We Speak Indie Artist
LA Rapper Chris Siders Shares Thought-Provoking Track “The Invisible Man”
Eminent amongst the Los Angeles and Monterey County spoken word scenes, LA-born artist Chris Siders has set out to deliver exciting, innovative and brutally honest storytelling in the world of hip-hop/rap. The rising LA Rapper Chris Siders only dropped his debut single, “Lately” (feat. Nana Razaia), in February 2022, but it’s already clear what a special talent he is, and this is no more evident than on his new single, “The Invisible Man”.
The track highlights Chris’ impressive lyricism, as well as his elite flow and delivery. Possessing all the right elements needed for a quality hip-hop track, it will surely help continue Chris’ rise in the music scene following his debut earlier this year. Speaking more on the new release, LA Rapper Chris Siders says, “‘The Invisible Man’ is inspired by the book by Ralph Ellison of the same title and tackles issues surrounding the stereotypes of young black African American males.
“Growing up I faced a ton of imposter syndrome based on who the world was telling me I was. My high school criminalised me and labelled me as a troublemaker for getting into fights every other week. They did not know that I was simply defending myself from bullies who were taunting me and physically harming me because I am of a darker skin complexion. In the chorus I rap, ‘Runnin’ from myself / I ain’t a killer though / Paint whatever image / I present the picture though.’ In addition to getting bullied by colourist classmates, I felt this world does not care about young dark black individuals. I felt and even to this very day I feel invisible.”
Cultivated by the lyrical works of Nas, Lupe Fiasco, Kendrick Lamar, Saul Williams and Phonte, and coupled with the boundless obscure aesthetics anime provides, Chris Siders creates a world where listeners can escape the daily hardships of life and at the same time face childhood and adulthood traumas. Tackling these issues head on with immeasurable talent, Chris is proving to be an icon in the making with a huge future ahead. “The Invisible Man” is available to buy/stream now on all platforms: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/chrissiders/the-invisible-man.
Keep up to date with the latest from Chris Siders:
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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