For the next two hours, Chen Kai used his extensive experience and expertise to analyze for Lin Chen the potential pitfalls of a typical new artist agency contract.
"Look, the contract term can easily be eight to ten years, or even longer. This practically ties up an artist's prime creative period."
"On the surface, the income split appears to be 50-50 or 40-60, but if you look closely at the terms, the company's so-called 'training fees,' 'production costs,' 'promotional expenses,' and even team salaries may all be deducted from your total income. Ultimately, you might only get one-tenth of what you earn."
"And then there's copyright. Any work you create after signing the contract will likely belong not to you, but to the company. You'll simply become a 'performance tool.'"
"The most terrifying thing is the liquidated damages," Chen Kai's expression grew extremely serious. "They're usually astronomical. Once you sign, whether you're dissatisfied with the company's arrangements or want to terminate the contract, you could face a potential bankruptcy lawsuit. This contract, in a sense, isn't a cooperation agreement, but a contract of sale."
Lin Chen felt a chill run down his spine. He couldn't imagine that behind that glamorous contract lay such a terrifying shackle.
"But...if I don't sign, how can someone like me, with no background, even have a chance?" Lin Chen felt a wave of despair.
"Opportunity always comes with risk." Chen Kai looked at him with a blazing gaze. "But the important thing is, you can't give everything away completely ignorantly. Your talent, your uniqueness, is your most precious asset. It shouldn't be easily standardized, commercialized, or even alienated."
He picked up Lin Chen's guitar and gently plucked the strings, releasing a few clear notes. "I've heard all your work. Your songs embody life, earth, and genuine sorrow and joy. This is something that the industrialized star-making process at Xingyao can't replicate or truly understand. They're attracted to you because your 'wildness' brings a sense of freshness, but ultimately, they want to smooth out your edges and turn you into a commodity they need, a controllable commodity."
Chen Kai's words were like a key, unlocking the door of doubt in Lin Chen's heart. He understood the source of his vague unease. "So what should I do? Reject them?"
"You don't have to reject them outright," Chen Kai pondered, putting down his guitar. "You can use this opportunity to learn more. For example, ask for a formal, unedited contract and consult with a professional lawyer—I can introduce you to a trusted friend. For example, tentatively raise some basic demands for creative autonomy and see how they react. True collaboration should be based on mutual respect and mutual achievement, not one-sided control and exploitation."
He looked at Lin Chen's young, bewildered face, and his tone softened, a touch of elder concern in his voice. "Lin Chen, this world is complicated. Where there's light, there's shadow. There's nothing wrong with pursuing your dreams." But you must protect yourself. Stay clear-headed, stay vigilant, and never forget the original reason you sing.
"You mean... I still have a chance, but I have to proceed with caution?"
"That's right." Chen Kai nodded affirmatively. "Your path shouldn't be limited to Xingyao. Even if it seems like a shortcut now, shortcuts often lead to traps. Persevere, improve yourself, and through platforms like Echo, or by seeking partnerships with independent labels that truly respect music and artists, opportunities will always arise. Remember, a true mentor values your talent and future, not your long-term contract."
It was late at night when he left Chen Kai's studio. The city sky was dyed a dark red by neon lights, and no stars were visible. But Lin Chen's heart was much brighter than when he arrived. He touched the draft Xingyao contract in his pocket. It no longer felt hot, but instead, like a mirror, reflecting some of the true face of this industry.
He had a choice. Not to blindly embrace, nor to flee in fear. Instead, he would examine and judge with a clear mind, forging a path that was truly his own, one that might be more difficult, but more resilient to his original aspirations.
Chen Kai, the "music veteran" who appeared in his moment of confusion, was like a beacon in the fog. He made Lin Chen understand that in this complex world, he needed not only talent and courage, but also wisdom and guidance.
The road ahead remained long and full of unknowns. Xingyao Entertainment would not give up easily. The audition results would be announced soon, and more choices and tests awaited him.