We Speak Indie Artist

HJ Soul Returns With Outstanding New Track “Get What I Want”

Published

3 years ago

June 30, 2023

Music4U

Known for his soulful sound and thought-provoking lyrics, HJ Soul has captivated audiences worldwide, and the R&B/soul singer-songwriter is back with his electrifying new single, “Get What I Want”. With the release of his latest track, the UK artist takes us on a nostalgic journey back to the late ‘90s and early ‘00s garage era, all while delivering a profound message of overcoming life’s challenges with faith and courage.

HJ Soul began his career by enchanting listeners with his moving renditions of popular soul songs from the past few decades. His talent quickly garnered attention, and he soon ventured into songwriting, allowing him to share his personal journey and explore spiritual themes. The release of his 2022 EP, Soul Desires, introduced a fresh contemporary R&B sound to his repertoire, gaining significant momentum among listeners. One track in particular, “Fantasy”, struck a chord with fans, further establishing HJ Soul as a rising star in the industry.

Last year, HJ Soul also released an album, All in the Mind, which delved into the concepts of the mind and spirituality. He explored this theme further on the powerful 2023 single “Can’t Take This Anymore”, aimed at raising awareness for mental health – a topic of utmost importance in today’s world.

Now, HJ Soul makes a remarkable return with “Get What I Want”, a track that fuses his soulful vocals with the infectious energy of UK garage music. However, “Get What I Want” goes beyond being just a UK garage/dance song; it delves deep into the trials and tribulations of life, emphasising the importance of faith, courage and self-awareness in overcoming obstacles and achieving one’s aspirations. HJ Soul believes that with these attributes and the support of the people around us, anything is possible.

Speaking about his new single, HJ Soul shares, “The lyrics talk about the difficulties and challenges of life and how faith and courage has been needed to surpass obstacles and hurdles. It talks about the possibilities we can achieve with our abilities and that faith is all it takes and self-awareness, and people around you can help you get there as well.” “Get What I Want” arrives alongside a remastered version, and both are available to buy/stream now on all platforms.

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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.