New York, NY – September 4, 2025 – Iconic hip-hop radio station Hot 97 has announced significant changes to its weekday programming, effective immediately following Labor Day. The most prominent shift sees legendary DJ Funkmaster Flex moving to the highly coveted 5 PM to 10 PM time slot, a prime-time position that commands significant listener attention. Concurrently, veteran DJ Enuff has been released from the station, marking the end of a long tenure for the respected personality.
This strategic realignment sees a cascade of changes across the station’s schedule. Nessa Nitty will transition to the 1 PM to 5 PM slot, while DJ Drewski will take over the 11 AM to 1 PM broadcast. DJ Camilo is set to occupy the 4 PM to 5 PM hour, leading into Funkmaster Flex’s new prime-time show.
Funkmaster Flex, a cornerstone of Hot 97 since its transition to a hip-hop format in November 1992, expressed his enthusiasm for the new time slot, promising a “special music mix” to celebrate the transition. His move signifies a renewed focus on his prime-time presence, aiming to capture the city’s attention during the crucial evening commute and beyond. Flex, whose real name is Aston George Taylor Jr., has been a continuous presence at the station for over three decades, making him one of its most enduring voices in hip-hop music.
The departure of DJ Enuff, a fixture at Hot 97 for 27 years, has sent ripples through the hip-hop community. Enuff, whose career at the station began in 1998, previously served as The Notorious B.I.G.’s road DJ and was known for his mixes on various shows, including “The Angie Martinez Show.” In a social media post, Enuff thanked listeners for “27 unforgettable years,” stating that while the chapter at Hot 97 may be closing, his journey in music continues.
Sources confirm that the changes were part of a broader programming overhaul, with some reports suggesting that Funkmaster Flex’s shift may have played a role in DJ Enuff’s exit. However, Flex himself has publicly denied any involvement in Enuff’s firing, expressing his affection and respect for his colleague.
Hot 97’s EVP, Growth and Content, Kudjo Sogadzi, emphasized the station’s commitment to its audience and its role in hip-hop culture. “HOT 97 is the voice of the streets, the soundtrack of New York, and the heartbeat of Hip Hop culture,” Sogadzi stated. “This lineup reflects the best in music, personality, and connection with our audience, whether they’re tuning in from the Tri-State area or anywhere in the world.” Assistant Program Director Katrina B added, “We give our audience the voices they love and the energy they need, no matter what time of day they tune in.”
The station’s programming now features “Ebro in the Morning” from 5 AM to 11 AM, followed by DJ Drewski from 11 AM to 1 PM. Nessa Nitty anchors the afternoon from 1 PM to 5 PM, with DJ Camilo covering the 4 PM to 5 PM hour. Funkmaster Flex then takes over from 5 PM to 10 PM, rounding out the primetime block. This revised schedule aims to maintain Hot 97’s position as a leading platform for hip-hop music and culture, ensuring listeners have access to top personalities and the latest music trends throughout the day.
The lineup changes reflect Hot 97’s ongoing strategy to adapt to the evolving media landscape while staying true to its core identity as the premier destination for hip-hop. The station continues to leverage its digital platforms, including its website and app, to reach listeners beyond traditional radio waves, reinforcing its commitment to keeping the culture alive and accessible.
This significant shift marks a new era for Hot 97, with veteran hosts moving into new roles and longtime personalities departing. The station’s leadership expressed confidence that the new lineup will resonate with its dedicated fanbase and continue to deliver the high-quality programming that has defined Hot 97 for decades, solidifying its status as a top voice in the hip-hop world.
