WQHT, also known by its call sign "Hot 97," is a radio station based in New York City. It is a popular urban contemporary radio station that primarily broadcasts hip hop, R&B, and rap music. WQHT is known for its influential role in the hip hop industry, as it has been a key platform for discovering and promoting emerging artists and showcasing the latest trends in urban music.
Established in 1940, WQHT has a long-standing history in the broadcasting industry. It became particularly relevant in the early 1990s when it shifted its format to focus on urban contemporary music. This transition helped shape the station as a pioneer in the hip hop genre, attracting a large audience of urban music enthusiasts.
WQHT has also gained recognition for its various on-air personalities, including prominent disc jockeys and talk show hosts who have played significant roles in the station's success. They engage the audience with engaging discussions, interviews with artists, and lively on-air banter.
Furthermore, WQHT has provided a platform for the annual "Summer Jam" concert, one of the largest hip hop festivals in the country. This event attracts renowned artists, both established and emerging, and has become an iconic gathering for hip hop enthusiasts.
Overall, WQHT, or Hot 97, has solidified its position as a prominent urban contemporary radio station, playing a vital role in promoting and shaping the hip hop and R&B music scene in New York City and beyond.
