Jim Jones steps in as special guest host on Mornings With Mero for a wild Friday episode packed with stories, laughs, and classic hip-hop talk. Jim opens up about his early hustle, basketball dreams, living in Los Angeles, his first solo record “Certified Gangsters” getting played on Hot 97, and the legendary NYC club era that eventually had him on the radar of the infamous Hip-Hop Police. He also talks about his latest project The Landlord, working with Fabolous, Dave East and Mase, the unique brotherhood they’ve built, and why he wants Fabolous to drop some new music.

Plus, Jim reflects on attending Jay-Z’s Yankee Stadium shows, his upcoming 9 A.M. Banger performance, and takes over Hip Hop Jeopardy, giving away tickets to see Chris Brown and Usher. Then things get completely out of pocket during the YouTube-exclusive Pause Game, where Jim has to rate some of the wildest bars in hip-hop history. From Biggie and Canibus to DMX and Big Pun, the crew delivers one of the funniest Magic Hours yet.

Watch the full episode and catch the moments that had the whole studio and YouTube chat going crazy.

Catch Mornings with Mero on HOT 97, Weekdays from 6am-10am

<p>Catch Mornings with Mero on HOT 97, Weekdays from 6am-10am</p>

HOT 97 Mornings with Mero

HOT 97 Mornings with Mero is a weekday morning radio show on New York's Hot 97 (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. EST), hosted by The Kid Mero (Joel Martinez) starting January 2026. The show features Mero's signature Bronx energy, comedic commentary, current events with a focus on New York City and hip-hop culture.  

<p><a href="https://hot97.com" data-ved="2ahUKEwi00rqp6cKSAxWJFFkFHQ8FKYoQgK4QegQIARAB" data-hveid="CAEQAQ" data-processed="true">HOT 97 Mornings with Mero</a>&nbsp;is a weekday morning radio show on New York's&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rap-up.com/article/the-kid-mero-new-hot-97-morning-show-host" data-processed="true">Hot 97</a> (6 a.m. to 10 a.m. EST), hosted by The Kid Mero (Joel Martinez) starting January 2026. The show features Mero's signature Bronx energy, comedic commentary, current events with a focus on New York City and hip-hop culture.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>