Chapter 179 Youwei's Do-or-die approach

Yuwei was very popular abroad, but she had some trouble adjusting after returning to China. First of all, she found that the competition in the domestic entertainment industry was extremely fierce, with artists of all styles emerging one after another.

Secondly, her style of work doesn't seem to be very popular in the domestic market. The avant-garde art style that was originally very popular abroad is considered too niche in China.

Furthermore, she is not suited to the complex interpersonal relationships and social rules in China. At a previous important event, she was criticized behind her back for being arrogant because she did not take the initiative to greet and communicate with some industry leaders.

Youwei felt extremely wronged. She was simply used to the more direct social interactions abroad. Besides, she had previously been in a girl group and was used to following the group's arrangements. Suddenly going solo was quite difficult to adjust to.

Just when she felt lost and helpless, an artist who had also returned from overseas to pursue his career contacted her. The other person told her that he had encountered a similar situation when he first returned, and that to make a name for himself in the Chinese entertainment industry, he either needed a powerful backer or convincing work.

If she had powerful connections, would she have ended up like this? That leaves only one other person!

work!

Her style abroad has always been Western, and the sexy wildcat look isn't popular in China. Furthermore, there are very few works that suit her voice.

Yuwei decided to change direction and began to study the styles of popular works in the domestic market. She tried listening to various types of songs and analyzing the singing characteristics of currently popular singers.

After some exploration, she discovered that traditional Chinese style songs have a large market in China, and that her unique voice might give these songs a special charm.

Recently, she has started practicing singing techniques for traditional Chinese songs day and night, learning the rhythm of poetry, appreciating the charm of traditional culture, and even paying out of her own pocket to hire a traditional opera teacher to learn singing techniques.

Shi Shi released the song "Red-Clad Ladies" because of Jiang Haichao's invitation.

She happened to meet Shi Shi, a talented songwriter. Once he was moved by her persistence and unique voice, he was willing to create a piece tailored for her.

Because she had no money. Terminating her contract and returning to her home country had already drained her entire fortune.

The company had already allocated funds to produce an album for her, but of course, it was a complete flop.

Given Shi Shi Studio's current pricing, and considering the recent failure of Youwei, it's impossible to get them to invest such a large sum of money again. Otherwise, what would their other artists think?

The initial buzz surrounding her return to China has gradually faded. She can't rest on her laurels!

She came to Jiang Haichao hoping he would plead for her, even if it meant signing a performance-based agreement. She also wanted Shi Shi to create a song for her, for which she was willing to take on debt.

Jiang Haichao disagreed, partly because Youwei was young. Although Shishi was known as a hit-making machine, minor fame relied on promotion, while major fame depended on fate. Who could guarantee that one song could truly bring Youwei back to her peak? However, the other party insisted, so he had no choice but to agree to act as a go-between.

Shi Shi was somewhat surprised to receive Jiang Haichao's call. She had been busy for the past six months. Song Ming had been keeping track of who was popular and who wasn't in the entertainment industry. She couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness; when she first transmigrated, Youwei had just returned to the country. At that time, Youwei was at the height of her fame, but unexpectedly, in just six months, she had faded into obscurity.

She has plenty of songs! But she runs a business, not a charity. Even if Youwei and she weren't close, it's a different story; she won't shortchange you a single penny. It's not that she's cold-blooded or inflexible towards true friends. She has her principles on this. She wouldn't hesitate to give away hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars worth of goods to friends privately. But giving away songs for free means "her work is worthless."

If Youwei wants to get something for nothing, she should show some sincerity.

...

Youwei was probably really anxious. Jiang Haichao contacted Shishi in the morning and got a reply, so she came over in the afternoon.

"President Shi, thank you for agreeing to see me." Since she was asking for a favor, Youwei kept a very low profile, showing no signs of having been a judge on Shi Shi's show.

"We've known each other for a long time, so don't be so polite."

Youwei knew Shi Shi somewhat, especially from Shi Shi's speech on the show. She still remembered it clearly: "Don't try to outsmart smart people."

“President Shi, the reason I’ve come here is to ask you to tailor-make a song for me. I know this isn’t a charity, and I’m not expecting you to help me for free. I’m willing to sign a performance-based agreement with you; if this song doesn’t bring me back to my peak, I will find a way to repay all the fees.” Youwei looked at Shi Shi sincerely, her eyes full of determination.

Shi Shi looked at her with interest. "You're quite sincere, but a performance-based agreement isn't so easy to sign. Aren't you signed with Hai Chao's company? As far as I know, you just signed. The shortest contract is for 5 years. Let's not even talk about how you'll pay it back. My songs don't have to worry about selling. How many professional and amateur singers want to make it big every year? Why would I give you my songs?"

Youwei wasn't surprised that Shishi would ask this question. After gathering her thoughts, she confidently told Shishi, "President Shi, I understand your concerns. But I have my advantages. I have a certain fan base overseas. Once this song is released, it will not only have an impact in the domestic market but also reach international audiences, opening up the international market for your work. I may not be famous yet, but I've been famous before. Rather than selling songs to newcomers, it's better to let me sing them. At least my influence is higher than theirs. Moreover, I've been working hard to study traditional Chinese style songs, learning the rhythm and rhyme of poetry and opera singing. I believe my voice and unique style can give your work a special charm. In addition, I'm willing to use all my resources to cooperate in promoting this song, including the connections I've built overseas. If this song is successful, it will be a huge benefit for both of us. I know your songs sell well, but I can bring you a different kind of return. Please give me a chance, and also give your work a chance to reach a wider stage." Youwei spoke earnestly, her eyes full of expectation, staring intently at Shishi, awaiting her reply.

Shi Shi listened, feeling a growing approval for her. "Alright, I can give you a chance. I can write a song according to your requirements. But..."

Youwei perked up, knowing that the main event was about to begin.

"You can't afford my price. So the copyright is out of the question, except for the exclusive performance rights for the first three years."

Youwei nodded; this was within her expectations.

"Since you claim to be so strong and capable, you'll have to pass my test to see if you're worthy of my song."