Busta Rhymes thanked LL Cool J and his mother as he received the Global Icon gong at the MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs) on Sunday, Nov. 10. The prestigious award ceremony has recognized numerous influential artists since its inception in 1994, with Busta joining an elite group of honorees.
The 52-year-old rap star, whose real name is Trevor George Smith Jr., admitted that he was thrilled to win the Icon award, after “34 years of professionally recording.” Throughout his career, Busta has released nine studio albums, earning multiple platinum certifications and collaborating with over 100 artists across genres.
“This is my first time here,” Busta said, speaking on stage at Co-op Live in Manchester, England. “I’ve never got an award from MTV before. … Thirty-four years of professionally recording, this is the first time I’m getting an award from MTV. It feels … incredible.”
The MTV EMAs have been celebrating musical excellence since 1994, featuring performances from over 500 artists throughout its history.
Busta thanked his mother, Geraldine Green, who he called his best friend, and fellow rap icon LL Cool J during his acceptance speech. Their relationship spans decades, with LL Cool J having mentored numerous artists throughout his career, including Busta Rhymes during his early days in the industry.
The ‘Touch It’ hitmaker admitted that LL, 56 — who also attended the ceremony in Manchester — inspired him to pursue a career as a rapper. LL Cool J’s influence on hip-hop culture cannot be understated, with over 13 studio albums and numerous accolades, including two Grammy Awards.
“I want to salute my brother LL Cool J,” Busta said. “Everything that I aspired to be, that man planted that seed.” This acknowledgment highlights the importance of mentorship in hip-hop, a tradition that has helped shape countless careers in the industry.
What’s more, Busta suggested that his “generation” of rappers will prove to be trailblazers for the genre. The golden era of hip-hop, which Busta emerged from, has influenced multiple generations of artists and continues to shape modern music.
The New York-born star insisted that he doesn’t have any plans to retire from the music business. His dedication to the craft has resulted in over 50 million records sold worldwide and numerous chart-topping hits across four decades.
“You better believe that you will see me and the generation that I come from become the first James Browns and Mick Jaggers of this rap s—,” said Busta, who starred in the rap group Leaders of the New School in the 1980s, before finding success as a solo artist. “Because I am never going to stop.”
Leaders of the New School released two influential albums before disbanding, paving the way for Busta’s successful solo career.
Busta previously described winning the award as a “celebration” of hip-hop culture. The Global Icon Award has been presented to only a select few artists since its introduction, making it one of the most prestigious honors in the industry.
“I am beyond honored and grateful to receive the MTV EMA Global Icon Award,” Busta said.
His performance featured hits spanning his entire career, showcasing his versatility and longevity in the music industry.
“This recognition is not only a celebration of my career but also of hip-hop culture,” said the rapper, who performed a medley of his songs after receiving his award. “To be acknowledged on this global stage is a reminder that hip-hop has no boundaries — and neither do I!”
The MTV EMAs broadcast reached more than 350 million households worldwide, making it one of the most-watched music award shows globally.
