Born Trevor Tahiem Smith, Jr., the artist better known as Busta Rhymes made a huge splash in the music world with his high-energy style and rapid-fire delivery. He first gained major recognition for his hit single “Woo Hah!” which showcased his unique flow and helped solidify his place in hip-hop history. Over time, Busta Rhymes became widely celebrated not just for his lyrical speed, but also for his dynamic stage presence and innovative music videos.
As a key figure in the industry, Busta Rhymes went on to become a founding member of the record label Conglomerate, further expanding his influence beyond performing. Before he rose to fame, he actually attended high school alongside several future rap legends—none other than Jay-Z, DMX, and The Notorious B.I.G.—which gives some interesting context to his early environment and connections.
On a personal note, Busta Rhymes shares three sons—T’ziah, T’Khi, and Trillian—with his former girlfriend Joanne Wood. In addition, he welcomed a daughter named Mariah in 1998 with another ex-girlfriend. Throughout it all, Busta Rhymes has remained a prominent and enduring figure in rap, consistently evolving while staying true to his roots.
He’s often been referred to as one of the most prolific rappers in history, and his impact on the music industry is undeniable. Over the years, he’s racked up more than ten Grammy Award nominations, a testament to his talent and influence. On top of his success in music, he also made a memorable appearance in the 2000 film Shaft, showing off his versatility beyond the mic. He really has done it all—dominating the charts, earning critical acclaim, and even stepping into the world of acting with confidence. He continues to be a major figure, proving time and again why he’s considered one of the greats.