Challenges Faced by Busta Rhymes: Obstacles and Turning Points

A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Busta Rhymes's life and career.

Busta Rhymes, born Trevor George Smith Jr., is an American rapper and actor known for his unique and energetic delivery. The name Busta Rhymes was given to him by Chuck D of Public Enemy. A highly respected figure in hip-hop, he has garnered significant critical acclaim throughout his career. Notably, he has received 12 Grammy Award nominations, highlighting his impact and artistry in the music industry, despite not winning any.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles Controversies & Scandals

1993: Release of T.I.M.E. and Breakup of Leaders of the New School

In 1993, Leaders of the New School released their album T.I.M.E. (The Inner Mind's Eye). The group subsequently broke up due to internal problems.

December 1998: Arrest for Gun Possession

In December 1998, Busta Rhymes was arrested and charged with possession of an unregistered gun during a traffic stop in New York City.

October 6, 2000: Probation for Gun Possession

On October 6, 2000, Busta Rhymes received five years' probation after pleading guilty to possessing an unregistered gun earlier in the year.

August 20, 2006: Arrested for Assault

On August 20, 2006, Busta Rhymes was arrested and arraigned for third-degree assault after allegedly attacking a man in New York City who spat on his car after the AmsterJam Music Festival on Randall's Island.

October 24, 2006: Court Appearance for Weapons Possession

On October 24, 2006, Busta Rhymes appeared at Manhattan Criminal Court where the district attorney's office attempted to amend previous charges against him to include weapons possession for a machete found in his car. The judge refused to add the charge.

February 20, 2007: Rejection of Plea Deal

On February 20, 2007, Busta Rhymes refused a plea deal offered by the prosecutor's office for the assault of his former driver, Edward Hatchett, which would have entailed jail time and pleading guilty to multiple assaults. A judge offered an alternative option, including community service, youth lectures, anger management, and probation.

May 3, 2007: Arrested for Driving Violations

On May 3, 2007, Busta Rhymes was arrested in Manhattan for driving without a license and driving while impaired.

March 18, 2008: Sentenced for Driving Under the Influence

On March 18, 2008, a judge in New York City sentenced Busta Rhymes to three years of probation, community service, fines, and enrollment in a drunken driving program related to his arrest in May 2007.

September 25, 2008: Entry to UK Refused

On September 25, 2008, Busta Rhymes was temporarily refused entry to the UK due to "unresolved convictions".

July 2014: Departure from Cash Money Records

In July 2014, Busta Rhymes departed Cash Money Records due to creative differences.

July 23, 2014: Departure from Cash Money Records

On July 23, 2014, Busta Rhymes announced his departure from Cash Money Records due to creative differences.

2018: Plagiarism Accusation

In 2018, Busta Rhymes was accused of plagiarism by Bernardo Lanzetti and his group Acqua Fragile, who alleged that Rhymes' 2001 song "Genesis" used an uncredited sample of the group's "Cosmic Mind Affair".

January 10, 2025: Assault Arrest

On January 10, 2025, Busta Rhymes was involved in assaulting one of his assistants, Dashiel Gables, after an argument in Brooklyn. He was arrested and charged with third-degree assault.