Discussing his new book Top Billin’: Stories of Laughter Lessons and Triumph — out April 25 — the former MTV VJ told PEOPLE how rewarding the writing process was while documenting those iconic instances. Recounting the groundbreaking time he spent as one of the network’s first Black VJs, the TV pioneer shared one of the more “surreal” moments.

“I’m on stage [at the VMAs], I give the award to Michael Jackson and Janet Jackson, and I’m on stage with Biggie,” Bellamy, 58, exclusively tells PEOPLE of sharing the moment with the late rapper, also known as the Notorious B.I.G.

Read the full story in People.