Beatboxing pioneer Doug E. Fresh is this year’s recipient of the “I Am Hip Hop” Award at the 2014 BET Hip Hop Awards. Fresh is the latest rap great to be honored for their efforts in helping to redefine the genre. 

With classic songs like "Keep Risin' to the Top," "The Show" and "La Di Da Di" among his musical contributions, Doug E. Fresh has been one of hip hop's preeminent talents for almost three decades. It was in 1985 that the Harlem-bred rapper exploded on to the music scene as a member of the charismatic collective, The Get Fresh Crew. While deejays Barry B and Chill Will spun the tunes, Fresh and fellow MC, Slick Rick, moved the crowd with their unique styles. Fresh’s innovative ability to imitate a drum machine with his voice became known as beatboxing.

The man now known as “The Human Beatbox” and “The World’s Greatest Entertainer” wasn't a one trick pony either, he proved himself to be a powerful force with dope rhymes, and quick-witted lyrics, in addition to extraordinary beatboxing skills.

Throughout his career, Doug E. Fresh has continued to push boundaries in entertainment, making him that much more deserving of the legend title. 

Past “I Am Hip Hop” Award honorees include MC Lyte, LL Cool J, Salt-N-Pepa, Ice Cube, Russell Simmons, KRS-One, and Grandmaster Flash.

Uncle Snoop is set to host the 2014 BET Hip Hop Awards featuring performances from Common, Birdman, Rich Homie Quan, Young Thug, and DJ Mustard. Grammy-winner and Real Husbands of Hollywood star Nelly and G.O.O.D. Music songstress Teyana Taylor are among the confirmed presenters. 

The show tapes this Saturday (Sept. 20) at Atlanta’s Boisfueillet Jones Atlanta Civic Center, and will air Tuesday, October 14, at 8:00 p.m. EST, followed by the Real Husbands of Hollywood S2: Reunion Special at 10:00 p.m. EST.