Chapter 19: Daniel's Reminder

[Chapter 19: Daniel's Reminder, Life Mentor]

"Additionally, regarding the album's producer, the previous three tracks were produced by Lisa, but now the competition is heating up. The other two top producers at the company, Frank and Jack, are interested in producing your album. You should consider who to choose, as the company needs to finalize it soon."

Frank and Jack were Universal Music's top music producers. They only worked with A-list stars or superstars. As a newcomer, Linton was never on their radar, and they certainly wouldn't have been interested in producing his singles.

However, with the three songs becoming hits and Linton skyrocketing to fame, the potential for his album had already been internally rated by Universal as an A+, the highest tier, suggesting it would start selling at over ten million copies.

According to Universal's internal revenue-sharing rules, a song's producer could receive 3% of the song's sales (the industry standard). With twelve songs on an album, priced starting at $15, if the album sold ten million copies, a single song's production profit share could reach over $100,000; with ten songs, it could total $3.46 million. Such significant profits were undoubtedly attracting many capable producers to compete for the project, which was good for Linton. Yet, choosing wisely was critical.

"Daniel, regarding the music videos (MVs) we'll be shooting, I have an idea. You know I graduated from USC's School of Cinematic Arts with a focus on directing, and my graduation short film got an A+. I want to direct two of the music videos myself. What do you think?"

Daniel's heart skipped a beat. He thought to himself, "Oh no, you can't just dive right in."

"I don't oppose you directing the MV yourself, but given the tight schedule, can you handle it? I'd suggest you avoid directing the MVs this time. If you don't want to abandon your craft, you could co-direct a few songs. When we release singles next year, we should have more time, and then you can direct if you'd like."

Linton contemplated the requirement to complete ten songs and their MVs within three months, which was indeed a tight timeline. Moreover, simply directing an MV wouldn't really elevate his skills.

After observing Zack's method of shooting MVs, he realized it was quite similar to his former approach as a director. In fact, due to the simplicity of stories and setups, directing an MV was even easier than directing films or television shows. It wouldn't necessarily enhance his popularity. So, he decided to leave it to Zack after all.

"Also, you're my top talent, and I hope your stardom lasts. If you do well, it will solidify my position and even allow me to advance further.

Linton, you're still young and your rise has been rapid. There are things I feel I must remind you about. When we settle with the company at the end of July, it will be a substantial amount. You don't have a lawyer or accountant yet, do you? My advice is to find a reliable lawyer and accountant.

You need to understand that being a hot celebrity often comes with inevitable legal issues. Even if you try not to invite trouble, you will encounter people trying to exploit you for money, setting up various legal disputes.

Having a lawyer is crucial. Although Universal and WMA's lawyers can serve you, bear in mind that their interests don't always align with yours.

An accountant is even more important; they can verify your business partners' income and ensure transparent financial dealings. They'll help you plan your spending wisely and make informed investments, especially in terms of legal tax compliance.

You may look like you're living the high life, earning more in a few months than some earn in a lifetime. However, let me share a harsh truth: amongst the stars in culture and sports, few manage to keep their wealth after they fade away or retire. Some even end up broke or homeless; others succumb to addictions and leave this world too soon.

For example, at a party, after having too much to drink, you might sign off on documents handed to you by someone close, which could lead to losing substantial assets or even accumulating debt.

An ordinary night out could be a trap, resulting in a lawsuit that could cost you dearly, facing severe compensations or even criminal charges.

If you find yourself at chaotic parties without proper precautions, you could easily contract STDs, or worse, HIV, spending your life in medical facilities and ultimately losing your life.

Greedy relatives and childhood friends, scammers, Wall Street con artists, managers, agents, lawyers, and accountants might collude against you to deplete your wealth.

Your significant wealth could attract even more dangerous thieves, and these are risks you'll need to manage moving forward. So, it's crucial to maintain extraordinary energy, self-control, judgement, and vigilance. Continue to strengthen yourself.

Remember, this is fundamentally a survival of the fittest society; however, it often operates under a veil of law. The examples I've shared are common scenarios and my understanding from experience. I hope this helps you because I truly believe in your future."

Hearing Daniel's candid words, Linton felt both startled and immensely grateful for the reminder. Daniel was truly a mentor in his life; he had never considered the extent of malice and pitfalls the celebrity lifestyle could harbor. No one had ever brought this up to him before. Although he was a talented musician, he still needed to operate within the legal system and do his best to avoid pitfalls.

"Thank you for your guidance; I will definitely remember what you said today."

"But don't be too anxious, really. As long as we remain vigilant and take precautions, the chances of falling into those traps are minimal, especially since you are white, making the likelihood even smaller.

Of course, if you can gain a deep understanding of American politics and interpersonal relations, coupled with the necessary social skills and initiative -- along with the ability to leverage your resources -- you'll discover that this is truly a land of opportunity; the wealthy can wield powers beyond imagination and enjoy privileges unthinkable to most."

"Please elaborate."

"Aside from money, people crave two things: power and fame. Power can be a complex and challenging thing to attain; however, the most straightforward approach is to actively engage in politics, contribute to campaigns, or even run for office yourself. That is the simplest way to obtain power.

Aside from politics, media holds enormous hidden power; owning a media company allows your influence to permeate society in ways that can rival or surpass that of political figures.

Acquiring fame is easier; for instance, having significant influence in a particular field or being a star certainly contributes to that. However, it's important that this translates into societal influence, which is often based on one's 'points.'"

"What are points?"

"Points are a social concept that everyone appreciate widely. If you have enough points, you can easily exchange them for power, friendships, and connections.

How do you accumulate points?

There are many ways, for example, helping the government tackle tough challenges, supporting politicians in elections, assisting the less fortunate, aiding businesses in achieving success, or even helping the country gain international recognition. However, the simplest and quickest way is through charity work, which can quickly earn you points.

To illustrate, some wealthy individuals are willing to spend a fortune hosting charity galas, then spend a hefty amount flying to Asia or Africa just to deliver basic supplies worth thousands of dollars, getting extensive media coverage for their generosity. They could simply buy and send more supplies, but that wouldn't earn them points.

The more points you have, the greater your corresponding influence and societal reputation. With great wealth and sufficient points, you'll find that you can navigate effortlessly, becoming a true winner."

Linton was enlightened. Yes, this is a society where governmental and legal frameworks serve capital the rich. As long as one has money and the right approach, it can indeed be a paradise for the wealthy.

*****

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