Hip-hop icon Busta Rhymes is set to receive the first-ever MTV VMA Rock the Bells Visionary Award at this year’s Video Music Awards. The honor recognizes his “boundary-breaking cultural impact and an indomitable musical career,” a statement from MTV said.
A Long-awaited Recognition
The award is being introduced at the 2025 MTV VMAs, taking place at the UBS Arena in Elmont, New York, on Sept. 7. Hosted solo by LL Cool J, the show will air on both CBS and MTV and stream on Paramount+. Busta Rhymes, 53, will also perform during the ceremony.
In a parallel tribute, Latin superstar Ricky Martin will be honored with the inaugural Latin Icon Award for a “four-decade career that launched Latin music and culture into the mainstream.”
Busta Rhymes first appeared on the VMA stage in 1997 and has left an indelible mark on the world of hip-hop through his charismatic delivery and genre-spanning creativity (AP News, NBC Bay Area). MTV highlighted his “boundary-breaking cultural impact” in announcing the award.
Colleagues and fans alike have long celebrated Rhymes for pushing boundaries. His high-energy performances and pioneering style influenced a generation of artists. The introduction of this award is seen as a fitting tribute to his storied career.
The 2025 show promises a dynamic blend of veteran acts and rising stars. Confirmed performers include Sabrina Carpenter, Alex Warren, J Balvin with DJ Snake, and newcomer sombr. Sabrina Carpenter returns after last year’s debut; Alex Warren appears for the first time; and sombr makes his awards-show debut. Voting for fan-favorite categories remains open through Sept. 5.