Laura Stylez from Hot 97 on hosting Brooklyn Unity Fest
The Brooklyn Unity Fest brought together hip-hop lovers from all over New York, blending music, art, and community engagement. A prominent face at the event was Laura Stylez, the rising star of Hot 97, who took a break from her busy schedule to speak with Hip-Hop Vibe. Fresh off her VH1 debut in the docu-comedy This Is Hot 97, Stylez is making waves not only on the airwaves but also on the small screen, showcasing her unique blend of humor, authenticity, and love for hip-hop.
Laura Stylez’s Journey to Hot 97
Stylez began her journey in radio on the West Coast, starting in Los Angeles, where she had her first taste of radio work. The experience ignited her passion for the industry, inspiring her to pursue radio seriously. At just 19, she moved to New York City, the birthplace of hip-hop, where she attended college and juggled multiple jobs while interning at local radio stations. Her dedication eventually paid off with her first on-air role at La Calle 105.9, a Spanish-language station specializing in reggaeton. She later joined Power 105.1 and then moved to Hot 97 as a digital producer, working closely with Angie Martinez on the digital side of her show.
In 2013, Stylez got her big break on Hot 97 when she was asked to fill in on the morning show. Her on-air chemistry with Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Cipha Sounds was undeniable, leading her to join the morning show team full-time. Known for her vibrant personality and deep connection to hip-hop culture, Stylez quickly became a fan favorite.
Hot 97’s Legacy and Cultural Influence
For years, Hot 97 has held a unique position in hip-hop. Known as “Where Hip Hop Lives,” the station has pioneered the genre on air since 1992, and it has been home to iconic radio personalities like Funkmaster Flex and Angie Martinez. Hot 97 is also known for breaking East Coast hip-hop artists like Wu-Tang Clan and the Notorious B.I.G., contributing significantly to the genre’s popularity in the ’90s. The station has hosted memorable interviews, celebrated hip-hop milestones, and—perhaps most famously—its annual Summer Jam, which consistently draws top hip-hop talent and attracts fans from around the globe.
Hot 97’s storied history has not been without controversy. From shootouts involving Lil’ Kim and Foxy Brown to the infamous feud between 50 Cent and The Game, the station’s Midtown Manhattan offices have occasionally become the scene of drama that reflects the intensity of hip-hop’s biggest rivalries. Hot 97’s cultural relevance, however, extends beyond these incidents, as it has remained a platform for unfiltered commentary on hip-hop culture. DJ battles, high-profile performances, and exclusives keep Hot 97 as relevant today as it was at its founding.
This Is Hot 97 and Stylez’s Role
Debuting on VH1 in March 2014, This Is Hot 97 showcases the day-to-day lives of Hot 97’s most popular radio personalities. The reality-based series combines the real-life personas of the station’s staff with unscripted comedic elements, making it a unique mix of hip-hop culture and humor. Created by Mona Scott-Young, the show captures both the professional lives and the personalities of hosts like Ebro, Funkmaster Flex, and Peter Rosenberg. For Stylez, being on This Is Hot 97 represents a significant career milestone, as she showcases her sense of humor and authenticity to a broader audience.
While her role on This Is Hot 97 may be a small one, it’s no less impactful. Stylez brings a fresh perspective to the show, embodying the energy and resilience of a young woman in the male-dominated world of hip-hop radio. Her presence on This Is Hot 97 adds a dynamic, relatable figure to the cast, especially for female viewers who are looking for representation in hip-hop media.
Hosting the Brooklyn Unity Fest
The Brooklyn Unity Fest is another example of Laura Stylez’s commitment to the community, showcasing local talent and celebrating hip-hop culture beyond the confines of the station’s studios. Stylez, a native of Los Angeles who moved to New York to pursue her career, embraced the opportunity to host this community-centered event, which focuses on uniting Brooklyn’s diverse communities through music. Her role at the fest underscores her expanding her influence outside of Hot 97, from on-air talent to a representative of the station at live events.
During our brief conversation at the Unity Fest, Stylez shared her thoughts on the Brooklyn Unity Fest. The festival is special because it brings people together to celebrate. After hosting the event, Laura Stylez took in the event, herself. Definitely, she was enjoying herself. When her hosting gig was over, she simply enjoyed the people. As a result, many fans got the chance to meet her in person for the first time.
The Road Ahead for Laura Stylez
With her radio career taking off and her growing presence on television, Laura Stylez is on an upward trajectory. She remains dedicated to her role on the Hot 97 morning show, where she continues to bring her humor and insights to listeners daily. As she builds her brand, Stylez is carving out a unique space for herself in hip-hop media, where she can inspire other women aiming for a career in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Looking forward, it’s clear that Stylez’s passion and work ethic will continue to open doors. Whether she’s hosting a community event like the Brooklyn Unity Fest, connecting with fans on Hot 97, or broadening her reach through TV, Stylez is a figure to watch as she shapes her role in hip-hop culture.
Conclusion
Laura Stylez’s journey is a testament to persistence and a love for hip-hop culture. From her early days interning in New York City to her current position as a prominent voice on Hot 97, Stylez embodies the spirit of hustle and dedication that hip-hop values. As she continues to grow with Hot 97 and take on new challenges, including her VH1 debut on This Is Hot 97, Stylez is setting an example for young talent entering the industry. Laura Stylez has quickly become a fan favorite on Hot 97.
With her fresh approach and genuine love for hip-hop, Laura Stylez is poised to make an even bigger impact in the years to come.
