Lin Chen listened, feeling little joy, only a profound sense of absurdity. His persistence, his struggles, ultimately amounted to nothing more than a pawn on someone else's chessboard, its value lying in the amount of attention it could attract.
A more direct change came from external invitations. Those previously hesitant management companies, music labels, and even some small advertisers, like sharks smelling blood, swarmed in again. The conditions they offered seemed more "sincere," at least superficially willing to discuss creative autonomy and profit sharing.
Meanwhile, Mr. Wang from Xingyao Entertainment, after a few days of silence, changed tactics and contacted Lin Chen again. This time, he didn't mention a contract, but instead, with the tone of a senior concerned for a junior, invited him to "just chat and analyze the current situation for you."
Out of a desire to see through the other party's intentions, and also following Chen Kai's advice to "know yourself and know your enemy," Lin Chen agreed to the meeting. The location wasn't a coffee shop, but a more secluded tea room.
Mr. Wang, dressed casually, appeared less businesslike and more approachable than before. He personally brewed tea with practiced ease.
"Lin Chen, first of all, congratulations on advancing again." Mr. Wang pushed a cup of tea towards Lin Chen with a beaming smile. "Your performance in the third round was very impressive. Teacher Zhang Zhe greatly admires you, which shows you're on the right track; sticking to your path is worthwhile."
Lin Chen silently drank his tea, offering no reply.
"However," Mr. Wang's tone shifted, as precise as ever, "it's good for young people to have drive, but they also need to know how to assess the situation. You've generated some buzz now, but your foundation is unstable. The show's 'favor' is temporary, and audience preferences are fickle. Without a professional team to plan and maintain your momentum, this bit of buzz will quickly dissipate."
He observed Lin Chen's expression and continued, "I know you have concerns about your previous contract, worrying about losing your autonomy. I completely understand. Who doesn't want to control their own creative endeavors when they're young?" He sighed, as if sharing his experience, "So, I'm here not as a manager at Xingyao Entertainment, but as an industry senior who believes in you, to guide you on your path."
Lin Chen raised his eyes, waiting for him to continue.
"The company executives have seen your recent performance and noticed the public opinion. They believe that your 'wild,' unconventional qualities do have unique market value. Therefore, we can change our cooperation model." Mr. Wang leaned forward, lowering his voice, "A 'special contract.'"
"A special contract?"
"Yes. The term can be shortened to five years. The revenue sharing ratio can be negotiated at 40/60, you get 40%, the company 60%. Most importantly," he paused deliberately, emphasizing, "we can promise to guarantee you at least one EP each year, primarily based on your own creations. The company will provide production resources, but you can retain 30% of the creative direction and copyright. At the same time, all of the company's film, television, variety show, and commercial resources will be geared towards you. We will use the fastest speed to mold you into a true 'musical prodigy,' not just a talent show contestant."
The terms were astonishingly generous. They almost completely addressed all of Lin Chen's previous core demands—a shorter term, better revenue sharing, and most importantly, partial creative autonomy and copyright.