Infinity Records

Arell mentally reviewed the details of the deal alongside Geoffrey as they strolled through the local government office. Besides the core terms, Geoffrey had skillfully negotiated several key variables to ensure Arell's interests were protected.

One crucial aspect was the retention of 100% of his image rights. Atlantic's team would likely utilize his likeness in various promotional materials, which was standard practice in such deals. However, Arell needed to strike a balance between authenticity and market appeal, ensuring his personal brand and values remained intact while appealing to a broader audience.

The retention of publication rights and master recordings was also pivotal. Maintaining control over his master recordings allowed him to license his music as he saw fit, thereby protecting his financial interests in the long run. This was crucial for his future independence and long-term revenue streams.

Additionally, there were clauses in place to ensure transparency and accountability from Atlantic. Regular financial reports, clear timelines for marketing campaigns, and the involvement of Arell in key decisions were all part of the agreement. Geoffrey had made sure that Arell would have a say in the direction of his career, avoiding the pitfalls many artists faced when signing with major labels.

After signing the contract, they headed to the venue where his show was scheduled for the next day. The place buzzed with activity as the team set up the stage, sound systems, and lighting. Arell took in the sight, feeling a mixture of excitement and nerves.

Geoffrey approached him with a grin. "Guess what? Bacardi flew in today. She also brought some friends along. I've taken care of their tickets and hotel rooms already."

Arell grew a smile. "Good, make sure we've got a contract ready for her, I want to get her signed as soon as possible."

After ensuring everything was set for the show, Arell and Geoffrey made their way to the government office, which they were currently walking through the halls of, to complete the official registration of Infinity as a business entity. This step was crucial, marking the formal beginning of their record label. They submitted the necessary documents and waited for confirmation.

As they left the office, Geoffrey couldn't hide his satisfaction. "Congratulations, Arell. Infinity is officially registered. This is a big day for us."

Arell smiled, feeling a sense of accomplishment. "Thanks, Geoffrey. None of this would have been possible without you."

Geoffrey placed a reassuring hand on his shoulder. "We've come a long way, but this is just the beginning. With the Atlantic deal, the Puma partnership, and Infinity now a legal entity, we're positioned to make a significant impact. Let's keep pushing forward."

Arell nodded, his mind racing with possibilities. "Geoffrey, go ahead to the car. I'll be there in a minute, I got another reward from the system."

"Alright. Don't take too long, we've got a lot to prepare for tomorrow." As Geoffrey walked ahead, Arell turned to an open space in the air, making sure no one was around. He took a deep breath and spoke quietly, "I got another reward from the system."

Instantly, a familiar, holographic interface appeared before him, shimmering softly.

'Actually, I should check my progress before checking the reward.' Arell said mentally, as he willed his current stats forward.

Stats

Strength: 58 ----> 68

Agility: 64 ----> 68

Stamina: 51 ----> 60

Durability: 61 ----> 67

Intelligence: 82

Charisma: 75 (+15 Boost due to handsomeness)

Rapper Stats

Flow: 65 -----> 69

Voice: 74

Lyrics: 56 -----> 64

Production: 77 ------> 79

Performance: 62 -----> 66

Freestyle: 46 ------> 58

Songwriting: 59 -----> 67

Seeing the improvements in his stats, Arell felt a sense of pride. He had been exercising almost every day, which explained the boost in his physical stats. His stamina, strength, agility, and durability had all seen significant gains. He recalled the intense workout sessions and how they had contributed to his overall fitness.

In the realm of rap, his consistent writing had paid off. The improvement in his lyrics, freestyle, and songwriting stats was evident. He smiled, remembering the number of hours spent scribbling down lyrics and practicing his freestyling skills.

His production stat was now close to 80, but the progress seemed slower. He recalled the tips he had received from industry Mike and Metro. "If my production stat was lower, there would definitely have been a larger improvement." He mused.

"This is all looking good," Arell muttered to himself. He then shifted his focus to his hidden stats.

His business acumen had improved to 72, and his marketability and networking stats had also risen, thanks to his increasing public presence and partnerships. Brand management and fan engagement had also greatly improved, there were also a host of other improvements that would take Arell far too long to read through.

[Host would you like to review your current active quest?] The system asked, breaking Arell's train of thought.

"Yes," he replied.

A new holographic screen popped up before him, detailing his active quests.

Active Quest

Mission: Capitalize on the Hype

Description: Leverage the positive buzz surrounding "Loyalty Ties" to expand your reach and solidify your presence in the local music scene.

Secure at least two interviews. Schedule a performance at a reputable venue. (Completed) Increase social media following by 30,000 (Completed)

Rewards:

+1 Creativity +10 Performance Improved Music Equipment

Mission: To be the Best

Description: Achieve the following goals before the end of the year:

Maximize Skills: Increase all rapper stats to at least 80. Complete the Album: Finish a full album. Billboard Success: Get a song in the top 50 on the Billboard Hot 100. Collaborate with Legends: Collaborate with at least three renowned artists in the industry. (Completed) Media Domination: Secure interviews and features in at least three major music publications or media outlets. Sell Out Shows: Perform at two major venues with sold-out audiences.

Rewards: [Hidden]

Punishment: If these objectives are not met by the end of the year, all stats will be reduced by 40 points and the system will shut down permanently.

Arell reviewed the details of his quests, he felt a sense of pride as he recalled the studio session with Swae, Travis Scott, Mike Dean, Leland and Jeff. With this collaboration, what should have been one of the more challenging objectives in the quest, 'Collaborate with Legends', was already accomplished.

Still, there was a lot more to do.

Arell pondered the "Capitalize on the Hype" quest. He had been sitting on it for a while. The +10 performance boost and the music equipment would serve him well, especially with the 'Maximize Skills' objective. Currently, his performance stat was at 66. If he could push it to 70 with his next two shows, the reward would take him to 80.

"Yeah, sounds like a plan," he muttered to himself.

Putting aside the quest, he then navigated to the rewards. "Well, let's see what you've given me." He said as he willed the rewards forward.

[Ding!]

[Congratulations! You've officially signed your first label deal and even managed to create your own!]

[You've unlocked the following rewards!]

[Star Power Improved ability to identify and recruit talented artists and Increased chance of attracting top-tier producers and engineers (Extremely Rare)]

[Pharrell Williams Influence: Innovative Production Techniques (Rare)]

[Artist Development Program: Unlock a series of structured challenges and tutorials designed to improve your songwriting, production, or performance skills.]

[Street Loyalty: You've unlocked a entourage, comprised of individuals created by the system who are dedicated to supporting and protecting you. 100% Loyalty: A handpicked crew of five highly loyal and trustworthy individuals with hoodlike backgrounds, each bringing unique skills]

[Ding! Unnatural Reward Unlocked: Final Curtain Call Experience]

["Elvis Presley's Last Performance: An Emotional Journey (Legendary X Unnatural)]

[You've unlocked a rare and profound experience, granting you access to the final moments of one of music's greatest icons. This reward package includes the following:]

[Last Performance: Witness an immersive, high-definition recreation of Elvis Presley's final concert. Feel the energy, hear the music, and experience the atmosphere as if you were there.]

[Backstage Access: Go behind the scenes to see Elvis preparing for his last show. Gain insight into his thoughts, emotions, and the weight of his legacy in his final moments.]

[Personal Reflections: Hear exclusive, post-performance reflections from Elvis, recorded in the moments after his last show. [Understand his feelings about his career, his fans, and his impact on the world of music.]

Arell absorbed the influx of notifications, his mind racing to process each reward.

[Star Power] caught his immediate attention. Being able to identify talented artists, coupled with an increased chance of attracting good producers and engineers, could be a game-changer for Infinity. "This is exactly what we need to build a strong roster," Arell thought, excitement bubbling up inside him.

[Pharrell Williams Influence: Innovative Production Techniques] was next. Pharrell's reputation as a producer was legendary. "Along with the other statuses, this will definitely help push my production stat over the edge." he mused, recalling the slower improvement in that area.

The [Artist Development Program] seemed equally valuable. "This is like having a personal coach 24/7, I guess I can tell Geoffrey to forget about hiring anything besides the vocal coach." Arell thought.

[Street Loyalty] intrigued him. He definitely could do with a larger entourage, and it would mean he wouldn't have to worry about getting security.

Finally, [Elvis Presley's Last Performance: An Emotional Journey]. Arell found it intriguing, but he also had mixed feelings about it. "It's pretty cool, but I would have preferred something more directly useful," he thought, acknowledging it as his first legendary reward and his second unnatural one.

As he considered these new advantages, another notification popped up.

[Ding! Due to your rapid success and achievement of multiple milestones, the system has decided that the host needs fewer rewards to remain motivated to improve. Please choose between continuing to receive milestone rewards or keeping the system roulette.]

Arell pondered the decision. The milestone rewards had been consistently beneficial, and while he hadn't gotten many rewards from the system roulette, they were still extremely useful. The luck factor, for one, was the reason he had even gotten to perform at the tabernacle, and who knew what else it had affected.

After a moment of thought, Arell made his choice. "I'll stick with the milestone rewards. They've been crucial in helping me reach this point, and I need that steady, reliable growth to keep pushing forward."

[Understood. Milestone rewards will continue to be provided as you achieve significant progress. Keep striving for excellence, Host.]

<> 

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As Arell took the stage, the lights dimmed, and the crowd erupted into cheers. The energy from the crowd as infectious, and Belcalis felt her excitement building.

She was surrounded by her sister Hennessy and friends Lisa, Mariah, and Tasha.

"This place is lit," Mariah said, a wide grin on her face as she clinked glasses with Hennessy.

"I know, right?" Belcalis replied, taking a sip from her drink.

"Bely, we gotta make sure he helps you with your music," Lisa said, nudging her playfully. "You're too talented not to blow up."

"Yeah, girl. We got your back," Tasha added, giving her a reassuring smile. "And tonight, we're gonna turn up!"

As Arell began to perform, Belcalis lost herself in the music. She watched, mesmerized, as he owned the stage, his voice booming through the speakers. The crowd was captivated, moving and singing along to the beat. Arell's confidence was undeniable, and Belcalis couldn't help but admire his skill.

Her thoughts drifted to her own situation. While she had been working hard, her path in music hadn't been smooth. She had been hitting the studio whenever she could, pouring her heart into her songs, but success had been elusive.

"I've been grinding so hard," she thought, recalling the countless nights spent writing and recording. "But it feels like I'm just spinning my wheels. I need someone to show me the ropes, to guide me."

She had dreams of making it big in music, of having the same kind of stage presence and command that Arell had. But the music industry was tough, and breaking through required not just talent but also the right connections and opportunities.

"If Arell could teach me, if he could spend time helping me out, I'd do anything," she thought, the word "anything" echoing in her mind.

As Arell moved across the stage, interacting with the crowd, Belcalis felt a spark of hope. Maybe this was her chance. If she could make him see her potential, it could change everything.

As Arell's show came to a close, the crowd roared with applause, and Arell took a bow before leaving the stage. Back in the VIP section, Belcalis and her friends were still taking shots, their spirits high from the performance they had just witnessed.

Geoffrey approached them, a friendly smile on his face. "Ladies, I hope you enjoyed the show."

"It was amazing!" Tasha said, raising her glass in a toast. "Arell killed it!"

Geoffrey nodded. "I'm glad to hear that."

Geoffrey then turned his attention to Becalis, extending his hand for a handshake. "It's nice to officially meet you, Belcalis." He then turned to her friends. "Ladies, if you don't mind, there's a private business matter I'd like to discuss with your friend here. You're all welcome to head backstage and wait for her there."

Confused, Belcalis shook Geoffrey's hand. "Business? I thought Arell flew me out here for... other reasons," she said, her voice trailing off.

Geoffrey chuckled softly. "I assure you, it's all about business. I believe you'll be very interested in hearing what we have to offer."

Belcalis nodded, though she was still a bit unsure. "Okay, let's talk."

As her friends began to leave for the backstage area, Hennessy leaned in and whispered in her ear, "I got you, sis. Don't worry."

Belcalis gave her a grateful smile and watched as they walked away. She then turned back to Geoffrey, her curiosity piqued. "So, what's this proposal about?"

Geoffrey led her to a quieter area of the venue, away from the noise and crowds. "Arell and I have been following your work, specifically your videos of your studio sessions, and he sees a lot of potential in you. We'd like to discuss the possibility of signing you to Arell's label."

Belcalis' eyes widened in surprise. "Signing me? For real?"

Geoffrey nodded. "Yes, for real. Arell believes you have the talent and drive to make it big, and we want to help you achieve that. With the resources and support of his label, we believe you can reach your full potential."

Belcalis felt a rush of emotions—excitement, disbelief, and hope. This was the opportunity she had been dreaming of. "I'd love to hear more about it."

Geoffrey smiled. "Great. Let's sit down and go over the details."