Hip-Hop’s Most Iconic Stage, Hot 97 Summer Jam From London to New York

New Wave Magazine, stepping onto the grounds of Hot 97’s Summer Jam felt like crossing the Atlantic in spirit. This wasn’t just a festival,  it was a celebration of Black artistry, legacy, and the raw pulse of hip-hop culture. And I was right in the middle of it, soaking up the energy, the style, and the stories behind the music.

Outside the arena, we got a chance to speak with fans all buzzing with anticipation. The weather was perfect, and with the sun high and energy even higher, it was also the first day of summer, an unforgettable way to kick off the season.

What stood out to us most was the diversity of the crowd: groups of friends dripped out in their fits, families dancing together, parents bringing their kids, and fans from every generation side by side. That’s the magic of Hot 97 Summer Jam it brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate music that spans eras and cultures.

The lineup was stacked with current stars like GloRilla, Cash Cobain, Gunna, 41 (Kyle Richh, Jenn Carter, Tata), A boogie that had the whole stadium lit & Muni Long, who delivered an exceptional live vocal performance. But the night was a full-circle moment when icons like Ja Rule and Jim Jones hit the stage, bringing out surprise guests like Lloyd and the Murder Inc. crew. For a moment, we were fully transported back into our 90s phase, reliving the soundtrack of my younger self.

Adding even more flavor to the show was the D’USSÉ International Stage, with global heavyweights like Diamond Platnumz, Asake, and Ayra Starr, who all came through with explosive performances that had the crowd dancing. And just when we thought the surprises were over, Jim Jones brought out Meek Mill, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The DJs and hosts kept the energy consistent throughout the entire day hyping the crowd, spinning crowd-favorite throwbacks, and making sure the vibes never dropped. By the end of the night, voices were completely gone from singing, shouting, and living in the moment. First time in New Jersey, safe to say, Summer Jam made it unforgettable.