Chapter 226: Chapter 226: Take it Out
But the artist next door is so arrogant. James Landon hasn’t even agreed to anything yet, and they’re already spinning their own news.
Things like "James Landon passionately producing", "James Landon praises this as the best artist friend he has ever collaborated with", "James Landon producing for free just for the chance of collaborating" – in short, they’re embellishing every detail.
Though it’s straightforward to address this – all it takes is a simple post debunking the rumors. Once that’s out, the neighbors will certainly be mocked. Before he knew it, James Landon caused trouble for him.
"The songs I write are not for just anyone to sing" – this statement quickly became a hot topic.
Originally, it was just to debunk the rumors about him, but in the end, everyone chastised him for being aloof, for lacking empathy, for being too arrogant.
As seasoned as he is, he knew right away that the artist next door had paid for the publicity. His fans, however, are fiercely loyal and quickly turned the tables.
Only now has the matter finally quieted down a bit.
James Landon feels a bit sullen and shows no expression. "Wasn’t it you who always wanted me to hit the headlines?"
His manager was speechless.
James Landon has always liked to write songs in peace, but his manager is more practical.
He understands that in such an environment, no matter how good your song is, if there’s no hype, who would pay attention to you?
As long as you have some popularity, you’ll be praised through the roof for anything you do, even if it’s just plucking cotton.
So, what’s most important?
Popularity, right?
If you have abilities but no popularity, do you still want to live?
Hearing his own artist say such things, the manager almost spit out his coffee. "When I wanted you to top the trending list, it was to boost your popularity, but you need to know your limits! If this incident is caught by paparazzi, do you still want to have a career?"
The manager finished all at once, but James Landon showed no reaction.
He didn’t feel he did anything wrong.
The manager clutched his chest, speechless, pointing at him.
After a while, James Landon finally drawled, "Not many people know that I brought Hannah into the business. If you keep shouting like this, the paparazzi will come."
Upon hearing this, his manager paused, realizing what he was doing outside the restaurant since many passersby were staring curiously.
He quickly ushered James Landon inside, "Fine, this time I’ll let it go, and I’ll have a meal with you."
James Landon spoke, "But I just told Hannah that only two of us would be dining today."
Manager: "...So you still want a career?"
Helplessly, James Landon compromises and walks towards the private room with his manager.
As they headed there, the manager remembered something, "Oh right, do you remember that female artist, Hilary Quin, who bought that defaming news last time?"
James Landon replied in cold tone, "Don’t remember."
The manager sighed, "’Shining Star Journey 2’ invited her as the special guest mentor for the next episode. You two will inevitably clash and create a hot topic. Though I’ve already discussed with the show team, do watch out, keep your distance from that Hilary or so. Even though I too am annoyed by her, her ignorant fanbase is quite large. Be polite when you speak. Got it?"
James Landon: "Understood."
*
Three days ago, ever since ’Falling Spring’ wrapped production, Louis Snyder’s opportunities considerably increased.
Several projects started to approach him. Even though they were only side roles, it was already better than what he had before.
