US rapper Busta Rhymes has been released after being detained at London's City Airport under armed guard.

The rapper, whose real name is Trevor George Smith Jr, was held because of “unresolved convictions” in America.

Initial attempts to deport the rapper to Amsterdam yesterday morning were prevented by his lawyer. Rhymes was finally freed last night after a judge ruled that his detention was unlawful.

He was held for a total of 11 hours in a room measuring 7ft by 8ft.

The rapper is in the country to perform a RockCorp charity concert at the Royal Albert Hall later.

Stephen Greene, co-founder of RockCorp said he was “shocked” and said the rapper had the necessary work permit to perform in the country.

Rhymes visited to the UK last month without problems to promote the event, joining volunteers in South London.

Ludacris, a friend of Rhymes, has been flown to the country to fill in for the rapper in case he isn't allowed to perform.

(by Jason Gregory)