The 31st Annual HOT 97 Summer Jam was a night to remember, lighting up the Prudential Center on June 20th with high-energy performances, surprise tributes, and a crowd that came ready to celebrate Hip Hop in all its glory.
From the moment the gates opened, the atmosphere was electric. Thousands of fans gathered from across the tri-state area, showing up early and staying loud late into the night for what’s widely recognized as the biggest night in Hip Hop.
Before the main event, HOT 97 kicked off the celebration with its Summer Jam Pre-Party Festival at Mulberry Commons, just outside the Prudential Center. From 3 to 6 PM, fans were treated to live performances, music, and local vendors, creating a block party vibe that perfectly captured the spirit of the culture. The Who’s Next Festival Stage featured an exciting lineup of rising talent, including Zeddy Will, Dee Billz, Sturdy Youngin, OhThatsMizz, Moliy, HoneyBxby, and crowd-favorite JayFlexn, the 13-year-old who took home this year’s Who’s Next crown. Their performances were a powerful reminder that the future of Hip Hop is already here and it’s bright.
By 7 PM, the crowd was buzzing with anticipation as the lights dimmed and the main stage erupted with energy. The evening’s performances were nothing short of legendary. A Boogie, Gunna, GloRilla, Muni Long, Asake, and Ayra Starr each delivered show-stopping sets that had the entire arena on their feet. From Ayra Starr’s soulful Afro-fusion vibes to GloRilla’s raw Memphis energy, every artist brought something unique to the table. Muni Long’s vocals soared, Asake’s crowd control was magnetic, and A Boogie’s hometown presence set the tone for the night.
One of the most memorable moments came when Ja Rule hit the stage with a heartfelt tribute to Irv Gotti. The performance was a nostalgic and emotional reminder of an era that helped shape Hip Hop’s commercial and cultural rise. Fans sang along to every classic, with phones lighting up the arena. The tribute was followed by equally explosive performances from Kash Doll, Bobby Konders & Jabba featuring Masicka, Jim Jones & Friends, and the buzzing NYC drill collective 41.
The Knockturnal was on-site, speaking with artists and influencers throughout the night. Summer Jam 2025 brought generations together under one roof to honor the past, celebrate the present, and spotlight the future of Hip Hop.
