We Speak Indie Artist
Jess and The Bandits Make Exciting Return With New Hit “God Did Good”
Jess and The Bandits’ new single, “God Did Good,” is like a cool breeze on a hot summer day—refreshing, satisfying, and exactly what you didn’t know you needed. The track blends country charm with a dash of pop and rock, creating a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. It’s the kind of song that makes you tap your foot without realizing it, and before long, you’re humming along to the chorus.
From the moment the track kicks off, it’s clear that Jess and The Bandits have crafted a song with broad appeal. The production, handled by Derek Hanes, is crisp and vibrant, allowing each element to shine without overpowering the others. The guitars add a bit of grit, the drums keep things moving, and the vocals—well, they’re the real star here.
Jessica Clemmons delivers a vocal performance that’s full of confidence. Her voice carries the song’s message with ease, making you believe every word she sings. When she hits the line, “When God made you, God did good,” there’s a touch of honesty in her tone that’s hard to resist. It’s clear that this song comes from a place of genuine joy, and that’s what makes it so enjoyable to listen to.
Lyrically, “God Did Good” is straightforward but effective. It’s a celebration of that special someone who seems to have been made just for you, with lines that are catchy enough to stick in your head after the first listen. The simplicity of the lyrics works in the song’s favor, allowing the melody and vocals to take center stage.
What’s particularly noteworthy about this single is the sense of fun that runs through it. Jess and The Bandits aren’t trying to reinvent the wheel here—they’re just having a good time, and it shows. There’s a lightness to the track that makes it easy to enjoy, whether you’re a long-time fan of the band or hearing them for the first time.
In the end, “God Did Good” is a feel-good track that’s sure to find a spot on many playlists. It’s upbeat, catchy, and full of life—everything you want in a summer anthem. As Jess and The Bandits gear up for the release of their new album Jessica, this single is a fabulous teaser of what to possibly expect, which means we could be in for a real treat.
Tune in below…
We Speak Hip-Hop
NY Rapper Kendu 718 Defines “Gritty” (Single & Exclusive Interview)
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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