Chapter Fifty-Six: Open Up! If You Dare to Record a New Song, Dare to Release It Online!

Of course, this so-called test was not truly what Wen Huaiyu intended. She believed in Bai Ling unconditionally. Her actions stemmed more from an affection for talent, a desire to experience it more deeply.

Bai Ling, for her part, did not question Wen Huaiyu’s motives; she agreed without hesitation, “No problem, Aunt Wen!” After a brief moment’s thought, she continued, “As it happens, I’m about to release a new song. Although I can’t perform it in full on the show—I want to keep a little suspense—I can certainly give a simple demonstration.”

Bai Ling hadn’t forgotten her real reason for appearing on the program: to promote her new song!

When it came to rushing between events, she was notoriously lazy, sometimes even wishing to slack off just to let Spring and Autumn Entertainment bear the loss. But when her own earnings were at stake, Bai Ling was proactive and enthusiastic. After all, she could pocket nearly half the revenue from a song’s release, with the promise of continued income. Goodness, this was a direct path toward becoming a little rich lady! How could she afford to be idle? Frankly, at her age, if she wasn’t amassing wealth, how could she sleep at night?

The mention of Bai Ling’s new song sparked excitement among those present. Leng Yan laughed, “I had planned to promote my new song on the show too. I didn’t expect you, young lady, to get there first.”

Wen Huaiyu chuckled and said to Leng Yan, “We must give newcomers a chance now and then. And a new song is a wonderful thing. I still remember ‘Under the Sea’ from last time—it left quite an impression. I’m sure Bai Ling’s new song won’t disappoint.”

Professors Wen Haiquan and Jin Chenglin shared the same supportive attitude, as did most of the others. Bai Ling was the center of attention these days; even anyone harboring resentment wouldn’t dare show it now.

That’s right—this was precisely the case with Wen Yan. With only teacups and a pair of chopsticks, Bai Ling had already captured everyone’s focus. How could Wen Yan possibly feel good about it? What was going on? In the past, she’d always enjoyed her share of the spotlight; now, paired with Bai Ling, she could only watch as Bai Ling continued to shine. This wasn’t right!

But there was no time for her to dwell on it. Bai Ling was already preparing for her final performance. Using the same technique, she tapped the teacups.

The melody began to emerge. Like her previous song, “Under the Sea,” it was gentle, but this time even more melodious and clear. The sound of the teacups harmonized perfectly with the accompaniment’s tune. Everyone closed their eyes, lost in the joy of the music.

It must be said—music truly possesses a magical power. When infused with one’s heart and soul, when emotion is poured into it, it easily evokes empathy and resonance. Bai Ling’s song was the best proof. Even without any vocals, she vividly conveyed the imagery and emotion she wished to express. Many listeners felt a warmth blossoming within.

“Oh, that was truly wonderful!” As soon as Bai Ling’s performance ended, Leng Yan was the first to speak. He rarely spoke much, even on variety shows, so this was a break from the norm.

The others also voiced their thoughts. “A very fine arrangement.” “I’m looking forward to it!” “Bai Ling, when will the song be released?” “I want to hear the full version!”

Their expectations for Bai Ling were high, and they all felt a bit regretful. But don’t misunderstand—the regret wasn’t over any flaw in Bai Ling’s performance. On the contrary, her perfect pitch and skill shone through, revealing her solid foundation. The regret was simply that this demonstration featured only the accompaniment and melody, not the complete work. Often, the arrangement and accompaniment are vital, but even more so are the lyrics. Only when both combine, complementing each other, can a song become a perfect whole.

Of course, this applies only to non-instrumental works. The group turned their eyes to Bai Ling, clearly hoping she might sing the song in full. The live-stream audience was thinking the same—a flood of comments demanding, “Sing it!”

The lively barrage of comments made Director Wang beam with delight. The more positive engagement, the better!

However, the audience would ultimately be disappointed. Bai Ling, after all, was an artist, and many decisions weren’t hers to make. With a soft laugh, she said, “As for when it will be released, I don’t actually know yet. The company hasn’t informed me.”

Upon hearing this, many of Bai Ling’s devoted fans, as well as curious onlookers, rushed to the official social media page of Spring and Autumn Entertainment:

“When is Bai Ling’s new song coming out? Give us a clear answer!”
“Release it quickly, we can’t wait any longer!”
“I’m already a member—when it’s out, I’ll make sure to get it in the highest quality!”
“I hope it won’t be like other singers, charging three yuan a song.”
“That’s unlikely; last time, ‘Under the Sea’ was just for members.”
“Three yuan a song is for a few of those older brothers and sisters—what’s that got to do with our Bai Ling?”
“Exactly, don’t talk nonsense.”
“Whatever the case, release it soon!”
“Where are the staff from Spring and Autumn? Why is there no response?”
“Are you all asleep? At your age, can you really sleep at night?”
“Hurry up and release Bai Ling’s new song!”
“Open the door! If you have the nerve to record a new song, you should have the nerve to release it. Don’t hide—I know you’re in the office!”

A tidal wave of messages and private inquiries bombarded Spring and Autumn Entertainment. But such a happy and enthusiastic bombardment—even if the servers crashed, the company’s executives would be grinning from ear to ear.

At that moment, all the company leaders were gathered around various screens, watching Bai Ling’s live broadcast. Even they were surprised and delighted by Bai Ling’s performance. They’d thought her recent popularity might have already peaked. Never did they imagine this young woman could bring them endless surprises.

This sudden burst of happiness was almost overwhelming for the company, which had long relied on its formerly-promoted artists to keep up appearances. The head of the Artists Department, in particular, immediately called Ge Fenfen, showering her with praise and excitement.

As for Ge Fenfen, there was little need to elaborate. She had watched Bai Ling’s performance closely. Though she’d noticed a few moments when Bai Ling seemed to relapse into her lazy habits, the final result was all she could have hoped for. It brought her true satisfaction.