We Speak Indie Artist

Ten Hawkins Reveals Phenomenal New Single “Pump 3”

Published

3 years ago

October 18, 2023

Music4U

Ten Hawkins, the gifted rising artist hailing from Saluda, South Carolina, has dropped his electrifying new single, “Pump 3”. This track is a tantalising glimpse into his forthcoming album, The Manuel Garcia Chronicles, scheduled for release this November.

Ten has been immersed in music his whole life. From jamming to iconic artists like 69 Boyz, Uncle Luke, R. Kelly, Michael Jackson, 2Pac, Biggie and DMX with his mother as a toddler, to crafting his own rap verses in the third grade, Ten’s journey through the world of music has been marked by dedication and an unyielding desire to contribute to the culture he loves.

With a musical evolution that has spanned several projects, including Too Busy Standing Out (2014), Unwanted Melodies (2015) and Heart Collage (2017), Ten Hawkins has consistently pushed the boundaries of his artistry. His 2019 release, Inspired By You, delved deep into themes of betrayal, heartache, love and new beginnings, showcasing the artist’s growth and introspective songwriting.

Now, after a brief hiatus, Ten Hawkins returns with “Pump 3”, a track that embodies his artistic evolution and sets the stage for his upcoming album. Describing the single, Ten reveals, “This song is an escape for me. I’m constantly reflecting on the past and how it could have been different if I made different choices. But also I always feel like I bear the weight of the world on my shoulders because so many people look up to me and depend on me. So, this record represents my escape – putting 20 dollars on in my gas tank and letting it take me as far away as possible from everything that’s going on in life so I can breathe.”

The creation of “Pump 3” was a collaborative effort, with Ten Hawkins partnering with producer Sean J (Sean James) to bring the song to life. The song’s chorus was originally penned in 2019 to a different instrumental, but it wasn’t until earlier this year that the pieces fell into place. Speaking about the process, Ten shares, “Early this year I was playing it for my producer Sean J and got excited about the feel of the record and asked if he remade the beat for it, would I finish it, and I agreed. He made the beat in about 30 mins, and within an hour and a half, we had a rough version of the whole song completed.”

With its infectious beats, introspective lyrics and Ten Hawkins’ signature storytelling, “Pump 3” is a standout addition to his discography. Fans of his work can expect more of this compelling storytelling and musical growth on his upcoming album. “Pump 3” is 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.