5 Most Memorable Moments
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,” “B—- Don’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. Kendrick Lamar ended his set with “Alright” as E-40, Ab-Soul, and Welven Da Great joined him on stage.
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 (“Woo Hah”); Mobb Deep (“Shook Ones”); Lil Kim (“Get Money”); The Lox (“We Gon Make It”); Method Man and Red Man (“Blackout!”); Raekwon (“C.R.E.A.M”); Mase (“Feel So Good”); Black Rob (“Whoa”); and Fat Joe and Remy Ma (“Lean Back”).
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. Future took the crowd up a few notches with trap songs such as “F— Up Some Commas,” and “March Madness.” Nicki Minaj sent female concertgoers into a frenzy when she graced the stage to perform “Truffle Butter.” She also provided women with a few words of encouragement before leaving the stage.
Chris Brown brings a New York favorite on stage
Following a week of controversy regarding his ex-girlfriend, Karruche Tran, Brown remained focused and gave 100 percent on stage at this year’s 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, “My Way.” He also performed as the last act on Summer Jam’s main stage. However, half of the crowd had dispersed by the time his performance was announced shortly before midnight. Even with the slight setback, Fetty Wop is still on pace to have a great summer.
Summer Jam Marred by Disruption
But while the show inside MetLife stadium was one of the best in recent years, the night was overshadowed by a clash between concertgoers and police.
According to reports, the disruption began when tickets were sold out and some attempted to climb the stadium’s gate to enter the festival. The gate was eventually shut down around 7 p.m. and some ticket holders were not allowed entry.
This caused a stir as individuals who paid up to $600 each for a ticket became furious over the gate being shut down. Helicopters flew above the stadium. Hundreds of police officers in riot gear arrived at the stadium and pepper sprayed the crowd that gathered outside. They also used tear gas and a sound generator to produce a screeching sound to irritate those in the vicinity of the noise. Some attendees threw trash and other debris at officers; trash covered the parking lots in front of MetLife Stadium.
Over 60 people were arrested and 10 police were injured.
The Summer Jam Legend Continues …
Hip-hop was birthed in New York City and has always been a culture that produces greatness and controversy. So it’s only right that Summer Jam represent the essence of hip-hop whether it be good or bad. The great performances, surprise guest appearances, and even the disruptions are the things that make Summer Jam special. Regardless of the bad behavior that occurred, we will remember Summer Jam 2015 and, therefore, the legend continues.
Story by A.R. Shaw
Photos by Raymond Hagans for Steed Media Service
