New York’s legendary hip-hop station Hot 97 has its sight set on generating some streets buzz once again. The station confirmed that a major announcement is coming Monday, January 12, 2026, at noon. This time centered on its signature morning show. The branding, title, and host lineup remain under wraps, sparking plenty of speculation across social media. Some of that speculation is centered on hip hop personalities with practically no radio experience. That would not be a smart move. We expect a few of the personalities below, promoting the announcement, to be a part of the new morning show.
While others think Hot 97 should bring back someone from the past…
For decades, the morning show slot on Hot 97 has been one of the most influential voices in hip-hop culture, formerly headlined by figures like Miss Jones, Star and Buc Wild, and Ed Lover. Each defined different eras in the station’s sound. But today’s radio landscape looks very different. Gen Z and millennial listeners are more digital, more socially plugged-in, and less likely to rely on traditional morning radio for their hip-hop fix. That reality makes it increasingly likely that Hot 97 will turn to a fresher, younger on-air personality rather than reviving a name from the past.
Industry observers suspect the next voice of Hot 97’s morning show could come from inside the building, rather than from the outside. Names circulating in radio circles include DJ Camilo, Mike Medium, Drew Ski, and the Tri-State of Mind Saturday morning crew. Each of whom already has a connection if not to the station’s audience, but with their followers on social media, which can drive listeners to the station.
All of those options reflect a clear direction toward the next generation. None of them carry the baggage or nostalgia of the New York shock-jock era, and all understand the language of viral culture, real-time engagement, and brand collaboration that defines audiences today.
Whether Hot 97 crowns a familiar station personality or introduces an entirely new face(s), Monday’s announcement is poised to mark a transition toward the future. The only certainty right now: when noon strikes on January 12, all eyes and ears will be on Hot 97.
The last time Hot 97 made an announcement it caused a buzz and more from New York City listeners who thought these guys and gal were going to hold down the morning show…