Chapter 88

Details determine success or failure. The Lingxiao Hall, a top-notch recording studio, is indeed extraordinary, something not just anyone can establish.

Hans then led everyone on a tour, saying, "The external equipment racks behind the mixing console are not yet fully installed due to our renovations. Despite the large size of the rack, it still cannot accommodate all the various processing devices provided by the studio. Some equipment will be placed on mobile racks and brought in when needed;

the Lexicon 960L and TC Electronics System 6000 processors will be installed in the central room, with several remote controls in each control room to maximize their use. Special attention has been given to dynamic control.

This year's Spring Festival Gala will offer a visual feast like no other, one that will leave a lasting impression on the entire nation."

Hans introduced these devices with a familiarity that seemed like he was showing off his own children.

It was clear that he was a workaholic and audiophile, and once he entered his work mode, he was like a raging Spanish bull.

Hans proudly said, "When I was in Vienna, my mentor once told me, 'You can never have enough compressors.' However, I think the Heavenly Channel has given me ample space, and my mentor's assertion may not be entirely correct. Sometimes, you have to believe in miracles.

Look at these treasures: 15 models from renowned brands such as Focusrite, Amek, Summit, Drawmer, Manley, deMaria, and dbx. I never dreamed of such a luxurious lineup. This is truly the Heavenly Palace of Recording."

To be honest, even Zhang Yimou, who had seen it all, was shocked by this configuration. It was beyond the word 'luxurious.'

All the equipment was top-of-the-line, and even the chairs were not spared. This was a real money-burner.

Without sufficient financial support, such equipment would be impossible to acquire.

Unfortunately, Zhou Kechang, the section chief, didn't understand much of what Hans was saying.

Waving his hand, Zhou Kechang said, "These things are all great, but I want to know about our task. We need to record a theme song for 'Not One Less.' The rough cut is complete, and it will be released in April. Time is of the essence. How long will it take you to finish?"

Hans, who had been speaking loudly like a rooster, suddenly had his throat clamped by a large hand, turning his face red.

Sighing helplessly, Hans said, "One day. If there are no major issues, it can be done in one day. Section Chief Zhou, don't doubt our capabilities. Of course, the singer must be in top form. We have top-notch equipment, but we can't control the singer's state."

Zhou Kechang felt that this was the most sensible thing Hans had said. Nodding, he said, "It's good to know we can complete the task quickly. Director Zhang, are you satisfied with this place?"

Satisfied, of course. How could he not be satisfied with this place?

Even Hollywood might not have a more advanced recording studio.

Zhang Yimou said, "Thank you, Section Chief Zhou. I am very satisfied. Please tell the leadership that I will not let them down. 'Not One Less' will be released on schedule."

With these words, Zhou Kechang finally breathed a sigh of relief. He had gone to great lengths to have the Baihua Palace shut down for renovation and to contact the Lingxiao Hall, not just for Zhang Yimou's words.

'Not One Less' was under Zhou Kechang's direct responsibility. If he could handle this task well, his career would be on the fast track.

Therefore, Zhou Kechang said with confidence, "Use it as much as you need. There are no problems. We will ensure everything is perfect. I will coordinate any issues within the station. If you need anything, just call me. By the way, I heard the National Opera House's orchestra is recording a program. Should I coordinate with them?"

Zhang Yimou knew the impact a good orchestra could have on a song, especially for film music. He readily accepted the offer.

Hans sent someone to coordinate with the National Opera House's leader, Mr. Deng.

When Mr. Deng heard that his orchestra was being asked to accompany a singer, he was furious: "What is this? You're looking down on art. Do you know what art is? True art is priceless. Those outside stars think a little money will get us to accompany them. Tell them to dream on. Even if you bring the director here, I won't do it. I'll quit if I have to."

Mr. Deng was genuinely angry. The National Opera House's survival was already precarious, relying on state subsidies. Artists naturally had a sense of pride.

Even the other members of the orchestra felt this request was unreasonable.

When Zhou Kechang heard that the National Opera House was not cooperating, his face turned dark.

Zhang Yimou quickly said, "Section Chief Zhou, I think there's been a misunderstanding. I know Mr. Deng, a very artistic and warm-hearted person. It must be that the staff didn't explain clearly. I'll go and clarify."

Zhang Yimou personally went to see Mr. Deng, who was still angry. Looking at Zhang Yimou, he put down his teacup and said, "Yimou, what are you doing here? Aren't you busy with a movie?"

Zhang Yimou smiled and said, "Mr. Deng, I'm actually inviting you to do the dubbing. I've been busy with a movie that needs a theme song. I need to record it before the release, and the leadership has coordinated this recording studio.

I heard you're recording a program here, so I thought you could help?"

Mr. Deng was taken aback and said, "Your movie, is it the one about the Hope Project, 'Not One Less'?"

Zhang Yimou nodded and said, "Yes, that's the one. It's not a commercial film. I wouldn't dare ask you for a commercial film. I can't afford your fees."

Mr. Deng's lecture fees were in the thousands, and even then, he might not accept the money.

Hearing Zhang Yimou's words, Mr. Deng's expression softened. "Is that so? Don't try to fool me. I know your tricks. Did you bring the song? Since it's for the Hope Project, we'll help without hesitation."

The National Opera House's orchestra was a collection of the country's top artists. Each one was a master, and you might not be able to afford their help, even with money. They wouldn't lower themselves for ordinary performances.

Mr. Deng came to the recording studio and looked at Ye Ming, who was young. He said doubtfully, "You wrote the lyrics and music. Tell me about it. This is for children. I'll help if it's good, but if it's garbage, I won't stand for it."

Ye Ming wanted to check Mr. Deng's data, but the system issued a warning.

[Master Level, Host Level Too Low, Instantly Kills Host, Cannot Investigate.]

Ye Ming was shocked. A Master Level, impossible to investigate. Such a person's help was invaluable.

Ye Ming then played the piano and sang the song.

[Every time, I stand strong in loneliness and hesitation. Every time, even if I'm hurt, I don't shed a tear. I know I have invisible wings...]

When the song ended, there was a moment of silence. Everyone was immersed in the melody, which touched the deepest, most tender parts of their souls.

Everyone has a soft spot, and this song touched it, making tears fall involuntarily.

Emotions turned to tears, blooming into flowers of hope in the air.

After the silence, thunderous applause broke out.

Most of the people present were top vocalists, and even Zhou Kechang, who was not an expert, was deeply moved.

Mr. Deng wiped away his tears and said, "Good, a rare good song. Everyone, let's do our best today. We can't let the children down. Give your best performance."

The top-notch recording studio, the top-notch orchestra, everything was truly the best.

Ye Ming adjusted his state and sang with full passion.

One take, two takes, three takes...

By lunchtime, everyone was tired.

Recording this song was incredibly difficult.

Even a small issue with a note could require a re-recording.

Even Zhang Yimou said it was fine, but the perfectionist Ye Ming, after listening to a take, felt his singing was weak. He looked at the tired orchestra and thought of familiar scenes.

Scenes from 'Not One Less' replayed in his mind.

He needed to reach that realm, a spiritual and ethereal state, standing on the Loess Plateau, facing the Yellow River, with the wind howling and dust swirling.

The sun rose suddenly.

He needed to touch people's hearts, not just the director Zhang Yimou, but also the audience.

He needed to make the audience feel a sense of immersion, to be moved by the song.

Ye Ming sang with full passion for the last time, finally achieving the spiritual and physical unity he sought.

In the ordinary, a glimmer of hope shone.

This was what 'Invisible Wings' aimed to express.

It told every ordinary person not to give up on their dreams, as if they had invisible wings.

Hope is always ahead.

Hope is always for those who never stop striving.

Even in failure, one must fail on the path of struggle.

After the recording, Ye Ming collapsed on the sofa in the tea room.

Zhang Yimou smiled and said, "I didn't expect you to be so dedicated. Your work ethic is like that of top stars like Andy Lau and Leslie Cheung. You're an actor, so why are you so dedicated to singing?"

Ye Ming smiled and said, "If I promised to do something, I'll do my best."

Zhang Yimou nodded, appreciating his character. "That's a good attitude. But don't expect any money from me. This is a volunteer effort, so you won't earn a cent from this song for 'Not One Less.' I can see this song will be a classic, a timeless hit. Do you feel like you're losing out now?"

Ye Ming smiled and said, "Losing out? I knew it was for the Hope Project, so I never expected any money. I understand. But I need a copy of the master tape. My album is due for release soon, or my boss will kill me."

Yonghua holds Ye Ming's contract, and he needs to release an album with Yonghua.

Ye Ming felt it was time to start releasing his album.

PS:

Many people might never visit the Heavenly Channel. To give you an idea, I visited the Heavenly Channel in 1998. Just the grand hall's luxurious decor could outshine a five-star hotel.

On both sides, dozens of large-screen TVs played programs from the Heavenly Channel.

It was truly awe-inspiring.

Before Director Yang, the Heavenly Channel relied on government subsidies. After his reforms, by 1997-1998, the Heavenly Channel was a highly profitable organization.

It was like a money-printing machine.

The Heavenly Channel's recording studio is more than just top-notch.

It's worthy of the name 'Lingxiao Hall.'

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