Hot 97 is going through a lot of alleged shake-ups recently due to layoffs, and it's led to a lot of public scrutiny against the company. This includes some remarks from their on-air talent, specifically Mero and Kazeem on Mornings With Mero. During a recent broadcast, they went off on the radio station's ownership. This discussion led to more claims from former Hot 97 producer Scottie Beam and a statement from contributing Hot 97 journalist Bryson "Boom" Paul.
As for the on-air grievances, Victor Baez caught the clip on Twitter of the "Mind of Mero" segment, where the cohosts (alongside fellow colleagues Miabelle, Shani Kulture, and DJ Kast One) talked about talent. "You can have the best team in the world. But if your GM stinks, and if your coach doesn't know how to coach or run the plays, you’re not going to win," The Kid Mero remarked. "That extends to every business industry in the world... The places where you win is where there is what I like to call executive-level talent."
"Y'all have them weekly meetings, and it’s a guy who gets paid two more zeros than you, and you’re like, what does this guy even do? That’s a question I find myself asking a lot," he added. The host told folks to not be discouraged in the age of independent media.
Mero On Hot 97
Then, Kaz chimed in. "This is the worst place I've ever worked in my life," he remarked. Kazeem claimed that, despite having better ratings than the main competition, they don't have good resources and have to depend on a "miracle" to make things work for the audience. He went on to further disparage the Hot 97 higher-ups for their inefficiency, showing love to the talent, producers, and technical staff behind the shows.
Kaz said he understands the tough situation that affected the previous morning show with Ebro Darden, Peter Rosenberg, and Laura Stylez, displaying solidarity. He emphasized doing this for the love of the game, despite the rough situation they are alleging.
This rant quickly went viral, and resulted in more comments from Scottie Beam. As caught by Blanco Tarantino TV, LLC on Twitter, she took to Threads to speak on the Hot 97 drama and levy more claims against them. "They've 'furloughed' every DJ on Hot 97," Beam alleged. "They are NOT paying their employees. They are not even paying rent on their space. Media co don't give a f**k about Hot 97 or WBLS. Morning, afternoon, and evening drive personalities are not furloughed. Them weekend DJs and personalities/hosts are gone... for both HOT & WBLS."
Bryson "Boom" Paul took to Twitter to confirm his departure due to the alleged layoffs. He thanked those who brought him to the station, collaborated, and guided him in the process.
