The crew dives into the latest Vlad TV controversy as N.O.R.E. calls in to speak on his issues with Vlad and his frustrations surrounding the way Black culture and hip hop are represented and monetized. The conversation gets heated as they break down accusations of culture vulture behavior, the use of the N-word, hip hop beef and the ongoing debate over who gets to profit from and participate in the culture. The crew also compares Vlad’s place in hip hop media to other artists and personalities who have faced similar conversations about authenticity and cultural connection.

Then it’s time for Hip Hop Jeopardy, with A Boogie tickets up for grabs as callers put their music knowledge to the test. The crew also welcomes the organizers behind Battle of Jollof to talk about the Nigeria vs. Ghana rivalry, African culture, food, basketball, fashion and the growing global impact of the event. They break down what fans can expect when Battle of Jollof comes to Brooklyn on September 12 at the Major R. Owens facility in Crown Heights.

Plus, more conversations, jokes, hot takes and NYC energy throughout the morning with the HOT 97 crew.

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>