Advertise on podcast: HOT 97 Mornings with Mero

New Yorkers sound off on what they really deserve a refund on, and Mero dives into some of the biggest headlines shaping NYC today. From rising costs to the conversations taking over the city, this episode is funny, honest, and all the way New York. And when you’re done listening, play HOT 97’s Hip Hop Jeopardy now at trivia.hot97.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Donnell Rawlings is back on HOT 97 for the 10th time, and he’s bringing big laughs, stand-up stories, and real talk from one of comedy’s most unforgettable voices. This episode dives into comedy, culture, and the moments that keep Donnell at the top of his game. And while you’re here, put your hip-hop knowledge to the test at trivia.hot97.com — HOT 97’s interactive trivia experience made for true fans of the culture. Play now and join the fun. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today’s episode covers everything from culture and commentary to comedy and competition. First, the crew reacts to the conversation around Vogue calling Tracee Ellis Ross’s afro a “cloud bob,” and why the phrase sparked a bigger discussion about Black hair, beauty, and representation in fashion media. Then, in Mind of Mero, Mero gets honest about the moment you realize you may be too old to party like you used to, sharing a funny and relatable take on aging, nightlife, and changing priorities. Plus, the energy shifts with Hip Hop Jeopardy LIVE, where hip-hop fans put their knowledge to the test in a fast-paced game packed with classic moments, artists, and culture-driven questions. Think you know hip-hop? Play now at trivia.hot97.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dave Chappelle is trending again after responding to the controversy surrounding his trans jokes, while fans and critics also react to a Lauren Boebert photo and his Saudi Arabia show. In this episode, we break down all the headlines, the reactions online, and what it says about the current state of comedy, celebrity, and culture. This is a conversation about more than just one headline — it’s about how public figures navigate backlash, why certain moments go viral, and how entertainment, politics, and internet culture keep colliding in real time. Play HOT 97 Trivia: While you’re here, put your hip hop knowledge to the test at trivia.hot97.com — play now and see how you rank. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode is wild. We break down the viral Uber Eats story after a driver was accused of sneaking toe pics into delivery photos, get into the latest on Dave Chappelle show, and run through today’s hottest headlines making noise online. If it’s trending, funny, messy, or has the internet talking, we’re covering it. And before you go, play Hip Hop Trivia now at trivia.hot97.com and see if your hip hop knowledge is really official. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Pastor Mike has the internet talking after putting his own spin on Travis Scott’s “FE!N,” and we break down the reactions. Then we get into a heated debate on whether minimum wage should be $30 an hour, with NYC callers sounding off on what it would really mean for workers, businesses, and everyday life. We also tap into some honest parenting talk and ask a real question: should you ever lie to your kids about their talents, or is brutal honesty the better move? Plus, think you really know hip hop? Play Hip Hop Trivia now at trivia.hot97.com and put your knowledge to the test.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

LaRussell has the internet talking after comparing himself to Jesus and Martin Luther King Jr., and we break down why his comments sparked so much debate. We also get into Justin Bieber’s surprise Coachella moment, tap in on the latest with Young Thug and Wizkid, and hit the streets of NYC to ask a real question: are men getting softer while women are getting harder? The answers were honest, raw, and all over the place. Plus, think you really know hip hop? Play Hip Hop Jeopardy now at trivia.hot97.com and put your knowledge to the test. @HOT97 @TheKidMero See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s Fryday! We’re getting into the latest on Diddy as questions grow around whether he could get out sooner after an appeals court reportedly challenged parts of his sentence. We break down the legal drama, tap into New Music Friday, and run through the biggest hot topics making noise right now. Plus, keep the energy going with Hip Hop Jeopardy and test your knowledge now at trivia.hot97.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jermaine Dupri got the internet talking after saying there’s no real wave in music right now. From Afrobeats to Detroit rap, drill, and Atlanta, we break down whether the game is really dry or just shifting into a new era. Is hip hop in a commercial slump? Are regional sounds taking over again? And is having no clear frontrunner actually better for creativity? Then we get into one of the wildest stories of the week: Beyoncé’s Lemonade just got turned into a lullaby album for babies. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, The Professor returns to AND1 in a true full-circle moment, reflecting on the legacy, culture, and next chapter of the brand while also revealing a new show. The conversation also dives into the gambling debt discussion nobody wanted to have, unpacking risk, pressure, and the realities behind the lifestyle. The episode also explores Leslie Jones’ viral hot take asking whether marriage is “legalized slavery,” sparking a bigger conversation around relationships, commitment, and modern expectations. From sports culture and personal finance to gender debates and entertainment, this episode brings together bold opinions and real conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Bill Bellamy reflects on 30 years in comedy, opening up about how the industry has changed, the impact of social media, and why comedians must continue to adapt to stay relevant. The conversation also takes a serious turn with prayers up for Offset following reports that he was shot at a Florida casino, sparking concern across the culture. The episode also dives into the conversation around “Dirty Mackin’” — what it is, who does it, and whether it’s ever justified. From comedy and culture to street politics and relationship debates, this episode brings together humor, real talk, and the trending topics everyone is talking about.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode dives into a wild mix of culture, controversy, and internet backlash. Trick Daddy is facing major heat after going too far at an AKA conference, while Kanye West sparks debate over whether the culture is ready to forgive him as celebrities show up to SoFi and sponsors begin pulling out. The conversation also turns to DaBaby, who went viral after rejecting a fan’s painting of his daughters and firing back online. From celebrity accountability and public perception to viral moments and fan reactions, this episode breaks down the latest headlines shaping music, culture, and conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode of Mornings with Mero, the crew reacts to the unbelievable Tiger Woods DUI arrest audio, including the now-viral moment where he says, “I was talking to the president!” They also get into the headlines around Pooh Shiesty’s arrest and the conversation around the kidnapping claims tied to Gucci Mane. Then, the team breaks down one of hip hop’s most overlooked debates — Jay-Z’s hidden subliminals — including the “Otis” line that some fans believe was a subtle shot at Cam’ron. It’s a mix of viral moments, hip hop analysis, and unfiltered morning-show energy.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Shadasia Green opens up about her journey from the streets to professional boxing and the fight to support her family. The show also breaks down the viral moment involving Trump, Erica Kirk, and Druski, bringing together powerful storytelling, sports, and culture in one conversation.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Mornings with Mero with Guest Host Vastie On this episode of Mornings With Mero, JAY-Z calls in live and delivers a viral culture moment by declaring Scrabble the 5th element of Hip Hop, blending humor, wordplay, and hip-hop wisdom in a way only Hov can. The conversation captures the kind of real-time energy and unexpected moments that make HOT 97 a true home for culture.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.