Hot 97’s Summer Jam 2024 Ignites the Season with Doja Cat Headlining a Star-Studded Night

Sexyy Red performing – Photo: Johnny Nunez/WireImage

Hot 97 was back with Sumner Jam this year celebrating 30 years at the UBS Arena in New York City with a star-studded line up. While the summer solstice may mark the official start of summer, Hip-Hop has its calendar. This past weekend, Hot 97 launched the season in style with their annual Summer Jam concert, an eagerly awaited event that sets the tone for the months ahead.

This year’s show, emanating from the UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, was a night of electrifying performances and unforgettable moments. Headlined by pop sensation Doja Cat, the concert celebrated the best in contemporary and classic Hip-Hop, drawing a massive crowd eager to experience the magic of live music.

Star-Studded Lineup

Doja Cat, known for her eclectic style and chart-topping hits, delivered a show-stopping performance that had the audience on their feet. Her set included fan favorites and tracks from her latest album, showcasing her versatility and star power.

Doja Cat headlining Summer Jam 2024 – Photo : Johnny Nunez/WireImage

The stage was also graced by stars, including Gunna, Sexyy Red, and Davido, who brought unique sounds and high energy to the event. Rising talents like Kyle Richh, Tata, and Jenn Carter showcased the future of Hip-Hop, captivating the crowd with their fresh beats and dynamic performances.

A particular night highlight was Cash Cobain, whose hit song “Fisherr” alongside Bay Swag has dominated New York City airwaves, especially after the remix with Ice Spice. His performance was a testament to the local talent that continues to shape the city’s vibrant music scene.

Legends in the Spotlight

Hip-hop veterans were well represented, with Method Man, Redman, Rakim, Big Daddy Kane, French Montana, and Ferg delivering their classic records. Method Man and Redman’s rendition of their 1999 hit single “Da Rockwilder” was a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many fans. 

However, Method Man expressed dissatisfaction with the crowd’s reception to their performance, stating on Instagram, “Not our crowd at all… Thanks again, New York, the whole tri-state (that showed up to the event), and Pete and Ebro. I have love for you guys, but never again…at this point, the generation gap is just too wide for me.. #nevercomingback.”

Method Man & Red Man performing at Summer Jam – Photo : Johnny Nunez/WireImage

The Evolution of Summer Jam

Since its inception in 1994, Summer Jam has evolved from spotlighting New York’s local talent to featuring diverse artists nationwide. The festival has been the stage for some of Hip-Hop’s most iconic moments, including Jay-Z’s famous diss to Nas and his surprise guest, Michael Jackson, in 2001.

This year’s Summer Jam continued this tradition of excellence, blending the new wave of artists with legendary acts, making it a must-attend event for Hip-Hop lovers. Despite the generational shifts, the festival remains a beloved fixture in the music calendar, showcasing the genre’s rich history and vibrant future.

As the night came to a close, it was clear that Summer Jam 2024 had once again succeeded in bringing together a diverse and dynamic lineup, creating an unforgettable experience for all who attended. Whether you’re a fan of the old school or the new, this year’s concert was a testament to the enduring power and influence of Hip-Hop.