When we think of the word perseverance, we think of a number of things: The guy who was friend-zoned the whole movie only to get the girl at the end. The little engine that could. Dirk Nowitzki.

What we don’t think of as much is the independent musician. Kentucky rapper Elz Bentley is looking to change that narrative. With more than a decade behind him as a recording artist, Bentley is finally reaping the benefits of his never say die (take no Elz) attitude. Regularly doubling his previous year’s numbers as of late, the peripherals are starting to keep pace. Touring, metaverse concerts and crypto partnerships are just a few headlines that 2022 brought. As well as the replay value of “Mojave Ghost.” The bouncy, confessional single that captivated listeners all year. The accompanying music video gives a documentary style look into the life and growth of a local legend. You know what else we call that? Perseverance.