The Hot 97 Summer Jam has become a staple of hip-hop. The annual summer festival has always served as a barometer for the state of rap music.
This year, rolling out was hand to capture every moment. Here are the five best moments from Hot 97 Summer Jam.
Kendrick Lamar: Good kid, takes on the big city
A few years back, Kendrick Lamar claimed to be the “King of New York” on his controversial verse from the song, “Control.” He backed up his claim by rocking the Summer Jam stage and rapping hits such as “King Kunta,” “Dan’t Kill My Vibe,” and “M.A.A.D. City.” He was also joined on stage by School Boy Q who performed “Collard Greens.” Another TDE artist, SZA, also made an appearance.
Fabolous brings back ’90s hip-hop
Fabolous may have had the most memorable set of the night. A known lover of all things from the ’90s, Fabolous reminded the crowd of how much New York dominated hip-hop two decades ago. His special guests included Busta Rhymes, Mobb Deep, Lil Kim, The Lox, Method Man and Red Man, Raekwon, Black Rob, and Fat Joe and Remy Ma.
Nicki Minaj and Future join Meek Mill on stage
Meek Mill saved one of the best performances for last. His surprise guests were Future and his girlfriend, Nicki Minaj.
Chris Brown brings a New York favorite on stage
Chris Brown has always given 100 percent on stage and continued at the Hot 97 Summer Jam. Brown performed a slew of his hits and brought out New York fan favorite, 50 Cent. 50 Cent performed “Many Men” and “What Up Gangsta?” Brown also brought out French Montana.
Fetty Wop solidifies himself as the top newcomer of 2015
Fetty Wop is riding high on his debut single, “Trap Queen.” He took the festival stage before the primary show and performed “Trap Queen,” and his new single, “Come My Way.”
Photos: Raymond Hagans for Steed Media
