We Speak Indie Artist

Akuchi Debuts Captivating New Track “No Games”

Published

2 years ago

November 21, 2023

Music4U

Nigerian born and raised artist Akuchi Amadi Osayaba, known simply as Akuchi, has unveiled his latest single, “No Games”. This motivational and infectious hip-hop track is poised to captivate audiences worldwide with its powerful message of determination and a refusal to play games in the music industry.

Akuchi, who was born in Warri and now based in Lagos, draws from his unique background, being born to Igbo and Benin parents and raised in different parts of the country. His early musical influences include iconic artists such as M.I (Mr Incredible), Michael Jackson, 50 Cent, Lil Wayne, Future, Young Thug, Stormzy, Wizkid, Davido and Burna Boy, who ignited his passion for music. Akuchi’s upbringing, filled with diverse experiences, has instilled in him an appreciation for unity through diversity, a perspective that he skilfully weaves into his art.

Akuchi’s new single, “No Games”, is a testament to his commitment to breaking free from expectations and genre limitations. The track boasts an international sound, a conscious decision on his part to carve out his unique path in the music world. Rather than adhering to preconceived notions of what a Nigerian artist should sound like, Akuchi is pioneering a fresh and innovative sound of his own, emphasising the unity present in all forms of music and human experiences.

Speaking further on the new single, Akuchi shares, “I wrote ‘No Games’ in a tiny apartment in Lagos, Nigeria. I felt like a rebel making this song; I remember them telling me to avoid what they call ‘foreign music’ if I want to blow. As someone born and raised in Nigeria, I know that in Nigeria there is a little box that everyone struggles to squeeze into, but I’m a musician with a global aim, and I’ll put a finger in whatever box I choose.

With “No Games”, Akuchi is poised to inspire and empower listeners to embrace their own unique paths and break free from constraints. Join Akuchi on his musical journey as he defies expectations and encourages us all to play by our own rules. “No Games” is available to buy/stream now on all platforms: https://akuchi.fanlink.to/NoGames.

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We Speak Hip-Hop

NY Rapper Kendu 718 Defines “Gritty” (Single & Exclusive Interview)

Published

4 days ago

April 14, 2026

MJ Savino

Kendu 718 is taking over the scene with his latest single “Gritty,” produced by Juxx Diamondz of Back Block Music Group LLC. The NY rapper shows off his signature blend of storytelling and lyricism woven with slick metaphors. He’s simply writing bars and putting out heat; his deliverance though is aggressive and slightly intimidating; true NY style. Stream “Gritty” and get to know Kendu 718 in the interview below.

MJ: Before we jump into your new single “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.

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: Can audiences anticipate a visual to “Gritty?”

Kendu 718: Definitely. Me and Juxx Diamondz are currently putting the treatment together now. The visual is going to match the energy of the track—raw, authentic, and true to the story.

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.