Music is therapy for many. An outlet for some to release their emotions when there are no words to explain how one feels. From lyrics to a beat to a melody, every part of a song plays a magical role. But what about the artist? How did they get to where they are today? How did Fergie or Beyonce or The Weekend even get to this level of fame? Where did their journey all begin?

For some artists it's connections or pure luck, but for many it is years of independent hard work and dedication. There are plenty of "starving artists" who spend every day trying to make their name known and on their own dime without the help from mom & dad.

For me, one of those stories hits very close to home. As a fan, my musical tastes are eclectic, endlessly exposing me to new artists. The endless exploration of genres has introduced me to some of the most talented musicians in the world.

Christian Nance, most commonly known as "Nance", is an independent rapper from Wake Forest, North Carolina who is trying to change the hip hop music game one day at a time. From writing and recording his own EP's to putting on his own shows to designing his own merchandise, he has made a huge impact in his town and in the independent music industry.

Nance started writing music when he was 15 but music took on a more serious role in his life in 2010. With over two thousand Instagram followers and almost five thousand Twitter followers, it is safe to say his fans, both old and new, aren't going anywhere anytime soon. When speaking with Nance about his music adventure so far, I got to know him on a deeper level and gain a better understanding of how much his music career and all of his hard work means to him.

I got him to open up and let me in on some of the hardest and most rewarding parts about working in the music industry when you do it all on your own. "The hardest part about making it into the music world on my own is balancing everything," said Nance. "I'm constantly playing a balancing game when it comes to my music life, social life, etc. I'm also managing everything behind the scenes when it comes to my music. Basically I write my songs, record them, book shows, come up with video concepts, merchandise ideas and more. I love being hands on and involved in everything, but sometimes it can be a lot to balance. It's difficult but I love it.'

Like I said, it isn't all long days & long nights with no positive outcome. It is clear that Nance loves what he does and wouldn't change it for the world. "I could go on and on about what is rewarding about my career path. It's just a great feeling to do what I love and to have fun with it," he said. "I've been rewarded with some amazing opportunities, I've met some great people throughout my ventures, and it only feels like just the beginning.'

Being not only a fan of Nance's but a friend is so rewarding. Watching such a talented guy grow everyday in his career and flourish into such a talented artist is so beyond exciting. He is such an inspiration to many. He is a humble person who truly just wants to make a difference. He told me "I just want to keep pushing in order to make everyone proud. That's truly what's inspiring about chasing my dreams."

It's true when they say, "when words fail, music speaks." Whether music is your therapy, a way to escape from the world, or your passion in life, it's safe to say that the majority of us in this crazy world share something very beautiful.