The first ever HOT 97 Winter Jam shut down the Barclays Center in Brooklyn on Saturday, December 30th. The evening unfolded with a lineup that captivated the audience, kicking off with Scarlip, the hometown hero, setting the stage ablaze with hits like “This Is New York,” “No Statements,” and “Blick,” igniting the crowd's energy from the get-go.
The Caribbean rhythms took center stage as Ding Dong, Tee Jay, and Rupee brought an explosive heatwave to Winter Jam. Ding Dong's infectious vibe swept through the audience with chart-toppers like “Bad Man Forward” and “Flair Is In The Air.” In an adrenaline-fueled moment, he leaped over the barricade, diving into the hyped crowd. Rupee further elevated the atmosphere with tracks such as “Tempted to Touch” and “Jump,” setting the crowd on fire. Tee Jay’s performance exuded Jamaican vibes, inciting enthusiasm with the pulsating beats of “Drift.” The Soca scene wasn't left behind as Bunji Garlin elevated the stage, representing Trinidad and Tobago with fervor through tracks like “Hard Fete” and “Differentology.”
The tempo soared higher when 41 took over, captivating the audience with sing-alongs to “Bent” and “Stomp Stomp.” The surprise appearances intensified the night as Rowdy Rebel stormed in, delivering the hits “Computers” and “Re-Route.” Remy Ma followed suit, bringing her signature hits like “Whuteva” and “Conceited” before surprising the audience with Connie Diiamond for a joint rendition of their new remix “Ghetto & Ratchet.” Aboogie joined in, charming the crowd with nostalgic tunes like “Jungle,” “My Sh*t,” and “Did Me Wrong.”
Lola Brooke, the Gator herself, stepped into the limelight, dazzling the audience with “I AM LOLA” and captivating performances of “You,” “So DISRESPECTFUL,” and “Don’t Play With It.” The excitement soared as she invited friends like Rickey Blaze, who serenaded with “Just You and I,” and Serani, taking everyone back with “No Games.” Shenseea emerged as a surprise guest, teaming up with Lola to perform their collaboration “Beama,” and hyping the crowd with “Shen Yeng Anthem” and “Blessed.”
The grand finale was nothing short of monumental as Rick Ross and Meek Mill commandeered the stage. Meek delivered a breathtaking setlist, from “Ima Boss” alongside Rick Ross to “Dreams and Nightmares” and “24/7.” Ricky Rozay himself, Rick Ross, performed “F*ckWithMeYouKnowIGotIt” and even added a surprise with “Diced Pineapples.” Meek concluded the night with heartfelt tributes to the late Pop Smoke and PNB Rock.
Overall, HOT 97 Winter Jam put together diverse sounds, surprise acts, and unforgettable moments. It wasn’t just a concert; it was an experience etching itself as an indelible highlight to close out the year.
