Hot 97 Summer Jam 2025 Recap: Ja Rule, Kash Doll, 41 & more light up the Prudential Center [VIDEO]

Murder Inc. Reunion and Rising Stars Define Summer Jam 2025

For nearly three decades, Hot 97’s Summer Jam has stood as one of hip-hop’s most iconic annual events. From legendary surprise performances to defining moments in music culture, the concert remains a major pilgrimage for fans of rap and R&B. This year, Summer Jam delivered yet another unforgettable night, blending nostalgia with the next generation of stars. Held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey, the event drew thousands of excited fans from across the region—including myself, driving in from Philly for my very first Summer Jam experience.

Kash Doll Brings Detroit Flair to NYC

Kicking off my night was Detroit’s own Kash Doll, who confidently hit the stage dripping in swag. Known for her fierce delivery and commanding stage presence, Kash wasted no time setting the tone. She performed her viral tracks “Run Me My Money” and the ever-popular “Ice Me Out,” drawing loud crowd reactions. However, it was her newest anthem “Kash Kommandments” that truly ignited the Prudential Center. Kash has an undeniable ability to energize the crowd, and her set was a testament to why she remains one of the most respected female voices in the game today.

Brooklyn’s 41 Proves Their Buzz is Real

Next up was rising rap trio 41—comprised of Kyle Richh, Jenn Carter, and TaTa—repping Brooklyn with explosive energy. They burst onto the stage with Jenn Carter’s viral hit “Jenn Jenn Jenn,” and the crowd response was electric. You could feel the pride from New Yorkers and North Jersey fans as they rapped along bar-for-bar.

Their set also included “Or What” featuring NLE Choppa and their breakout banger “Bent,” which boasts over 24 million views on YouTube. 41’s chemistry and stage control impressed even those who might not have been familiar with their catalog. They’re not just riding a wave—they’re building a movement.

Cash Cobain & Ayra Starr Keep the Vibes Fresh

Switching things up, Cash Cobain brought a smooth and engaging performance with hits like the viral “Fisherrr.” His stage presence was natural, and the crowd grooved along with each beat. His set proved that drill and sample-heavy production can still bring bounce and melody to a live show.

One of the evening’s standout moments came courtesy of Nigerian superstar Ayra Starr. She brought a refreshing energy to the stage, performing her massive global hit “Rush.” It was a needed change of pace that showcased Summer Jam’s growing diversity. Ayra’s presence was commanding yet ethereal, and it’s clear her cult following is only going to grow.

Ja Rule and Murder Inc. Reclaim Their Throne

But what made this night legendary was the powerful reunion of the Murder Inc. crew, led by none other than Ja Rule. Billed as a tribute to Irv Gotti, this moment wasn’t just nostalgic—it was historic. Ja Rule, a hip-hop icon who dominated the early 2000s, reminded everyone why his name still rings out in the streets and in the charts.

Opening his set with the anthem “New York” (featuring Jadakiss and Fat Joe), Ja brought out Kiss to deliver his iconic verse. The arena erupted. From there, it was an avalanche of classics: “Murda 4 Life” with Black Child and Caddillac Tah brought back the gritty, aggressive feel of 2001. Black Child, channeling the energy of a young Onyx, lit the stage up with raw emotion.

The highlight for many fans came when Ja brought out Vita for their beloved duet “Put It On Me.” The chemistry between the two was undeniable, and the crowd sang along word-for-word. Vita, still sharp and glowing, brought a new generation of fans into a classic era.

Then came Charli Baltimore, a Philly legend in her own right. She joined Ja for “Down Ass Chick,” another Murder Inc. gem. Watching them trade bars felt like a time capsule from the peak of early-2000s hip-hop. Charli’s charisma hasn’t faded one bit, and her hometown fans in the crowd showed her serious love.

The tribute culminated with a heartfelt performance of “I Cry,” a powerful closer that tugged on emotional strings. Ja Rule took the moment to honor Irv Gotti’s influence and legacy, giving flowers while he could still smell them. The stage filled with the entire Murder Inc. family—a rare sight that felt both celebratory and cathartic.

A Night to Remember for Hip-Hop Culture

Beyond just great performances, Summer Jam 2025 felt like a cultural reset. It bridged the old with the new, proving that hip-hop’s legacy lives on through both its legends and rising stars. The production, crowd energy, and artist selection spoke volumes about the genre’s continued evolution and widespread influence.

The event also served as a showcase for different subgenres and regional styles. From Detroit grit to Afrobeats rhythms and Brooklyn drill, the lineup reflected the diversity of today’s hip-hop landscape. Whether you came to sing along to early-2000s hits or discover your next favorite artist, Summer Jam delivered.

In recent years, there were complaints about Summer Jam not being what it used to be. This year, the show was everything it was hyped up to be, and then some.

Final Thoughts: Summer Jam Delivers for Day-Ones and Newcomers Alike

Hot 97’s Summer Jam 2025 was everything I imagined and more. As a first-time attendee, I witnessed the perfect blend of generations—from gritty Brooklyn drill to afrobeat elegance, and golden-era throwbacks that brought the house down. The Black Promoters Collective once again proved they know how to put on a top-tier production.

Kash Doll showed why she’s not to be underestimated, 41 cemented themselves as NYC’s new leaders, Ayra Starr expanded the soundscape, and Ja Rule turned the clock back in the best way possible. This night was about more than just music—it was about legacy, evolution, and energy.

As I left the Prudential Center and drove back down the Turnpike, one thing was certain: Summer Jam still matters. And in 2025, it delivered a show worthy of its iconic name.