A star studded lineup took the stage at the Hammerstein Ballroom in New York City last night (November 29) for the first annual J.A.M. Awards in honor of slain Run-DMC DJ Jam Master Jay. The awards were conceived as a way to both memorialize Jay, and recognize artists who promote social responsibility through Justice, Arts and Music (J.A.M.). Rolling Stone reports Kid Capri warmed up the crowd with a DJ set before De La Soul and Mobb Deep kicked off the show with renditions of classics from their respective catalogs such as “Buddy” and “Shook Ones.” M1 and stic man of dead prez presented the Justice Award to Public Enemy front man Chuck D, who was unable to attend, before EPMD took the stage and ran through some of their signature hits like “You Gots to Chill” and “Headbanger.” The Long Island duo was then joined onstage by LL Cool J who kicked a verse before relinquishing the stage to Snoop Dogg. The Doggfather took it back with classics like “187” and “Gin & Juice,” while proclaiming his love for New York City. Next up was Brooklyn duo M.O.P. and former House of Pain front man Everlast, who spit some Run-DMC lyrics while strumming a guitar. Wyclef Jean, who also missed the event, won the Music Award before dead prez, Papoose, and Dipset (Jim Jones and Juelz Santana) prepped the crowd for the final set by Raekwon. The Chef closed out the show with 90’s staples like “Criminology” and “Ice Cream” before closing the show and thanking everybody for coming out.

CLICK HERE to read Rolling Stone's full report of the event.

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