A new era of hip-hop recognition was ushered in at the 2025 MTV Video Music Awards as rap icon Busta Rhymes was honored with the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award. The ceremony, held on September 7, 2025, at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, saw Rhymes accept the prestigious award for his “boundary-breaking cultural impact and indomitable musical career.” In a poignant moment during his acceptance speech, the artist paid a heartfelt tribute to the late MTV VJ Ananda Lewis, who passed away in June of the same year.
Honoring a Visionary in Hip-Hop
The introduction of the Rock the Bells Visionary Award marks a significant moment for the MTV VMAs, aiming to celebrate artists who have consistently pushed the boundaries of music, style, and performance, inspiring both their peers and future generations. Busta Rhymes, a true embodiment of this spirit, was a fitting first recipient. His career, spanning over three decades, is marked by a unique lyrical style, vibrant visual artistry, and a dynamic stage presence that has left an indelible mark on hip-hop culture.
Born Trevor George Smith Jr., Rhymes first gained prominence as part of the group Leaders of the New School in the early 1990s. His unforgettable verse on A Tribe Called Quest’s “Scenario” became a landmark moment, showcasing his rapid-fire delivery and infectious energy, setting the stage for his influential solo career. Over the years, Rhymes has released numerous acclaimed albums, including “The Coming,” “When Disaster Strikes…,” and “Extinction Level Event,” cementing his status as a solo powerhouse. He is celebrated for his energetic performances, innovative music videos, and his ability to seamlessly blend his Jamaican heritage with futuristic sounds, creating a blueprint that continues to resonate.
A Tribute to Ananda Lewis
During his acceptance speech, Busta Rhymes took a significant moment to honor Ananda Lewis, a beloved MTV VJ who passed away at the age of 52 in June 2025. Lewis, who was a prominent figure at MTV from 1997 to 2001, hosting popular shows like “Total Request Live” and “Hot Zone,” was remembered by Rhymes as an “incredible woman that loved us very much when we came to MTV during the ’90s.” He further described her as a woman who “loved me, and she loved us. She loved the culture. She lifted us up.” Rhymes expressed his deep affection and longing for her, affectionately calling her “the late great, incredible royal empress, Ananda Lewis,” and extended his condolences to her family.
Ananda Lewis’s legacy extends beyond her VJing career; she was recognized by The New York Times in 1999 as “the hip-hop generation’s reigning It Girl.” After leaving MTV in 2001, she launched her own talk show, “The Ananda Lewis Show.” Her passing came after a battle with stage III breast cancer, which had progressed to stage IV. Lewis had publicly shared her journey, advocating for early detection. Rhymes’ tribute highlighted Lewis’s significant impact on the culture and her role in uplifting artists during a pivotal era for hip-hop.
An Unforgettable Performance and Career Recognition
Before accepting the award, Busta Rhymes delivered a high-energy medley of his most iconic hits, electrifying the audience. The performance featured beloved tracks such as “Break Ya Neck,” “Gimme Some More,” “Scenario,” “Touch It,” “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See,” and “Pass the Courvoisier, Part II.” He was joined on stage by special guests GloRilla, Joyner Lucas, Papoose, and Spliff Star, who helped celebrate his legendary career.
The Rock the Bells Visionary Award marks Busta Rhymes’ first-ever MTV VMA win, despite numerous nominations and performances throughout his career. He humorously acknowledged this, joking that he would need 35 years to give an acceptance speech if they waited that long again. Rhymes expressed profound gratitude for his family’s presence, with several of his children in attendance, and reflected on the continuous blessings in his career, stating, “The blessings don’t stop, so we don’t stop.” The evening also saw other significant recognitions, including Mariah Carey receiving the Video Vanguard Award and Ricky Martin being honored with the Latin Icon Award. Hosted by LL Cool J, the 2025 MTV VMAs celebrated the enduring power and influence of music across genres, with a special emphasis on the contributions of hip-hop.
Busta Rhymes’ acceptance of the inaugural Rock the Bells Visionary Award is a testament to his pioneering spirit and lasting impact on music and culture. His tribute to Ananda Lewis underscored the importance of remembering those who paved the way and contributed to the vibrant tapestry of hip-hop history. The night served as a powerful reminder of Rhymes’ status as an icon and a visionary in the music industry.
