Chapter 32: We're a Rock band

"This is just a temporary contract for newcomers. If you want 10%, you can discuss it when signing the formal contract." Craig Cook maintained a businesslike demeanor, and his expression was flawless.

His narrow eyes crinkled slightly as a smile played on his lips. "Universal Music isn't going to be overly strict with you on such details. We are, after all, one of the top five record companies in the world."

The condescending tone in Craig's voice was hard to miss as if he were looking down on Evan Bell's supposed inexperience.

However, Evan wasn't as naive as Craig assumed. "I think you've got it backward. The bigger the company, the more demanding they are with terms, and they're not easily swayed. Smaller companies are where there's room for negotiation. Big companies have a plethora of talent and won't adjust their system for just anyone. Fast-tracking someone's career is rare in a large company. Besides, the difference of 2% may not seem like much, but for a company like Universal Music, where successful artists bring in tens of millions, that 2% adds up significantly. After all, large companies tend to be more frugal than they appear."

Evan's exchange with Craig was swift and pointed. Before Gillen Haas and the others could fully process what was happening, the two were already locked in a verbal duel.

Craig's eyes, already narrowed, almost disappeared entirely, dark circles giving him a fatigued appearance.

"So, do you have any other questions about the contract?" Craig shifted his gaze from Evan, his smile broadening.

"Actually, I do." Evan's voice cut through the brief pause. Craig couldn't help but acknowledge that Evan Bell was indeed a tough negotiator, far more so than other newcomers who usually approached their first contract with excitement and naivety, often leading them to accept less favorable terms.

Under different circumstances, Craig might have admired Evan's tenacity, but today, as a representative of Universal Music, Evan's persistence was becoming a nuisance, nibbling away at Craig's leverage.

Craig was no novice, though. In his thirties, he wasn't intimidated by the challenge of an eighteen-year-old college student. He narrowed his eyes again, ready to counter whatever Evan threw at him.

"I'd like to ask, what is Universal Music's positioning for Melancholy Mood? After we sign, does the company have any plans for us?" Evan's question stemmed from a conversation he'd had with members of Linkin Park.

He realized that while an artist's talent is crucial, the company's vision for them is often the determining factor in their success. Proper positioning could elevate even the most niche artist into the mainstream, making the development plan a critical component.

Initially, Gillen Haas and the others were anxious about Evan's barrage of questions, worried they might irritate Universal Music. But as they realized that Evan's inquiries were for the band's benefit, they relaxed and focused on Craig's response.

Craig's eyes flickered momentarily, though it went unnoticed due to his perpetual squint. He hadn't expected Evan to hone in on such a crucial issue. Most bands, when signing their first contract, focus on their immediate gains rather than the long-term vision.

"The development plan will only be discussed after we sign the formal contract, so there's no need to rush right now," Craig deflected smoothly.

"Any plan for a new band involves a lot of professional input. I'm just an agent and don't have the decision-making power over that. However, as the one who discovered Melancholy Mood, I do have some say in the positioning. I've already mentioned it in my report to the company, so I can share a bit to ease your concerns." Unintentionally, Evan had secured a position where he could negotiate on equal terms with Craig.

"I think you guys have the potential to become an idol band. If necessary, you could add a guitarist or bassist to complete the lineup." Craig's tone shifted, becoming more animated as he shared his vision. "You know, in this era of music, there hasn't been an idol band that's really taken off. I think you could be the ones to start a band revolution."

Craig glanced at Evan. Though this kid was a handful, it was undeniable that he had a natural gift. His maturity and composure, well beyond his years, hinted at a promising future.

It was now late 2000. Male idol groups like Backstreet Boys, Westlife, and NSYNC were dominating the global music scene. Female groups like Destiny's Child and TLC were also holding their own, with album sales in the tens of millions.

Idol groups had an unshakeable grip on the market, driven by an army of dedicated fans whose loyalty often propelled these groups to incredible heights.

Given the circumstances, Craig's idea wasn't far-fetched. However, there was a significant problem: Melancholy Mood had always been a rock band. Asking them to pivot to an idol band was a jarring proposition. Gillen Haas and the others were stunned.

Evan frowned even more deeply. This was exactly what he disliked about big companies—under the pressure of commercial interests, artists often had to compromise their ideals.

"We're a rock band," Evan said firmly, his voice leaving no room for doubt. Gillen Haas and the others immediately voiced their agreement.

Craig had anticipated this reaction, and a knowing smile crept onto his face. Young people and their idealism—he'd seen it countless times before. The golden age of The Beatles and Elvis was long gone.

While rock music still held a significant place in American culture, it was no longer the first choice for record companies looking to make a profit. "Your talent is good, but breaking into the current market as a rock band is nearly impossible."

Craig's words hung in the air, silencing the four young men. Evan knew he wasn't wrong.

"You could take the idol band route, gain popularity, and then pursue your rock dreams later. With fan support, you'd have the leverage to negotiate with the company." Craig's words were a tempting offer, designed to appeal to their ambition.

He studied the faces of the band members, noting with satisfaction the internal struggle playing out in their eyes. Jacob Tibo, in particular, seemed to be wavering. But when Craig's gaze returned to Evan, he saw no hesitation—only a thoughtful determination.

"Right now, though, to be honest, you're not in a position to negotiate with Universal Music." The bluntness of his words stung, but they were undeniably true.

For a moment, the coffee shop was quiet, the soft strains of jazz music filling the space. The late afternoon sun cast long shadows, and each member of Melancholy Mood was lost in thought, unsure of what the others were thinking.

"You have three days to decide. Universal Music is willing to wait for your answer, but I hope it's the one we're looking for." Craig knew they needed time to discuss and reflect.

He studied their faces one by one. Unfortunately, except for the indecision in Jacob's eyes, the others revealed nothing. They were clearly wrestling with the decision.

Only Evan noticed when Craig left the café. Evan had already made up his mind but was curious to know where his bandmates stood.

"What do you think?" Evan asked, turning to face his three bandmates. The reality was sinking in—this was their first real chance to sign with a major label, and it was with Universal Music, one of the industry's giants.

It felt like a dream come true, except for the part where they'd have to abandon their original vision and become an idol band.

Life often presents impossible choices. Do they sign with Universal and change their identity, or do they keep searching for an opportunity that aligns with their dreams? Even older, more experienced people would struggle with such a decision, let alone three young men in their early twenties.

Evan, however, wasn't confused—he'd already faced death once and had long since come to terms with what truly mattered to him.

"Evan, what do you think?" Gillen Haas broke the silence, turning the question back on Evan.

"You already know how I feel," Evan replied, a faint smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. He had made his decision, and the certainty in his voice was reassuring.

"When I joined the band, I said I just wanted to enjoy making the music I love, whether it's rock, pop, or blues. The point is, it has to be something I believe in."

Gillen and the others nodded in agreement. This was, after all, the reason they had formed Melancholy Mood in the first place.

"Today, it's clear that Universal Music is more focused on commercial interests. They want us to be an idol band because it's profitable. But what if we don't make them money?"

Evan paused, seeing the others deep in thought, and continued, "Best case, they might try to reinvent us. Worst case, the band could be shelved or even disbanded. That's how it works at big companies—business comes first."

"If it were up to me," Evan's smile grew, exuding confidence and a fierce commitment to his ideals, "I'd choose freedom."