She's a rising junior at UNC. He's a New York University graduate who is earning his MBA at N.C. Central University. If you saw them out and about, they wouldn't seem any different from other young adults.

The Durham duo began their entertainment careers at young ages through acting, but their creative talents led them to the microphone. Now performing as Relative-T, the siblings are hosting a listening party on Friday for their first album.

Half of the album's proceeds will benefit the John Avery Boys & Girls Club's Summer FUN Camp Program.

The Durham News recently talked with the pair about hip-hop, life and giving back.

So why rap?

JOEL: We can't sing. I've always liked hip-hop ever since I was younger. Going back into the early '90s. It's the pulse of the people. Hip-hop is a culture, a movement. I like to write poetry, and it built from there.

KRYSTIN: It's so fundamental, and we wanted to have a voice for the young people, particularly in the African-American community.

What do you guys rap about?

KRYSTIN: We have a variety of songs, but mostly things we've experienced personally or other people experienced. For instance, one of our songs is called 'I Got It,' and it's about swag and I got it, you want it. It's about having confidence and having something you feel other people want.

JOEL: We try to make music people can relate to. We have a song called 'Just Got Paid.' It's the payday anthem. It's about paying your bills and doing whatever you want. It's about something that people can relate to.

Have you learned anything about yourselves while putting this album together?

JOEL: You're capable of much more than you may realize. I would encourage everyone that if you have a dream, you can build it from the ground up. That's what we did. And it's not over yet. This is our first project, and we're going to expand from here into film and television.

KRYSTIN: I've learned how you can change over time. Listening to myself when I first stated rapping to now, I've matured. Practice is important and a good work ethic. I've learned patience mostly with recording. Having to re-record over and over again until it sounds exactly right. Being corporative with other people and realizing that this isn't a selfish thing because I'm not going to be just listening to my music. It's for everyone and not just what Krystin wants to hear.

So why benefit the Boys and Girls Club?

JOEL: We had the opportunity to go to summer camps and after-school programs. But everyone doesn't have that opportunity. We think is very important for children to be involved in structured and enriching activities to facilitate their growth. And the John Avery Boys & Girls Club fills that gap.

KRYSTIN: There's no reason a child should be forced to stay at home because of financial reasons. Summer camps are experiences that can never be replaced.

What advice do you have for others trying to do what you two are doing now?

KRYSTIN: Follow your dreams, and don't let anyone stop you from what you believe in. And keep the faith.

JOEL: People wait for their big break, but you're going to have to do some work and put some effort and time into it.