Chapter Three: The Straight Singer
'You're a lucky guy, you know. Normally these labels own the artists. But the internet loves you and you're already famous. So you'll have a lot more freedom. We will be handling your endorsement deals, tours, and media appearances. And I'll make sure everything is how you want.'
Harry nods. We're sitting on the balcony of his room, drinking beer and just having a casual conversation. But I notice Harry doesn't look too thrilled. By this time in my meetings with the previous celebs, they used to bombard me with their visions of how they wanted their career to move forward, promotional strategies, demands, etc. but Harry seems disinterested in any of that. He almost looks sad.
'Are you okay, Harry? You seem so lost. You can tell me, you know.'
Harry says, 'You won't like what I'm gonna say.'
He is going to fire us. I just know it. Jessica would kill me. And as I start panicking, he says, 'I want to go back home. I hate it here. Living in this hotel room, all alone. Nobody to talk to. I don't have friends here. And I don't even like this city life. I prefer the quiet life of my village where I can grow plants and sing because I want to, not because I'm being paid to. Singing has always been my passion. But here, everything is about money. What about art?'
'I understand everything changing suddenly can be overwhelming. But you have a gift and if this gift makes you rich, why not? Work for a few years, earn money. And once you're a star, you can go back to the village life and make music from wherever you are. And as far as friends are concerned, you'll find your tribe. That's the thing about this city. No matter how you are, you always find people like you if you just try.'
Harry looks at me as if he's deciding whether I was trying to help him or just keep a client. 'Will you be my friend? I know I am your client and everything but I really need someone on my side. I'm just so scared and lonely here. And everything is different and I'm freaking out.'
His voice is getting more and more panicked and I come closer to him and pat him. 'Hey, don't worry. Of course, I'll be your friend.'