Dolby Theatre

Trevor George Smith Jr., born on May 20, 1972, is an American rapper, record producer, and actor known professionally as Busta Rhymes. He received twelve Grammy Award nominations, making him one of the most-nominated artists without a win. Billboard and Vibe ranked him among the 50 Greatest Rappers of All Time, and Forbes listed him among the greatest rappers on their list of the 50 Top Rappers of All Time. Chuck D of Public Enemy gave him the moniker Busta Rhymes, after NFL and CFL wide receiver George "Buster" Rhymes. Rhymes was an original member of Leaders of the New School, a group that gained national attention while opening for Public Enemy. The group appeared on A Tribe Called Quest's track 'Scenario,' which increased Rhymes' exposure. After Leaders of the New School disbanded, Rhymes became a sought-after solo artist, collaborating on numerous tracks before releasing his debut solo album, The Coming, in 1996. The album debuted within the top ten of the Billboard 200, received platinum certification from the Recording Industry Association of America, and was nominated for a Grammy Award.