Legendary Busta Rhymes to Receive Elite Icon Honor at 2025 Caribbean Music Awards

Jamaican-American rap icon Busta Rhymes adds another major accolade in 2025, as he’s set to receive the Elite Icon Honor at the Caribbean Music Awards, following his recent induction into the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Busta Rhymes gets his flowers at 2025 Caribbean Music Awards

Legendary Jamaican-American rapper Busta Rhymes will be honored with the Elite Icon Award at the Caribbean Music Awards, set for August 28 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn.

The announcement, made on Wednesday by the event’s organizers, the Caribbean Elite Group, emphasized Busta’s unparalleled impact on global music and his seamless fusion of Caribbean heritage with mainstream hip-hop.

This prestigious recognition comes in a milestone year for Busta, who was also recently inducted into the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing his status as a cultural titan. A multi-platinum recording artist, electrifying performer, and visionary leader, Busta Rhymes is “not just an artist—he’s a movement,” according to the press release. The award acknowledges his trailblazing career, which continues to inspire generations.

He will join a star-studded lineup of honorees, including dancehall legend Bounty Killer, who will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award, and Sizzla Kalonji, whose Sizzla Youth Foundation will be recognized for its philanthropic work. Other contributors from the Caribbean region being honored include calypso icon Austin "Super Blue" Lyons, Trinidadian soca producer and artist Kerwin Du Bois, Haitian konpa band Carimi, and gospel powerhouse Shirley Ann Cyril-Mayers.

Returning as host for the evening is none other than Majah Hype, the King of Caribbean Comedy. "I'm beyond thrilled to be hosting the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards for another year! The energy, the talent, the culture—it's going to be an unforgettable night! Get ready to expect the unexpected!" he shared.

"I'm beyond thrilled to be hosting the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards for another year! The energy, the talent, the culture—it's going to be an unforgettable night!

The 2025 CMAs will also showcase an electrifying roster of performances from top-tier talent, including dancehall stars Chronic Law, Ding Dong, Konshens, and reggae artists Lila Iké and Romain Virgo, among others—promising a celebration of Caribbean excellence like no other.