Indie rapper coming for his reign, Kendu 718, presents his
new single & video produced by Juxx Diamondz by way of Back Block Music
Group LLC. "Gritty" is minutes of aggressive NY Hip Hop looped with a
signature blend of lyricism, storytelling, and slick metaphors. Kendu's message
is simple; he's writing bars and putting out heat. His deliverance, while mean mugging,
intimidates. Bushwick, graffiti marked walls is Kendu’s background. Watch
"Gritty" and get to know Kendu 718 in the interview below.
MJ: Before we jump into your new single/video "Gritty," take a moment to let the world know who Kendu 718 is.
Kendu 718: Kendu 718 is someone who really lives what he talks
about. I come from the pain of the ghetto—both my mother and father struggled
with drug addiction, and growing up, all I saw was crime, poverty, and
hardship. That was my environment. But through God’s grace, I was able to
change my life. I left the streets behind 17 years ago, and I’ve been clean and
abstinent from drugs and alcohol ever since.
MJ: When I think of gritty New York Hip Hop, you
fit the mark. Define your lane in Hip Hop.
Kendu 718: I’m part of the culture, this isn’t something I picked
up, it’s something I’ve lived. Hip-hop is a lifestyle, not just something you
do in the studio. I’m not chasing trends or trying to fit into what’s popular.
I represent authenticity, experience, and real New York energy. I’ve been doing
this for years, and my lane is staying true to the essence of the culture.
MJ: Let’s talk about the new single
"Gritty." What can listeners expect once they hit play?
Kendu 718: The truth. Straight up. Real-life stories that reflect
what I’ve been through and what I’ve seen in the streets. It’s raw, it’s
honest, and it shows survival. When you hit play, you’re stepping into
reality—no gimmicks, no filters. “Gritty” is my story. It’s everything I lived
and everything I witnessed. But more importantly, it’s a message—just because
we come from struggle doesn’t mean we have to stay there. We can grow, change,
and build responsible, productive lives.
Stream “Gritty” on preferred platforms - Gritty
MJ: How did you link up with Juxx Diamondz and
Back Block Music Group LLC?
Kendu 718: That connection goes back. I met Juxx
through a mutual friend—rest in peace to the OG Benny Hill from Harlem, who
managed both of us around 2011–2012. That foundation built real chemistry, and
from there, everything developed naturally.
MJ: What is next for Kendu 718? What are you
currently working on?
Kendu 718: Right now, I’m working on my EP
titled From God’s Mouth to Y’all Ears: The Sermon. It’s produced by myself
and Juxx Diamondz, with additional production from SaulyOBeats, SkullzAngels,
and my guy Dreadful Krueger. Everybody brought heat to the project. We also
have some dope features on it.
MJ: Give audiences a little more insight into
the sound and movement behind the project.
Kendu 718: We’re putting this out independently through Back Block
Music Group, with distribution through Roc Nation. The project is a combination
of strong lyricism, real-life storytelling, and powerful features. We represent
that golden era sound—we’re keeping that foundation alive. And we’re always
boots on the ground, staying connected to the people and the culture.
MJ: Let everyone know where they can find your
music and stay connected.
Kendu 718: You can find my music on all digital streaming
platforms. Follow me @Kendu_718 on Instagram to stay locked in. This is just
the beginning—it’s going to be a hot summer. Peace.
BONUS VIDEO
.PNG)