Busta Rhymes Receives the Inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award at the 2025 VMAs

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A Legacy Honored

At the 42nd MTV Video Music Awards held on September 7, 2025, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, Busta Rhymes was celebrated with the Rock the Bells Visionary Award—a brand-new honor introduced this year to spotlight pioneers in hip-hop and culture. This marks his first-ever VMA win.

Heat of the Moment

The ceremony—hosted by LL Cool J and broadcast live for the first time on CBS, with streaming on Paramount+—was a nostalgic and homage-filled night. It blended early 2000s icons, modern stars, and pioneering artists into one dynamic event.
Among the new awards, the Latin Icon Award went to Ricky Martin.

A Medley with Guest Stars

Before accepting his award, Busta ignited the stage with a medley of career-spanning hits—“Break Ya Neck,” “Gimme Some More,” his verse on “Scenario,” “Touch It,” and “Pass the Courvoisier Part 2.” He surprised the crowd by bringing out Joyner Lucas, Papoose, Spliff Star, and GloRilla, delivering one of the evening’s most show-stopping moments.

Speech of Gratitude

In a brief but powerful acceptance, Busta Rhymes shared:

“Y’all know I usually make these long-ass speeches, but I’m not going to do that today… the next time y’all take 35 years to give me one of these, y’all gonna let me talk as long as I want.”

He went on to thank his parents, children, and Mona Scott-Young, whom he referred to as “the mother of my career.” He also gave shout-outs to Ciara and Yo Gotti, acknowledging their presence at the awards.

A Heartfelt Tribute

In perhaps the most touching moment of his speech, Busta Rhymes dedicated the award to the late MTV VJ Ananda Lewis, who passed away in June after battling stage IV breast cancer. He recalled her uplifting influence in late-’90s hip-hop and paid her a moving tribute.

Why It Matters

This award cements Busta Rhymes’ place not only as an iconic rapper but also as a visionary force in music and culture. With a solo career launched in 1996—amassing over 20 million album sales—his recent 2023 release BLOCKBUSTA shows he remains creatively vibrant.