Multi-Grammy Award nominee Busta Rhymes cemented his name in music history. The rapper was honored “Woo-Hah! Got You All in Check” with the BET Awards lifetime achievement award at the 2023 ceremony in Los Angeles on June 25. the network.
At the ceremony at the Microsoft Theatre, Rhymes, 51, was introduced by Marlon Wayans and Swizz Beatz before a compilation video aired documenting the rapper’s prolific career, which featured commentary from his -ages, including Diddy, Mariah Carey, and Janet Jackson.
“I’m wearing it on my sleeve. I want to cry,” he admitted, suspending his speech. After referring to his early days as a solo act following his departure from the New School Leaders, Rhymes noted that “a lot of greatness comes from our people and our culture in general, because it’s the magic that we have.” He told the audience, “I’m just grateful that the blessing that I’ve been given and this gift that I’ve been given … allows me to get into any situation … I like to walk away from a situation saying, ‘I’m kicking ass.’ It’s just me trying to do my part to promote the culture and continue to contribute in a meaningful way.”
He also had a message for the next generation of hip-hop and rap artists, encouraging them to stop the beef and “love each other.” Rhymes said, “We’ve got to stop this narrative that we don’t love each other. . . It’s corny, it’s a whale.” He also added, “Shout out to all the new artists that are contributing and doing their thing,” shouting on acts like Ice Spice and J. Cole.
Rhymes later returned to the stage, performing “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See,” his feature from MOP’s “Ante Up,” “I Know What You Want,” and his verse from ” Look at Me Now,” among other highlights of his discography.
Ahead of the show, Rhymes’ honor was announced by BET. The company’s CEO, Scott Mills, said in a statement that Rhymes is “a multi-faceted award-winning artist who has captivated audiences for decades with his original hip hop sound and the one-of-a-kind visuals. on the culture that respects us, and it is with great pride that we present this year’s life achievements award to a visionary, a master of verse, and a true pioneer. generations of artists are a testament to his unparalleled legacy.” As Mills concludes, “We look forward to paying tribute to his incredible journey and celebrating his countless influences, concerts electronic, and indeterminate moments defining the art form and the culture.”
Others who have earned the tribute include Whitney Houston, Prince, Diddy, and Lionel Richie.
