Busta Rhymes celebrated his first ever VMA victory at the 2025 MTV Awards, paying tribute to LL Cool J and Ananda Lewis.
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Busta Rhymes caught his first MTV VMA at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York on Sunday (September 7), accepting the first rock-crow-like far-flung award while paying LL Cool J and remembering MTV’s late MTV Idol Ananda Lewis.
After 16 nominations and more than thirty years of nominations in the competition, the Hip Hop Heavyweight finally won the Lunaman Trophy.
“You all know I usually do these long-term speeches, and I won’t do one today. But next time you all will take 35 years to give me one of them, and you’ll all let me talk!” Busta joked on the stage, attracting cheers from the crowd.
The first Rock Bell Visionary Award this year recognizes the pioneers who redefine hip-hop culture and music video art.
Busta Rhymes brings cool j to his flowers during his speech
The award is part of a collaboration with Rock the Bells Brand, founded by LL Cool J, who also hosted a VMAS solo for the first time.
Busta used this moment to pay tribute to LL, calling him “the reason why I wrote the first rhyme.”
He also pays tribute to Lewis, the MTV VJ who died in 2023.
“A incredible woman, loves me, she loves us. She loves this culture; she lifts us up.” He also thanks her family for attending. “I love her very much. I miss her very much.”
He acknowledged his parents, children and close supporters, reflecting on the importance of allowing loved ones to witness this milestone.
“Blessings won’t stop, so we won’t stop, baby,” he said to end the speech.
Before accepting the award, Busta lit the stage with his classic magazines (including “Gimme More”, “Touch It” and “By Courvoisier”, reminding everyone why his presence in hip-hop is still unparalleled.
The 2025 MTV Video Music Awards will be held on Sunday (September 7) at UBS Arena in Elmont, New York.
