Rakim and LL COOL J performed a tribute to "I Am Hip-Hop" Award recipient Marley Marl at the 2023 BET Hip Hop Awards.

The legendary MCs were backed by Technician The DJ, DJ Jazzy Jeff, and Adam Blackstone's band. DJ, radio legend, and producer Marley Marl produced Eric B. and Rakim's 1987 debut single "Eric B. Is President,"/"My Melody," as well as LL COOL J's iconic fourth album Mama Said Knock You Out, which produced the hits "Boomin' System," "Around The Way Girl," "To The Break of Dawn," "Jingling Baby," and the title track.

Rakim opened the tribute with live versions of "Eric B is President" and "Paid In Full." LL COOL J took the stage and performed the Marley Marl remix of "Jingling Baby," "Mr. Goodbar," "Around The Way Girl," "Mama Said Knock You Out," and his signature song "Rock The Bells."

Marley Marl's impact as a radio DJ on New York's WBLS, a legendary producer, and innovator in sampling, has influenced legendary producers such as Pete Rock, DJ Premier, The RZA, and The Alchemist. Marley is also the head of the legendary Juice Crew collective, which includes Roxanne Shanté, MC Shan, Kool G Rap, Big Daddy Kane, Craig G, Masta Ace and the late Biz Markie. In his acceptance speech, Marley thanked his Queensbridge influences and dedicated his award to Mr. Magic, his co-host on Mr. Magic's Rap Attack, the iconic WBLS show that further solidified Rap music as a viable force in music and culture.

"I had some people inspire me in my life and they were mentioned in 'The Bridge'- T Tom, Jappy Jap, Larry Larr and Gas. But they weren't the ones who put me on," he said. "When I got with Mr. Magic through Dr. Bob Lee we changed the world by becoming the first rap show on the radio."