"Knowing it's impossible to make you leave his world, I foolishly waited for a miracle to happen. Until the day you realize, The one who truly loves you bears the pain alone..."
They arrived at a restaurant.
Shen Lang's "Absolutely Devoted" played over the lobby speakers.
Has it spread this far already?
"I just saw a guy near the entrance crying his eyes out. This song is too 'heartbreaking'," Zhou Xun said with a laugh.
"The tenacity of unrequited love, an 18-degree vocal range, and a soul-wrenching cry—each note burrows deep into the listener's heart," Chen Yaochuan remarked, genuinely impressed by Shen Lang's vocal range and control.
"Ten songs, ten kinds of love. Everyone can find their own story in them. You can't help but cry," Gao Yuanyuan added, speaking from experience.
"It's not the catchiness of a song that scares me, but when it pierces your heart. I'd rather recognize myself in the melody than become a character in the lyrics," Old Qi sighed.
Shen Lang remained silent, offering only a faint smile.
That's how songs work. The singer pours their heart into the performance, expressing the emotions. But the listener has so much more to consider.
This confirmed that his strategy of releasing a meticulously crafted debut album to break into the market had been the right move.
At the dinner, Shen Lang became the center of attention.
"You haven't signed with a company yet?" Chen Yaochuan asked, surprised.
That shouldn't be possible.
It had been nearly two months since the release of "Lonely Sandbank Cold" and "Angel's Wings."
How could no company have made a move yet?
"My terms are too strict," Shen Lang said with a shrug. "They're scared off."
"What terms?" Chen Yaochuan asked, curious.
"After signing, the copyright to all my compositions remains mine," Shen Lang replied truthfully.
Chen Yaochuan paused, taken aback.
That makes sense.
Judging by his first album, Shen Lang's songs were all top-tier quality, destined for lasting popularity.
It was understandable that he didn't want to hand over the copyright revenue to a company.
But Chen Yaochuan's plan to sign Shen Lang and include him in New Sony Records' "Mainland China Idol Singer" development project seemed doomed.
Their company would likely never accept such terms.
What should I do?
He desperately wanted to bring Shen Lang under his wing.
This would not only add a unique feather to his cap but also help New Sony Records establish a firm foothold in Mainland China.
"If I can secure this contract for you, would you be willing to join New Sony Records?"
Chen Yaochuan's words stunned everyone present. This wasn't a mere concession; it was a substantial compromise. It clearly demonstrated his confidence in Shen Lang's talent.
"This..."
Chen Yaochuan's offer was so sudden that Shen Lang was momentarily speechless.
What does this mean? he wondered. Has he always been this bold?
First, he wanted to transform Zhou Xun into a "Mainland idol singer." Now, he was willing to accept extremely stringent conditions to sign me.
Pushing aside his surprise, Shen Lang began to consider the offer carefully.
New Sony Records, also known as Sony Music in Hong Kong and Taiwan, was the Chinese branch of Sony Records. Chen Yaochuan served as the head of business development for the company in China, overseeing the development of Chinese artists and products. His roster included renowned artists such as Harlem Yu, Leon Lai, Li Wen, Jeff Chang, Terry Lin, and Wang Leehom.
With its vast resources and proven track record, New Sony Records was undeniably the ideal choice for any aspiring singer.
"If you can meet my condition, I'd be happy to join," Shen Lang replied.
He figured signing with a major label would provide a good stepping stone. Starting his own company during this crucial phase of his career would be unwise. He could negotiate a one- to two-year contract, avoiding the risks of being shelved or other complications.
"Let's see if we can reach an agreement first," Chen Yaochuan said, the "if" revealing his lack of confidence.
"Then wait for my news," Chen Yaochuan decided to give it a try. He turned to Gao Yuanyuan and asked, "Xiao Gao, what about you?"
"Huh? Me?" Gao Yuanyuan pointed at herself, surprised and caught off guard. She quickly waved her hands. "I'm tone-deaf. I can't sing at all."
"No problem, being an actress is good too," Chen Yaochuan said politely, then turned to Shen Lang. "Xiao Shen, hasn't your album been released in Hong Kong, Macau, or Taiwan?"
Shen Lang shook his head. "No, our distribution channels are limited. It's only available in Mainland China for now."
A glint flashed in Chen Yaochuan's eyes. "How about we collaborate?"
"What do you mean, President Chen?" Shen Lang asked.
"Sell us the distribution rights for your album in other regions," Chen Yaochuan explained. "Don't worry, you won't lose out. How does this number sound?" He held up two fingers.
Zhou Xun interjected, "President Chen, only 200,000 yuan?"
And he says I won't lose out?
It's like he could just rob me outright, but he's giving me money and calling it a purchase.
Have I joined a predatory company?
As Zhou Xun's mind raced, Chen Yaochuan chuckled. "Add another zero."
Zhou Xun's eyes widened. "Two million yuan?!"
Gao Yuanyuan and Old Qi gasped in surprise.
Shen Lang, however, remained remarkably calm.
Despite the sluggish record market this year, there were still singers in Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, and Southeast Asia who had sold over a million copies. Faye Wong's new album, Fable, was one such example.
While his fame couldn't compare to Faye Wong's, the overall quality of his album was superior.
Back in the day, Richie Jen, also a newcomer, had sold 26 million copies of his debut album, Too Softhearted. Of course, that figure included pirated copies. But even the official sales had exceeded 2.3 million units. Moreover, that album's success hinged almost entirely on the title track, Too Softhearted. Shen Lang - Radio Love Songs, on the other hand, featured ten songs.
Therefore, Chen Yaochuan's offer of 2 million yuan was entirely within Shen Lang's expectations.
"Then thank you, President Chen," Shen Lang said. He disliked unnecessary formalities. If someone offered sincerity, he reciprocated in kind. Besides, he hadn't yet found alternative distribution channels for his album in other regions.
"Straightforward. I'll have the contract drafted immediately." In truth, the 2 million yuan was also part of Chen Yaochuan's calculations. He was a musician, but also a businessman—he wouldn't pursue anything without profit.
Speed was crucial. With rampant piracy, counterfeiters could start selling pirated cassette tapes and CDs at one-third the price within five days of the official release. To make money, one had to act swiftly.
It was a bright autumn afternoon, the sun warm but not scorching, a gentle breeze carrying a refreshing coolness.
"Let's go for a ride," Shen Lang said.
"Okay!" Gao Yuanyuan replied.
Lunch had stretched past two o'clock. With the cooperation contract finalized, Chen Yaochuan needed to follow up on the details, while Zhou Xun and Old Qi had to handle the post-production of the single. Gao Yuanyuan accompanied Shen Lang back to Chang'an Street to retrieve his 28-inch rod brake bicycle.
Shen Lang readily agreed. Since they had nothing better to do, a leisurely bike ride through the city seemed like a perfect way to unwind. Besides, he had the company of the young, beautiful, and cheerful Gao Yuanyuan, whose lively chatter never ceased.
Shen Lang removed his jacket and placed it on the rear rack as a cushion. Gao Yuanyuan's heart warmed at the gesture. With a sweet "Thank you," she hopped on.
"Let's go!" Shen Lang gripped the handlebars, pushed off a few times, and swung onto the bike using the momentum.
Just as they started, a car suddenly turned onto the street from the corner ahead. Shen Lang quickly braked to slow down. Gao Yuanyuan, caught off guard by the inertia, lurched forward and bumped into Shen Lang's back.
"Hold on tight," Shen Lang warned. She was sitting sideways on the rack, making her vulnerable to falling.
Gao Yuanyuan hummed in acknowledgment and reached around to hold onto his waist.
Under the vast sky of the Capital City, with a gentle breeze accompanying them, they cycled toward the Financial District, chatting idly along the way.
At Wanping City, Gao Yuanyuan transformed into a tour guide, sharing historical tales related to the area.
They continued cycling along the riverbank to Yuyuantan Park, where they strolled and chatted.
They covered nearly ten kilometers and spent two or three hours there.
When they reached Gao Yuanyuan's apartment building, they lingered for another conversation.
By the end of the day, their bond had deepened considerably.
Gao Yuanyuan smiled brightly and said, "Thank you, Shen Lang. I had a wonderful time today."
Shen Lang joked, "You're happy, but my legs are about to fall off from all that pedaling."
"Oh no!" Gao Yuanyuan exclaimed, glancing at his legs with concern. "What can we do?"
She had been sitting on the back of the bike, feeling only a slight soreness in her rear from the bumps, but otherwise perfectly comfortable.
Seeing Shen Lang's pained expression, Gao Yuanyuan bit her lip and offered, "Would you like me to massage them for you?"
Shen Lang chuckled. "I'm just teasing. My legs are fine."
Gao Yuanyuan looked skeptical. "Really? They don't hurt?"
Shen Lang shook his legs. "Does this look like they hurt? You're so light, it's practically like riding alone."
In truth, if he hadn't been keeping up with his workouts, he never would have been able to carry her that far.
Gao Yuanyuan finally relaxed, patting her chest in relief. "That's good to hear."
Shen Lang waved goodbye. "Alright, it's getting late. I should head back. You go upstairs too. See you next time."
Gao Yuanyuan's lips curled into a sweet smile. "See you next time."