Jamaican dancehall legend Bounty Killer, whose real name is Rodney Price, on Aug. 28, copped the Lifetime Achievement Award during the 3rd Annual Caribbean Music Awards (CMA) at Kings Theatre on Flatbush Avenue in Brooklyn.
“This means a lot to me,” Bounty Killer told the sell-out audience after receiving the award. “I just want to say thanks to the Caribbean Music Awards for honoring me. There are even more out there working harder than me.
“I just want to say one of my biggest donors is a 9-year-old; she’s now 13 years old,” he added. “She sent nine barrels of clothes. She’s a Jamaican-Canadian.
In introducing Bounty Killer, the presenter said Bounty Killder “didn’t just led the way; he led other people. The biggest, the toughest, the Icon – make some noise to the legendary Bounty Killer the crowd obliged roaringly).
The voice over said: “This man breaks down barriers. He became the people’s general.”
The Caribbean Elite Group (CEG), organizer of the event, said Bounty Killer received the Lifetime Achievement Award for his “significant impact on the industry over the years.”
CEG also said Busta Rhymes was awarded the Elite Icon honor, “further solidifying his legendary status.”
“This prestigious award recognizes his significant influence on the music industry and celebrates his remarkable ability to blend his Caribbean heritage with mainstream hip-hop,” CEG said.
“Busta Rhymes is not just an artist; he is a groundbreaking figure who breaks down barriers and inspires countless others,” it added. “As a multi-platinum recording artist, electrifying performer, and visionary leader, his receipt of this accolade is not only well-deserved but also a testament to the lasting impact he has made in the world of music.”
Busta Rhymes, whose real name is Trevor George Smith, Jr., was born on May 20, 1972 in the East Flatbush neighborhood of Brooklyn, to Geraldine Green and Trevor Smith Sr., who both were immigrants from Jamaica.
Busta Rhymes has received 12 GRAMMY Award nominations, making him one of the most-nominated artists without a win.
CEG said multiculturalism, which celebrates the rich tapestry of Caribbean cultures through music and expression, continues to be a focal point at CMA.
The event was hosted once again by the King of Caribbean Comedy, Jamaican Majah Hype/
“I’m beyond thrilled to be hosting the 2025 Caribbean Music Awards for another year,” Majah Hype said.
“Tonight, we’re transforming the stage into a Caribbean festival,” he added. “Year three of the Caribbean Music Awards – if anyone thought this was a one-hit award, you’re wrong. We have to stay.
“There’s a lot of Caribbean talent in the building,” Majah Hype continued.
Besides Bounty Killer and Busta Rhymes, the full list of winners at CMA 2025 are: Iconic Honors: Austin “Super Blue” Lyons; Producer Honors: Kerwin Du Bois; Humanitarian Award: Sizzla Youth Foundation; Gospel Excellence: Shirleyann Cyril-Mayers; Legacy Honors: Carimi (Haitian band); Reggae Collaboration of the Year: Bugle ft. Buju Banton & Damian “Jr. Gong” Marley (“Thank You Lord”); Bouyon Artist of the Year: The Bouyon Boys; and Bouyon Collaborator of the Year: Lady Lava.
Other awardees are: Female Artists of the Year — Dancehall Artist of the Year – Female: Shenseea; Reggae Artist of the Year – Female: Lila Iké; Soca Artist of the Year – Female: Patrice Roberts; Male Artists of the Year – Dancehall Artist of the Year – Male: Valiant; Reggae Artist of the Year – Male: Romain Virgo; and Soca Artist of the Year – Male: Skinny Fabulous.
“Wow!” said Patrice Roberts in receiving her award. “I want to say thank you to all my supporters. This award is not just for me but for everybody.”
The award ceremony will premiere on BET on Friday, Sept.12, 2025, 8 p.m.ET/PT
