists of all time.
Over the years, the Conglomerate label founder has collaborated with everyone from Dr. Dre and Janet Jackson to Kendrick Lamar, Eminem, Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg, Mary J. Blige and Mariah Carey to Dave Chappelle, Ozzy Osbourne and Chris Rock.
The EMAs will also see Pet Shop Boys perform a special performance with the Manchester Camerata.
The ’80s synth-pop duo — comprising Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe — will be bestowed with the Pop Pioneers Award as they mark 40 years in music at the awards show. The pair will also take to the stage alongside the acclaimed local orchestra.
VMAs-winning K-pop girl group LE SSERAFIM, “Water” hitmaker Tyla and Mexican superstar Peso Pluma were also added to the bill. They join “Beautiful Things” hitmaker Benson Boone, “Escapism” hitmaker RAYE, pop star Shawn Mendes, “Lose Control” hitmaker Teddy Swims, and rising rock group The Warning.
Taylor Swift leads with seven nods while Ariana Grande, Billie Eilish, Charli XCX and Sabrina Carpenter earned five nominations apiece.
Rita Ora hosts the ceremony.
The 2024 MTV EMAs will broadcast at 5 p.m. EDT Nov. 10 on MTV U.K., Channel 5 and Pluto TV, and will be available on demand on Paramount+ starting on Nov. 12.
