American rapper, singer, record producer, and actor Busta Rhymes born Trevor George Smith Jr. has officially received the 2,818th star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
The ceremony took place on Hollywood Boulevard at 6201 Hollywood Boulevard, in front of East Town. This prestigious honour recognizes his immense contributions to hip-hop music and culture, solidifying his status as a true icon.
The Hollywood walk of fame honours individuals in the entertainment industry with brass terrazzo stars embedded in a pavement, serving as attribute to actors, musicians, directors, producers, and fictional character who have made significant contribution to the world of entertainment.
The timing is particularly significant, coming nearly 30 years after the release of his ground-breaking debut solo album, “The Coming”, in 1996.
In an emotional speech, busta reflected on the hardship he endured during his relentless of pursuit to excellence, “I worked so hard and I never asked for a shortcut, I never asked for a cheat code,” Busta said while teary-eyed on stage.
“I was never raised by a support system that made it seem okay to try to go around honestly earning your rite to passage. I want to thank those people.”
Busta continued to “big-up” plenty of people who supported him on this journey, including his children, Epic Records CEO Sylvia Rhone, members of his team and his mother.
“I feel complete today. As we completed this chapter and started giving birth to a new one. I’m no longer Daniel-San in this st, I’m Mr. Miyagi now,” Busta said in a mic drop as he concluded his speech.
Busta Rhymes then posed for photos alongside LL COOL J, radio royalty Big Boy, Chuck D and Big Daddy Kane.
The singer first gained significant attention by emulating LL COOL J’s distinctive lyrical style in his early work. This foundation propelled his rise, earning him recognition and praise from hip-hop legends like Big Daddy Kane, Chuck D, and LL COOL J himself.
Beyond achieving major solo success as a rapper, Busta has also built a notable acting career. Furthermore, expanding his impact beyond artistic achievements, he is an activist for criminal justice reform.