Huayu: Starting from the top talent show

Chapter 428 Who is greater, Alex or Jackie?

It was near noon on January 25th, US time.

After a long flight, Shen Juan and his group landed safely at Los Angeles International Airport on a private jet.

Because it was an unannounced trip by private jet, there weren't many fans and media waiting at the airport hoping to "bump into" their idols, so it didn't take too long. After having lunch, they went directly to the rehearsal venue for this year's Grammy stage to prepare for tomorrow night's live performance.

On the way, Shen Juan's assistant, who was keeping up with domestic news, suddenly nudged his arm and said excitedly, "Boss, boss! Right now, all the platforms on the internet, whether it's Weibo, Douban, Tieba, Douyin, Kuaishou, or Hupu, are discussing who has a higher historical status, you or Jackie Chan!"

"Why are we suddenly discussing this? Has some big news broken in China? What do Jackie and I have to discuss?" Shen Juan was a little puzzled. After all, as far as he knew, his PR team had no plans for him to confront the biggest boss in the history of the Asian entertainment industry.

Although this is highly likely to happen in the future.

Just like how the pug with the stomped head ousted him from the throne.

When someone goes up, someone else has to come down.

Those who want to climb the mountain and reach the summit must bring down those high-ranking predecessors from their pedestals.

But not now.

Because his current level of accolades is unlikely to surpass that of his senior, Cheng, who has been in the industry for sixty years and has made more than two hundred films.

His accumulated fame and influence are clearly incomparable to those of world-class superstars of this "grandfather generation".

Moreover, frankly speaking, this kind of thing has little to do with the artists themselves. It mainly relies on the efforts of the fans. It often takes a long time for the young fans to grow up and become the backbone of society and the group that holds the most power of discourse before their idols' historical status can be significantly improved.

For example, why is the eldest brother so powerful in Hollywood?

Besides changing the way Hollywood action movies are made, it's also because his group of "little fans" have all grown up.

With so many A-list celebrities praising Brother Cheng in public, it's hard not to think he's incredibly impressive.

Moreover, Shen Juan is not even 22 years old yet.

Anyone with eyes can see that Shen Juan has greater potential, and his peak achievements have already surpassed Cheng Long's peak.

Therefore, there is no need to rush into changing dynasties.

This matter requires further consideration.

Overtaking and suppressing the eldest brother is not as easy as dealing with the Pug, who can only dominate in the Chinese-speaking region.

"I don't know why, but they just started discussing it, and it even became a trending topic," the assistant said after a moment's thought. "Boss, do you think it's possible that someone is stirring things up behind the scenes?"

"This possibility cannot be ruled out."

"So who could it be?"

"It doesn't matter who it is, this question isn't important, there's no need to waste time on it." Shen Juan didn't care about the truth, anyway, it was a good thing for him, it was like someone was paying him to do some free marketing.

But this kind person wanted to hide their identity.

Then why would he need to drag them out?

"Oh." The assistant nodded thoughtfully.

"Show me their comments."

"Ok!"

Shen Juan took her phone from her assistant and glanced at it casually. Sure enough, everyone was having a lively discussion.

What does a billion-dollar tour box office mean? This is a divine realm that no one in the history of the music industry has ever set foot in! Shen Juan is the true global superstar! Although Jackie Chan is indeed awesome and powerful, can his peak achievements compare to Emperor Juan? My Juan is the number one male star in the world!!!

Shen Juan's business model has had an impact on the music industry in the streaming era that is no less significant than Jackie Chan's revolution in Hollywood action films! Shen Juan made music distribution in the streaming era fun, just as Jackie Chan made dull action movies entertaining. Both are kings in their respective fields!

Jackie Chan's Oscar Lifetime Achievement Award is indeed a source of pride for the Chinese people, but Shen Juan's tour box office exceeding one billion US dollars, and the upcoming Grammy Awards, signify that the voice of Chinese people in the global entertainment market has reached a new peak! Both are great! But Shen Juan is even more remarkable!

Jackie Chan has been a part of many people's lives. Shen Juan is currently very popular, but can he maintain that level of popularity for decades like Jackie Chan?

[The eldest brother's international influence is undeniable, but Shen Juan's fan culture has become a global phenomenon. Even the sales of concert merchandise can exceed 100 million yuan. This commercial value is outrageous! Forbes has directly commented that he has raised the ceiling for the commercial value of singers.]

Jackie Chan's films are true cultural export; just ask anyone on the streets of Paris and they'll know who Jackie Chan is.

[Then I'd say Shen Juan's tour box office could buy the rights to all of Jackie Chan's films! Just to put it another way, even if Jackie Chan had ten times the fame and influence among young people worldwide, he might not be able to surpass Shen Juan! The elderly will eventually pass away; only the young can represent the future of the world.]

Wait a minute, hasn't anyone mentioned Jay? He's a Time magazine-certified Asian pop king!

Hahahaha!

[Dude, are you serious? We were discussing the GOAT of the Chinese entertainment industry, and you suddenly bring up Jay?]

Who's stronger in a one-on-one fight, a lion or a tiger? I think it's the hyena. Corn always brings endless joy!

[Don't forget Jay! Hahahaha, he wasn't even the strongest in Asia during his era! Kwon Ji-yong, Utada Hikaru, Namie Amuro, Ayumi Hamasaki—what about Jay? Hahahaha! Why don't you drag Li Lianjie into this too, so he can be mocked along with Bago?]

[Low EQ: Stop arguing. High EQ: Where's Jay?]

[Stop joking about Bago. Can you honestly say you've never heard of Bago's songs? Anyway, in my opinion, Shen Juan and Jackie Chan are both prides of Chinese culture, legends in their respective fields. Whether in music or film, they are both using different methods to let the world know about China. Their achievements cannot be easily compared, but they are the best proof of China's soft power, and they are both writing their own stories of China.]

Overall, it seems like a draw.

In reality, Shen Juan was slightly outmatched.

Because Shen Juan's audience is mostly young people, the online world is his home turf compared to his offline presence which spans all age groups.

A large portion of the audience who support Brother Cheng also includes middle-aged and elderly people who do not frequently go online or have a habit of surfing the internet.

Therefore, Shen Juan is clearly still somewhat inferior to his elder brother Cheng, who inherited the "Will of the Dragon" from him.

Of course, this is a discussion on Chinese websites.

If we expand the scope to the global level, then with the support of Alovers worldwide, the outcome becomes uncertain.

After all, Shen Juan is even more popular overseas than in China.

His album, which has been jointly certified by multiple media outlets as "the first masterpiece of the streaming era," and the value of this historic world tour have exceeded many people's expectations.

The term "extraterrestrial demon" best describes his identity.

On the afternoon of January 26th, US time.

After completing all the preparations for walking the red carpet in an orderly manner, Shen Juan departed from the hotel and arrived at the venue for this year's Grammy Awards ceremony—the Staples Center, the home of the NBA's Los Angeles Lakers.

It's still the same familiar process.

As soon as he got off the bus, Shen Juan was surrounded by noise.

Countless fans were holding up support items with his name on them and screaming at the top of their lungs.

The security guards tried their best to maintain order, fearing that someone might climb over the fence, but they could hardly contain their ever-growing enthusiasm.

The flashbulbs were going off non-stop, and reporters were frantically pressing their camera shutters, eager to capture every moment of him.

Shen Juan smiled and waved to his fans as he steadily moved forward, escorted by a large number of security personnel.

The privilege of superstars is that wherever they go, they become the center of attention and people scream for them.

Shen Juan had long been used to this feeling.

With the security team leading the way, they smoothly stepped onto the red carpet.

To paraphrase Zhou Xun's famous quote from MetGala, this scene is probably best described as: So many people!
Everywhere you look, there are cameras, invited media wearing name tags, and busy staff.

That's just how award ceremonies are in the US.

In order to make as much money as possible and expand economic benefits, celebrities and internet celebrities from all over the world were given the right to walk the red carpet. For example, Shen Juan's compatriots Yi Yang Qianxi two years ago and Lay Master last year both used this crooked method to gain the prestige of the Grammys, so that they could show off and market themselves back in China.

It always results in a large group of people crowding together, which gives a very bad impression, much like a morning market.

After spending some time making his red carpet appearance in the media area and participating in the slow-motion red carpet shoot that only big names are entitled to, Shen Juan followed the staff member who was specifically responsible for taking care of him to the interview area at the end of the red carpet to begin being interviewed by the red carpet host.

"The moment you stepped onto the red carpet, I believe everyone watching the live stream was stunned! You were so handsome!"

"Thank you."

"It's no exaggeration to say that because I've watched many of your videos, whether it's from last year, the year before, or even when you first debuted in 2017, I can confidently tell you that you're becoming more and more charming! Alex, you absolutely reached a new level of handsomeness in your career tonight!"

"You're so good at complimenting people, thank you so much!" Shen Juan's smile was even harder to suppress than AK's. Although he knew it was just a polite compliment, he knew the Grammy red carpet was broadcast live worldwide! To run into such a supportive guy was definitely lucky!
The live stream chat was already buzzing with comments. Clearly, everyone found the scene hilarious.

"First of all, I must congratulate you! I have to say this is absolutely your year! From releasing a blockbuster album that sold over ten million copies to embarking on a phenomenal tour that is about to break a billion dollars at the box office, you have broken one seemingly impossible record after another and surpassed one great music legend after another! Including at the Grammy preview premiere earlier today, I heard you also won a few trophies, right?"

(Because the Grammys have so many awards that a two-hour ceremony cannot cover them all, only the major awards and a few highly anticipated awards are presented at the main ceremony. The rest of the awards are presented at the pre-show premieres, so fans can hardly see the live broadcast.)
“That’s right, I won Best Pop Album, Best Pop Duo/Group Performance (Shen Juan Li Na Cha), and Best Music Video (Old Town Road). I remember I was just a spectator in 18 and didn’t win anything in 19, so this is actually the first time I’ve truly won a Grammy trophy that belongs to me.”

"And if I remember correctly, you have four more nominations for the main awards ceremony. How are you feeling now?"

“I’m so incredibly excited! I mean, this is something I’ve always dreamed of. To receive nominations in three general categories this year, besides Newcomer of the Year, feels like a tremendous honor! And I love collecting these accolades! Because it makes me feel even more…”

Shen Juan smiled and shrugged, speaking eloquently to the camera. His outstanding looks and tall, upright figure exuded charm in every gesture. "You know, being different is what makes me feel special. Like the Tang suit I'm wearing today, it makes me feel special, and at the same time, it fills me with confidence and strength."

(The basic design is like this; we'll add more design details later. We're using a picture of basketball player Choi Young-hee.)
"Actually, I was just about to ask you this question. Let's talk about your outfit! It's really cool!" Perhaps because he was afraid of being cyberbullied by Alovers, or perhaps because he had been instructed by the Grammys, the host was extremely ingratiating towards Shen Juan, showering him with all sorts of flattery.

"This is a new Chinese-style Tang suit designed by Balabala. The embroidery pattern here is a dragon, a five-clawed dragon. In ancient China, only the emperor could use it, symbolizing the supreme and unique imperial power. But in 21st-century China, there are no emperors anymore, so I can use it as I please."

"So you're hoping this five-clawed dragon will bring you good luck in winning the prize?" the host asked with a smile.

Shen Juan smiled noncommittally, "Perhaps. Actually, there is another very important reason why I chose to wear a Tang suit to the Grammys this time. My two highly respected seniors, Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, both like to wear Tang suits to events. They are undisputed legends."

"But as you know, legends never die out. The films, life stories, and philosophical ideas they left behind will live on forever. But their era will eventually pass. So as a younger generation who witnessed their glory, I feel it is very necessary for me to take the torch from them."

“For me, this is more like a spiritual or symbolic inheritance, and I think I can do more.”

"Haha! To be honest, I also grew up watching Bruce and Jackie movies. I know how great they are, but I believe your talent and ability can definitely help you achieve your lofty ambitions!" The host extended his right hand. "It's a pleasure to interview you here."

Shen Juan reached out and shook hands with him, "I am also honored to be here to be interviewed by you. It was a pleasure to have a conversation with you."

Enjoy yourself tonight!

"I will. I hope this is my night."

Follow the staff into the Staples Center.

The inside of the awards ceremony was also in complete chaos.

Many people from all walks of life around the world who were invited to attend the "Oscars of the Music Industry" through various means were making the most of their time to have a final chat before the start of the event.

Or, like Jackson Yi and Lay Zhang, they could provide material for pretentious marketing and deceiving ordinary people after returning to China.

Or, like Song Zuer, you can build connections by adding several young women on WeChat whenever there's a large gala.

But compared to the noisy and chaotic red carpet that resembled a vegetable market just now, it was noticeably more orderly.

At least it's not as crowded or noisy.

Without a doubt, Shen Juan's seat today was arranged by the organizers in the most conspicuous position closest to the stage stairs.

The live stream camera could easily capture his handsome face with a casual sweep, eliciting passionate screams from fans all over the world.

The organizers aren't idiots; they naturally know who the biggest guarantee of viewership for this global music event is.

However, there are still about twenty minutes before the awards ceremony begins live, so some social interaction is inevitable.

For example, his longtime collaborator Ariana Grande approached him to discuss the previously mentioned collaboration on a new song.

Shen Juan planned to consider it again after some time.

After all, if the creation of romantic pairings is too frequent, it will not only deplete the audience's enthusiasm and make them feel tired of it, but it will also affect their artistic integrity.

This stuff is just like wheat bran.

It can only generate short-term popularity.

However, if they don't separate and remain affiliated, it's clearly not a good thing for the artists' long-term development.

in short.
The male lead might need the boost of CP (couple) popularity.

But contemporary idols definitely don't need that.

The personal icon of our time is the biggest brand!

For example, Shawn Mendes apologized to Shen Juan on behalf of his girlfriend Camilla, saying that Camilla had said those things because she was influenced by haters. After she calmed down, she realized her mistake and now she only has respect for Shen Juan and no disrespect whatsoever.

Shen Juan chuckled.

Dude, are you trying to fool me?

If apologies were effective, what would be the point of having police officers?

When faced with such an extreme and vile bitch, just send out your forces and that's it! I don't care what you do here or there!
For example, when the seven members of BTS met Shen Juan at the Grammys again, they bowed and greeted him respectfully.

On the one hand, it's because they were truly defeated and convinced of their superiority.

Alovers' fighting power is simply too strong!

Shen Juan's current business achievements are truly the best in the world. Even if they inflate their numbers to the sky, they still can't beat him!

Just focus on your own little corner of the world.

There is no need to launch a desperate, all-or-nothing attack against an invincible enemy.

After all, it's rare to witness the birth and rise of a phenomenal pop superstar. They should be thinking about how to learn from him and draw on his experience to benefit themselves, or how to become his friend, rather than his enemy.

On the other hand, the reason they were able to get the opportunity to perform on stage this year is because Shen Juan—Li Nacha's Old Town Road performance originally planned to invite Shen Juan, but Shen Juan needed to prepare his solo stage, so a lot of singer groups were temporarily added to fill the vacancy.

This includes BTS.

Therefore, when they face Shen Juan now, they feel only gratitude and appreciation, and no longer have any thoughts of competing with him.

If they previously defined Shen Juan as a Chinese singer, now they have changed his identity to an East Asian singer.

We're all family; there's no need to make a big fuss.
Then Billie Eilish and her brother, who helped her create the song, also came to the event today. Although Shen Juan has recently clashed with her in the online public opinion in order to promote her and win awards, and Alovers has also denigrated and attacked Billie Eilish in every aspect, there is no irreconcilable conflict between artists.

In addition, she had previously served as a guest performer on his tour.

The two have discussed music privately.

So the meeting at the Grammys was quite pleasant.

At least it wasn't as tense as the feud between Nicki Minaj and Cardi B, who seemed ready to fight the moment they met.

Finally, Li Nacha, known as Alex's go-to rapper, immediately jumped and ran over to Shen Juan upon seeing him, giving him a warm brotherly hug. "You look absolutely stunning today! Is that a new LV style? It looks amazing on you!"

He was probably the most relaxed of the nominees tonight, as the results for several of his major nominations were announced at the preview premiere this afternoon.

He even collected Shen Juan's three trophies on his behalf.

Since attendance isn't required, then I won't go.

Shen Juan's focus was entirely on the main ceremony tonight.

The Grammy awards in general categories are the most important!

"Thank you. You look very stylish and confident today. And this isn't LV, it's a traditional Chinese suit. Do you like it? Our sizes should be about the same, so I can send you two." Shen Juan thought that promoting Chinese culture in this way and deepening foreigners' impressions of Chinese culture wasn't a bad idea.

"I am extremely grateful! To praise your generosity, I have decided to pray to God that you will have a bountiful night!"

"But I have no faith, I don't believe in God."

"That's even better! Because it further proves that Alex's honor is entirely due to your own efforts, not from God's blessing, which is enough to prove the purity of your achievement!"

"You're always so good at praising others."

But you certainly deserve these compliments!

Shen Juan smiled, looking like he couldn't do anything about it.

Despite this guy only recently coming out as gay, some oddball netizens from abroad have even started shipping the two of them as a couple.

This includes, but is not limited to, analyzing their interactions in public frame by frame, saying that Li Na's gaze towards Shen Juan was not simple, that it was destined to be a one-sided love that would never be reciprocated, and then saying that it's no wonder Shen Juan was voted the most popular male star among gay men, that he was so charming it was terrifying!
But Shen Juan treated him with the same attitude as before, instead of avoiding him like a secret lover.

Shen Juan embraced an inclusive attitude and accepted the existence of all things.

Sexual orientation is a personal choice and has nothing to do with moral character.
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(End of this chapter)