Chapter 134: Chapter 134: Signing the Singer
Scott looked at Ethan in shock. He was well aware of the significance of those two awards. They essentially proved that, in the field of music videos, Ethan was unrivaled last year.
Scott also knew about Chicago because he and his family had watched it. The film's dance scenes had left a lasting impression on him.
To think that such a masterpiece came from the hands of this young man before him!
It was truly unbelievable.
But the tangible proof was right there, leaving Scott no choice but to believe it. So, he immediately adjusted his attitude, no longer holding onto a skeptical mindset.
Still, he was curious. "So why do you think my daughter's song has potential?"
Taylor Swift had been writing poetry since she was a child and had even won awards in national poetry competitions. At just 11 years old, she performed the national anthem at a Philadelphia 76ers game.
Scott believed she had a natural gift. When Taylor expressed her desire to become a country singer, he immediately helped her record a demo of her first song.
However, he had faced numerous setbacks recently. Either there was no response after sending out the demo, or it was directly rejected.
This left Scott wondering what exactly about the song had caught Ethan's eye. It was a critical factor in the family's decision, as only someone who truly understood music could recognize Taylor's talent.
Ethan nodded, understanding Scott's concern. He explained, "Because I think country music is the future of America. To be honest, your daughter's singing skills, compared to others her age, are decent but not exceptional. However, I find her voice very distinctive, and it suits country music perfectly. It has a lively, sassy charm to it."
"But if she wants to release an album, she will need some time to train."
"How long do you think it would take to release an album?" Scott asked, following up on Ethan's point.
"How old is she now?"
"Fourteen."
"Then about a year. She'll need to systematically learn vocal techniques and singing skills, and with the help of a producer, polish her debut album. A year should be enough."
"I see. Do you have the right music producers for this?"
"Don't worry. Our industry connections are extensive. We're currently collaborating with Republic Records to train a new generation of girl groups. The teachers and producers involved are all top-tier in the industry."
Scott nodded. After discussing further details with Ethan, he drove back home to Nashville over the weekend.
"Dad!" Taylor Swift, who had been playing guitar in the living room, immediately ran up to him.
"Any news?" Although only 14, she already had the makings of a future star, with a sweet and appealing appearance.
"Yes." Scott took off his shoes, affectionately ruffled his daughter's hair, and, under his wife's watchful gaze, said, "Two companies have offered contracts."
"That's great!" Taylor Swift jumped up in excitement. She had grown quickly over the past two years and was almost as tall as her father now.
"Let's hear the details, Scott. Your daughter has barely been able to eat properly these past few days in anticipation," her mother Andrea said, placing a salad on the table before pulling her daughter onto the sofa to listen.
"Where's Austin?" Scott loosened his tie and hung it on the rack, asking about his eldest son.
"He's out shooting. You know how he is, always mumbling about his 'blues moments.' He's probably on his way home now," Andrea replied. Austin, the eldest son, was an aspiring photographer determined to major in photography in college and was working hard toward that goal.
"Alright." Scott initially wanted the entire family involved in such an important decision, but since Austin wasn't around, he let it slide. Sitting on the sofa, he recounted the day's events.
Besides visiting Angel's Declaration, he had also received a sudden call from American Broadcasting Records and rushed over to talk with their representatives.
However, the terms offered by American Broadcasting Records were far less favorable than those of Angel's Declaration. On the other hand, Angel's Declaration was a small company, and Scott worried that Taylor might not receive proper guidance there.
"So, we now have two options. One requires three years of training before officially releasing an album, but it's a big company that has cultivated many famous singers. The other only requires one year of training to release an album, but it's a smaller, newer company. Is that right?" Taylor summarized.
"Yeah... you're correct, Taylor. What do you think?" Scott asked for her opinion.
"Isn't it obvious? Angel's Declaration, of course!" Taylor Swift didn't hesitate for a second. "I can't stand being shelved for so long. I have songs, I have inspiration, and I can finish my first album quickly!"
"Hmm..." Scott fell into thought.
Andrea, however, expressed her doubts. "Are you sure this Ethan you mentioned is reliable?"
"We can easily verify that," Scott replied, then recounted the awards Ethan had received.
Unexpectedly, Taylor suddenly dashed upstairs. Her parents, confused, could only wait as she returned moments later with a stack of CDs in her hands.
"Look! Avril's Sk8er Boi! I love this music video! It was directed by Ethan, and I watched both the MTV Awards and the Grammys. He really did win those awards!"
Taylor exclaimed excitedly, "If we can convince him to direct the music videos for my debut album, my songs will definitely become hits! Dad, let's go with Angel's Declaration!"
This final argument sealed the deal. Although Angel's Declaration was a smaller company, it was sincere and could focus all its resources on Taylor.
If they chose American Broadcasting Records, she might not get any opportunities for a year or two.
"Then it's settled. Angel's Declaration it is." As Scott made the decision, footsteps echoed outside. It was Austin, returning home.
He looked at the excited family of three and shrugged in confusion. "What happened? Did we win the lottery?"
On Tuesday, at the Angel's Declaration office, Ethan met Taylor Swift for the first time.
Due to her age, she still retained a youthful innocence, with sun-kissed skin that showed she spent a lot of time outdoors. But in a few years, she would grow into the Taylor Swift the world knew.
"Hello." Taylor confidently stood before Ethan. After shaking hands, she fixed her gaze on him.
"Take a seat," Ethan said with a smile, motioning for the family to sit down.
The entire Swift family had come, clearly showing how seriously they took Taylor's contract.
"Ethan, we've decided to sign with your company, but we'd like to discuss your plans for Taylor's future."
"Of course." Ethan briefly outlined his vision. "I hope to develop Taylor into the new face of American country music."
However, Angel's Declaration currently lacked the resources to produce a music album for Taylor. Ethan planned to partner with a company in Nashville next year—the same one Taylor would encounter in her original timeline.
He couldn't recall the exact name of the company but knew it was based in Nashville, the birthplace of country music. The city was home to numerous country singers and producers, making it a better fit for young Taylor than New York.
For now, he intended to hire New York's best music teachers to train Taylor in various techniques and help her refine her image.
After finalizing these details, the Swift family was thrilled. Taylor's mother, Andrea, even decided to move to New York to take care of her, while her brother Austin could continue pursuing photography anywhere.
"Wow, who took these?" Austin asked, captivated by the photos on the wall.
"Ethan did," Jimmy replied, walking over to answer his question.
"He's a photographer too? These photos are incredible," Austin said, his eyes glued to the images, which included landscapes and portraits. The lighting and angles were far beyond his current abilities.
"Of course. Have you ever bought Angel's Declaration's photo books? They're hot sellers," Jimmy joked. "I've collected several myself."
"Never bought one, but I guess I'll have to check them out at the bookstore," Austin said before asking, "Do you guys hire interns?"
Jimmy raised an eyebrow, glanced at Ethan discussing business with Scott, then nodded. "Maybe we do need a photography assistant."
"Really?"
"Give me your phone number. I'll let you know in two days."
While Jimmy and Austin chatted, the Swift family officially signed the contract with Angel's Declaration, making Taylor Ethan's first signed artist.
After they left, Jimmy approached Ethan. "Ethan, Taylor's brother Austin wants to join as a photography assistant. What do you think?"
"Of course. That's great news." Ethan smiled. Tying the Swift family to the company at minimal cost was an excellent move.
"Alright, I'll notify him later. By the way, Ethan..." Jimmy rubbed his chin. "Do you really think she can make it big? There are so many beautiful and talented singers in New York."
"She's different, Jimmy," Ethan said, gazing down at the departing car from the balcony. "New York's girls are all chasing rock and following trends. Country music hasn't had fresh blood in ages. But Taylor is different—she's young, lively, and she'll bring a refreshing new vibe to country music."
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