We Speak Indie Artist
Austin Fox 狐 Reveals Latest Album Genkurō 源九郎
Rising Virginia rapper Austin Fox 狐 has unveiled his latest masterpiece in the form of brand-new album Genkurō 源九郎. This album weaves a captivating narrative inspired by Japanese culture, mythology and martial arts philosophy, delivering a profound musical experience that transcends boundaries.
Genkurō 源九郎, a shapeshifting fox spirit, takes centre stage in this unique musical journey. In Japanese lore, the fox spirit is known for its role in assisting Minamoto Yoshitsune against the forces of Yoshitsune’s own brother, Yoritomo Yoshitsune. Austin’s deep appreciation for anime and Japanese culture, reflected in the Japanese kanji for “fox” in his name (狐), motivated him to create a project that pays homage to these influences while connecting them to his personal life.
As Austin Fox 狐 explains, “Genkurō 源九郎 is a story of love and dedication to one’s craft. It is a take on loyalty to yourself and those around you who deserve it. It is another opportunity to discover who I am as an individual.”
The album draws inspiration from the teachings of Japan’s legendary swordsman, Miyamoto Musashi, who went undefeated in over 60 duels and authored the famous Book of Five Rings. Musashi’s philosophy emphasises the importance of strategy and discipline in mastering swordplay and, by extension, life itself. Each of the book’s five sections corresponds to one of the elements (earth, water, fire, wind, void/space). Austin Fox 狐 found a serendipitous connection to Musashi’s themes in his own discography, where his first five project releases unintentionally align with these elements. This realisation inspired the creation of Genkurō 源九郎 as the sixth release in his catalogue.
The album delves into themes of loyalty and love, building upon the artist’s previous works such as Ranger396v and SCORIAN VALLEY. Austin Fox 狐 explores the loyalty exhibited by Genkurō toward Yoshitsune, mirroring the loyalty he feels toward his closest allies and his lover. Genkurō 源九郎 serves as a culmination of the lessons learned from his previous projects, offering a refined and skilful execution of his artistic vision.
One notable aspect of Genkurō 源九郎 is that it marks the first time Austin Fox 狐 has chosen not to feature any other artists on his album. The creative process for this album was a natural and deeply personal journey, resulting in verses and songs that exceeded his own expectations.
The album’s focus track, “Lady Shizuka”, exemplifies the overarching theme of love and dedication. Through its poignant lyrics, Austin Fox 狐 emphasises the importance of his relationship, acknowledging the brilliance of his lover and his commitment to resolving any challenges that arise.
Genkurō 源九郎 is more than just an album; it’s a testament to the power of artistic expression and self-discovery. Austin Fox 狐 invites listeners to embark on this extraordinary musical adventure, exploring the depths of love, loyalty and personal growth. Genkurō 源九郎 is available to buy/stream now on all platforms.
Keep up to date with the latest from Austin Fox 狐:
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.
Stream “Gritty” on preferred platforms – Gritty
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