Chapter Sixty-Eight: Setting the Tone

In stark contrast to the joy outside, the atmosphere inside the dedicated meeting room of Hunan Broadcasting’s “The Singers” program was far more somber. Today was the decisive meeting to finalize the list of contestants. Present were Wei Hongzhang, Ge Shengyang, Wei’s assistant, the show’s executive and on-site directors—both crucial deputies—as well as the core expert panel: the renowned producer Zeng Hao, acclaimed songwriter Zhong Zhiguo, and the orchestra’s chief conductor, Gao Rui. All had signed strict confidentiality agreements; every detail discussed today was to be kept absolutely secret to ensure maximum anticipation and ratings for the show. This was a matter of utmost importance for both the team and the station, which had issued an uncompromising directive: no mistakes would be tolerated.

As the meeting began, Wei Hongzhang opened, “Today, we must confirm the specific contestants: who will start, who will be alternates, and who will be challengers. After today, barring exceptional, unavoidable circumstances, there will be no more changes, so as not to affect the quality of the broadcast. I believe everyone here is well aware of the stakes, and there’s no need for me to reiterate the confidentiality requirements. Anyone who slips up during this period will be held responsible for jeopardizing the show. Now, let’s begin.”

Yu Hezhi stood up and tapped his smart device lightly. A virtual screen appeared in the center of the conference table, vivid and lifelike—a testament to the breakthroughs in holographic projection technology achieved in the latter half of the twenty-first century. This technology, integrated with smart devices, created immersive virtual displays for video calls, film viewing, and more, and was hailed as one of the century’s greatest innovations.

With a gentle swipe, Yu Hezhi brought up the first image: a full-body portrait accompanied by detailed information.

“The first singer is Lu Zhixuan,” Yu began confidently. “He advanced to A-list status in 2073, a veteran powerhouse renowned for his exquisite vocal technique and soaring high notes. He is also the oldest contestant this season—a classic example of perseverance finally rewarded. Outgoing and straightforward, he’s adept at managing backstage relations.”

“No question about this one. He’s a starter for sure,” said Deputy Director Guo Muzhe with a relaxed smile. “A-list, a powerhouse, years of accumulated fans and popularity—he’s a top contender for the championship and should make it to the end barring surprises.”

“Agreed.”

“Agreed,” others chimed in.

“Excellent. Approved as a starter,” Wei Hongzhang concluded.

“Second, Wang Yalin,” Yu Hezhi continued, switching to the next image. “Another powerhouse, dubbed a soul singer, known for her versatile style and high emotional intelligence. Nearly forty, she remains as beautiful as ever and is a highly popular A-lister.”

“No argument here,” said on-site Deputy Director Han Jialin. “She and Lu Zhixuan will make a strong pair, preventing any single contestant from dominating.”

“Agreed.”

“Agreed.”

Everyone nodded their approval, and Wei Hongzhang once again gave his assent.

“The third contestant is also an A-lister, Yuan Xiaolai,” Yu Hezhi went on. “Dubbed the Prince of Love Songs—a nostalgic figure who brings tears to many.”

“To have him join us—impressive,” Zeng Hao reminisced, shaking his head. “Director Wei, I’m impressed you managed to bring him on board. But I wonder—would he make a bigger splash as an alternate? With two A-listers as starters, that’s already strong. If we introduce a ‘super tearjerker’ as the first alternate, it could set off a media storm.”

“That makes sense. As a starter, he’s solid, but the surprise is less impactful. He’d be perfect as an alternate,” others concurred.

“All right. He’s always sung love songs, which might not seem the best fit for this stage. But I hope he’ll surprise us and show that heartfelt music belongs here, too,” Wei Hongzhang mused, ultimately agreeing with the group.

One by one, the contestants were decided—starters, alternates, challengers—some still pending until the final round of decisions.

“Next, Lin Qihua.” Yu Hezhi changed the image. Lin appeared, guitar in hand. “Currently a fifth-tier singer, debuted as a third-tier, experienced a year’s hiatus, and has recently returned to the scene. We’ve been watching him—his talent is top-notch and he’s certainly a talking point. Though not well-known now, he might deliver the season’s biggest surprise.”

“I’ve heard of him,” Zhong Zhiguo spoke first. “I can’t say for certain about his vocal prowess, but as a songwriter, he’s outstanding—rivaling the nation’s best, in my opinion. If he brings us new material on this stage, that alone could set him apart from the usual cover artists and offer something truly fresh for the audience.”

“His vocals are solid, too,” Gao Rui added. “I’ve heard a few of his songs; both emotionally and technically, he’s impressive—right around second-tier level. But I do have one concern: our show is never short of dark horses or unknowns, but his fame is almost nonexistent. Fifth-tier is a risk, isn’t it?”

“I agree,” Guo Muzhe nodded. “I hadn’t even heard of him. He’s probably hoping to use this show as his comeback, but maybe he’s aiming a bit too high—overestimating himself and treating our stage as a stepping stone. That mindset is problematic; it’s hard to believe he has what it takes to handle this stage. If he fails, it could bring down the show’s entire standard.”

“That’s a valid concern,” Deputy Director Han Jialin voiced her own worries. “I recognize his talent, and I’m sure he’ll make it here one day. But his experience on big stages is limited to his time in a group; after a year’s gap, his only experience has been singing in bars. Clearly, he lacks the experience. He may be underestimating just how tough this stage is. Without that experience, just the sheer pressure here could prevent him from performing at his best. From a safety standpoint, I think it’s debatable.”

“So everyone sees a risk,” Ge Shengyang, aware of his old partner’s intentions, realized he had to speak up. “But I think he’s perfect for this—he should go straight onto the starter list.”

“A starter? Are you mad? He’d be lucky to get a challenger spot,” Han Jialin and the others exclaimed, their faces full of disbelief.