Hip hop legend Busta Rhymes, originally from Long Island, has achieved a momentous milestone: receiving a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This honour celebrates his remarkable 30-year career and enduring influence on the music industry.
The Uniondale native, famed for hits like “Put Your Hands Where My Eyes Could See,” “Break Ya Neck,” “Touch It,” and his collaboration with the Pussycat Dolls on “Don’t Cha,” joins music royalty with this prestigious recognition. The Hollywood ceremony was a testament to his lasting impact.
“I feel born again today. I feel complete today,” Rhymes expressed during his heartfelt acceptance speech, reflecting on his journey to this pinnacle of success.
The event was hosted by radio personality Big Boy and featured tributes from fellow Long Islanders Chuck D and LL Cool J. LL Cool J lauded Busta Rhymes' “awe-inspiring power, commitment to his craft… commitment to excellence as an artist and performer.” He further added, “The brother’s career is magic. He’s a leader of the new school who’s become one of the leaders of all schools. That’s pretty powerful.”
Busta Rhymes, born Trevor Smith Jr., initially gained prominence in the early 90s with Leaders of the New School before embarking on his solo journey with the release of “The Coming” in 1996. His sophomore album, “When Disaster Strikes…,” solidified his position as a groundbreaking rapper and performer, recognised for his unique, deep-voiced rapid-fire delivery and innovative music videos.
Considered a legend by his peers, Jay-Z and KRS-One have both hailed him as “the greatest performer of all time,” while the late Phife Dawg affectionately called him “the James Brown of hip-hop.” Throughout his illustrious career, Busta Rhymes has collaborated with an impressive roster of icons, including Dr. Dre, Janet Jackson, Eminem, Missy Elliott, Snoop Dogg, Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, and even Ozzy Osbourne.
Yo-Yo Ma: Music Can Unite
In other news, globally acclaimed cellist Yo-Yo Ma believes in the power of music to unite. He recently collaborated with African vocalist Angélique Kidjo for a free performance in Chicago's Millennium Park, showcasing how music can bridge cultures and bring people together. Ma, an immigrant himself, expressed his gratitude to the United States for the opportunities he's been given.
“One of the things that we feel music can do is actually bring community together in a way that is not necessarily in your face or controversial, but it just gives us a safe place for us to contemplate and to think and to also to bring out our best selves,” said Ma.