Elmont, NY—–Summer Jam 2023 proved once again what Hip-Hop fans have always known—New York City shows up and shows out. Despite the trek to the new venue at UBS Arena in Elmont, NY, on June 4, the payoff was more than worth it. The event delivered a vibrant mix of rising stars and seasoned icons, keeping the spirit of the genre alive and thriving.
In a strategic move to dodge the usual downpour that tends to hit the annual event, organizers shifted Summer Jam from its longtime home at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey to the indoor arena on Long Island. The venue change wasn’t just about weather—it was about reinvention.
“Everything needs reinvention,” said MediaCo CEO Rahsan Rahsan-Lindsay in a pre-show chat with VIBE. “People can get tired of the same routine—it becomes predictable. So you have to find new ways to keep the excitement alive.”
And reinvent they did. Outside the arena, early birds gathered at the Warner Records stage, where the energy kicked off strong with performances from up-and-comers like Connie Diiamond, Scar Lip, and Pheelz. For many, it was their first time gracing the Summer Jam stage—an unforgettable milestone. Special appearances by NLE Choppa and French Montana hyped the crowd even further ahead of their Main Stage performances.
One of the most striking elements of this year’s Summer Jam was the undeniable presence and power of women. According to TT Torrez, VP of Artist and Label Relations, featuring artists like Cardi B, Coi Leray, and GloRilla was essential.
“Women are just dominating,” said Torrez. “Not just this year, but for the past few years. Summer Jam has historically been male-heavy, reflecting the industry. But this year? It’s a clear mirror of what women have been doing in the culture.”
Among the standout women was Brooklyn’s own Lola Brooke. Her set was electrifying, with intricate choreography and high energy, enhanced even more by an unexpected boost from Harlem’s Teyana Taylor—who danced along from the crowd and helped choreograph the set in just two rehearsal sessions. Their connection was palpable, and Lola’s performance left a mark.
Then came Ice Spice, proudly representing the Bronx. With her rapid rise to fame—charting Top 10 hits and collaborations with the likes of Nicki Minaj and Taylor Swift—her presence felt like a full-circle moment. She brought out Lil TJay for their collab “Gangsta Boo” and surprised fans by inviting Flo Milli, Kali, and Kenzo B to share the stage—an act of unity in a space too often shaped by rivalry.
For DJ Enuff, one moment stood out on a personal level. His son, producer RIOTUSA, played a major role in shaping Ice Spice’s sound—and now, his performance at Summer Jam marked a proud milestone.
“I’m excited to see my son perform,” DJ Enuff said. “It’s like LeBron wanting to stay in the game to play alongside his son. I’ve been around long enough to see mine not just make it—but thrive.”
