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Emerging Rapper Casper Merci Unveils Outstanding New Track “100 Foot Limousine”

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Enamoured by the songwriting of legends like Mac Miller, Earl Sweatshirt and MF DOOM, and influenced by the boundary-pushing sonics of producers like The Alchemist, Flying Lotus and Madlib, Casper Merci from Indianapolis is expanding the possibilities of hip-hop to create a sound all his own. His reverence for the musicians that impacted him since a young age has pushed him to develop a sonic palate that many hip-hop fans are sure to resonate with, as can be heard on his new single, “100 Foot Limousine”.

“100 Foot Limousine” commands attention straight away with its throwback old-school hip-hop production. Casper’s skill on the mic is undeniable, and he complements the production perfectly with his effortless flow and smooth delivery. Releasing his music independently under his own label, LOVEHARD Records, this 23-year-old rising artist, producer and engineer displays ingenuity beyond his years that is sure to captivate listeners as it becomes clearer with each release that he is one to watch.

Speaking further on “100 Foot Limousine”, Casper says, “I’ve always loved blending sounds and samples ‘in the box’ with live acoustic instruments and think this track is a perfect example of it. When me and Eli (@prodblackcode) made the beat, it was such a vibe that I wrote the whole hook and first verse on the spot before he left my house that day. I wanted this song to embody that feeling of living life to the fullest, being unapologetically yourself and not letting anything get in the way of pursuing your dreams.” “100 Foot Limousine” is available to buy/stream now on all platforms.

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

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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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