We Speak Hip-Hop

Baltimore’s GAWDS say “Oh No” with new single!

Published

2 months ago

February 16, 2026

Baltimore hip-hop collective GAWDS return with The Care Package (album available via all streaming services now). First single “Oh No” packs the braggadocious, lyrical attack that the quartet is known for, however, the album expands the usual boom-bap center of the group’s past releases as well. As Regulus (one of the group’s emcees/producer) relayed “this album displays a lot more of L3’s (singer/emcee) R&B and Soul sensibilities as opposed to our usual classic boom-bap approach. The result is our most diverse, introspective and personal release.”Listen to “Oh No”:https://youtu.be/L_0wn29RYgA?si=ywNVYS5Eb5DFqhxi Rounded out by Pinpoint (emcee) and DJ Rocky Styles the album touches a variety of topics in the first-hand perspective. Two examples of this are the tracks “New Life” which touches upon Regulus’ recent divorce and “I’m Not Here” which Regulus said “was written to acknowledge father’s, which we think there is a serious void of in hip-hop tracks., particularly meaningful exchanges between fathers and sons. Ultimately this album is about love in its various forms and what that looks like during good times and bad times.”

However, don’t think it’s all sweet, there’s tracks like “Katt Williams” inspired by the comedian’s legendary interview with Shannon Sharpe where he aired his personal grievances with other artists. The GAWDS took that example of truth to air out former friends and fellow artists who earned their scorn.

Mostly a family affair, album guests include Baltimore Brethren including Clif Love, Briana La Barz, Pete The Dark Truth, Richard Cranium and Kardo The Don. However, the album also welcomes two San Antonio, Texas artists Spy MC and Blazy Green that the group built with last summer while on tour. As Regulus recalls “the track ‘Change Up’ feat Spy MC was written and recorded right after we got off the plane. The recording session was from 1am-4am.”

More info:https://www.instagram.com/gawds_410/

We Speak Hip-Hop

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

Published

10 hours 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.