Busta Rhymes scolds Essence Fest audience for using cell phones during performance

Busta Rhymes doesn’t mince his words when it comes to phone use at his concerts.

The legendary rapper, 52, addressed fans who were sitting and likely on their phones during his performance at the 2024 Essence Festival of Culture on Friday, July 5. In a video from the event, Busta (real name Trevor Smith) can be heard saying, “Ayo, fuck these camera phones too. Let’s go back to interacting like humans. Let’s put these weird devices away!”

The “Dangerous” rapper added, “I’m not from that era. These b—s ain’t soul control, f–k your phone!”

At this point in the clip, Busta starts calling people to sit down and tries to get them pumped up by saying, “I’m pointing at every single one of you to get your asses up! I’ve been doing this for 33 years and I’m not used to n—-s sitting down at my show. I don’t give a damn! All age groups, get your asses up now.”

The rapper then explained why there will be “zero tolerance for bullshit – this is the energy,” telling the audience with a broad smile, “because this is my first time in New Orleans for the 30th fucking anniversary of Essence Fest… Make me feel at home!”

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The Essence Festival of Culture, considered the largest annual celebration of black culture in the country, wrapped up Sunday after four days of music and conversation. In addition to Busta Rhymes, the festival featured artists such as Janet Jackson, Usher, Charlie Wilson, SWV, The Roots, Victoria Monét, Teedra Moses, Tank and the Bangas, Dawn Richard, Jagged Edge, Bilal and Anthony Hamilton.