Rhythm and Ray: A DJ’s Journey

[Chapter 237: Seeking External Support]

"Welcome back to American Top 40! After the commercial break, we have a special guest joining us! Ryan, to be precise, another Ryan! Why does he have to share my name? Soon, I might lose my identity," host Ryan Seacrest expressed with a hint of frustration.

This was a music program under iHeartRadio, which counted down the most popular music based on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the most listened-to music shows in the country, reaching over 500 radio stations and an audience of about 20 million.

Previously, Ryan had teamed up with Taylor for a segment on a station under Cumulus Media, and iHeartRadio, at that time, was still known as Clear Channel, the largest radio company in the U.S.

"Hello everyone," Ryan said into the microphone, sitting next to the host while he did his opening remarks.

"First question: Have you seen the article in DJ magazine?" The host immediately jumped into the topic.

"Of course, I checked it out as soon as I could. The club manager Sean told me DJ magazine would have a surprise for me, and I didn't expect it to be this kind of surprise," Ryan responded self-deprecatingly, not avoiding the subject but rather addressing it casually.

"I'm about to become the most blacklisted guy in the industry," Ryan added with a chuckle.

"So, are those rumors all false?"

"Not entirely. For example, I did sign contracts with my DJs that prohibit them from performing at other clubs. From a contractual standpoint, it's a bit heavy-handed, and I admit I will revise that in the future. But even if I do, it won't matter in the long run," Ryan shifted his tone.

"What do you mean?" The host looked confused.

"It's simple. All DJs associated with me, including myself, are strictly forbidden from performing at any other nightclubs, especially those in Europe. It's a one-sided ban. Not only that, but other renowned DJs are also forced to choose sides. If they perform at Bad Room, they won't get invited to other top clubs, especially those in Ibiza. If the magazine claims I'm engaging in unfair competition, then what do these clubs count as?" Ryan candidly stated.

"Ryan, I have to remind you that this show has a large listenership. If you spread any unfounded rumors, you might face serious legal repercussions," the host cautioned.

"Of course, I can always stand by what I'm saying right now," Ryan nodded. "Some friends in Europe had already warned me about this. For some reasons, I didn't publicly announce it right away. Anyone can check Bad Room's recent performance schedule; we haven't had other top DJs perform in quite a while. You can confirm this with other renowned DJs as well."

"Clearly, someone has taken action on this. I can only imagine the uproar once this episode airs. But back to the music, let's set aside these business battles for now."

"So, the second question: Has Taylor Rivers seen that article?" The host probed, this question being sharper than the previous one.

"I believe so. We spoke on the phone yesterday; she sounded calm, and we didn't even discuss those matters. Here, I want to make it clear to Taylor that I did not have a private party with the cheerleaders after the performance," Ryan shook his head.

"Are the intimate gestures mentioned in the report false? Or was there something else besides the private party? I'm asking for Taylor!" the host continued pushing.

"Then I must clarify: a high five shouldn't count as an intimate gesture, right?" Ryan commented.

"You better be talking about just a high five," the host chuckled. "Last question: This is something I don't think anyone has ever asked you before, about your stance on zero tolerance for all 'substances,' including entertainment drugs. The deputy editor of DJ magazine wasn't allowed into the club because his attire didn't meet your standards, and many are quite unhappy with these strict rules. Aren't nightclubs supposed to be places for relaxation? Don't you think your approach might create more tension?"

"You're right; nightclubs should be places of relaxation. In fact, there was a misunderstanding. I have no discrimination. The deputy editor was simply turned away because he didn't adhere to the dress code. I checked with my staff; he was wearing sandals -- it's that simple. It had nothing to do with his position," Ryan continued to clarify.

This allowed Ryan to sidestep the most controversial viewpoints from the report.

"Regarding the zero-tolerance policy, I simply enforce the laws as required by the local jurisdiction. Everyone knows these things are dangerous. Many people die in nightclubs every year. I'm trying to create a safe, comfortable environment where people can relax," Ryan added, following the host's line of inquiry.

"It's also worth mentioning that Bad Room will also have activities in the near future, including the current two branches, which will launch ticket promotions. Additionally, all three Bad Rooms will feature entirely different live activities," Ryan seized the opportunity to promote.

"Alright, listeners, if you're looking to relax and listen to some explosive electronic music, check out Bad Room's website or give them a call for more details. Let's take a short break. When we return, I'll be chatting with Ryan about his recently released single Friends," the host concluded.

...

"You can take off the headphones now," the host said, noticing the staff giving him a thumbs up through the glass.

"Those questions I just asked, they didn't offend you, did they?" he cautiously asked.

In reality, Ryan was aware of all these questions beforehand, and they had been pre-approved before the show. In a sense, this was a form of crisis management.

"If the questions weren't sharp enough, and we only discussed trivial matters, then this show would lose its value," Ryan commented.

"You see through things better than many others," the host chuckled.

For a program, ratings were essential. As long as they could boost the ratings, anything was fair game.

...

In the next segment, the host shifted the focus to Ryan's new song. Being a music show, that was the real highlight.

"Ryan, your new song is refreshing. I noticed Mixmag columnist Joe Muggs wrote a review titled 'Once Again, Changing Everything.' Can you talk about what innovative changes your new song has made?" The host dove into the discussion.

"In the past, when we heard electronic music, the first impression was loud, strong bass, and energy -- perfect for parties. But if someone played it late at night, their neighbors might show up with a shotgun.

Considering a broader audience, my new song doesn't emphasize strong energy anymore. I've removed the kick drums and intense drops, shifting instead to a lively pop rhythm with a more mellow Future Bass drop. The vocals take center stage rather than the melody. In other words, electronic music has taken another step toward pop," Ryan explained.

"Even though it's a bit beyond my understanding, I can certainly hear the difference between the two songs. Thanks for your insights," the host acknowledged, expressing hope that the audience would support Ryan's new track.

"Nonetheless, pop music has evolved over time, now so different from the classical dance tracks of MJ. How do you explain this phenomenon?" the host continued, being the first to compare Ryan to MJ.

"I can only say that every era has its sound. Due to technological advancements, maybe today's music sounds fresher, but that's just the enhanced effects. No one can compare to the true King of Pop, including myself -- there's no doubt about that," Ryan stated, firmly distinguishing himself from MJ.

This might have been just an offhand joke by the radio host, but at that moment in the studio, neither of the two would have imagined that a pop icon would pass away unexpectedly just over a month later.

...

The host then discussed recent significant events in the music scene: Robin Williams' return after three years, Bob Dylan's comeback, Green Day's shocking release of their new album 21st Century Breakdown, Eminem's new album after five years, Lady Gaga redefining female pop artists, and Britain's Susan Boyle.

"I think Susan Boyle is the real miracle," Ryan had to concede.

In the European market's download rankings, his new song was outranked by a middle-aged unknown woman. Who could he complain to about that? It was utterly ridiculous.

"Additionally, I have to mention the Black Eyed Peas. This group clearly took inspiration from your songs, blending elements of hip-hop and rap into a mind-blowing album. Ryan, even though you're here, I have to admit that the biggest surprise of this year was the Black Eyed Peas' The E.N.D.," the host stated candidly. "Of course, that's assuming you haven't released a new album."

...

As the interview wrapped up, the host mentioned Ryan's latest collaborator, Ellie Goulding, known for her soft vocal style.

"I've noticed that this British singer is also under your label. Given the younger DJs you've previously signed, does this mean you're looking to continue capitalizing on the music market and introduce more new talent?"

Ryan shook his head, admitting that his most questionable move so far had been signing the female singer.

"I'm afraid I'm not quite as visionary as Jay-Z in this regard." Ryan conceded that the resources he poured into developing the female singer hadn't made much of a splash, especially considering Taylor just handed off two artists to him, and there wasn't even a new song from them.

Look at Rihanna, she was on the same level as Taylor.

"Honestly, Jay-Z has produced several successful stars; Rihanna is just the one who stood out among many. You still have plenty of opportunities," the host encouraged at the end.

...

Having finished recording, Ryan hustled off to his next gig -- The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. He also had interviews with Rolling Stone and Billboard magazines, along with appearances on music podcasts like All Songs Considered and The Breakfast Club. With the release of his new song and facing backlash, Ryan was determined to ramp up his promotional efforts.

...

Rumors mentioned during the radio show started to gain traction online.

[I checked Bad Room's performance schedule, and since a while ago, no renowned DJs have performed there.]

[Tiesto responded and stated he had just performed at Bad Room and had no plans to return soon. As for any ban, he hadn't heard of such news.]

[Armin's response was similar.]

[David Guetta didn't provide any response to this matter.]

[Clearly, Ryan's leaked details weren't entirely true.]

[It's also possible that these DJs agreed to stay quiet; let's not forget -- they're Ryan's competition.]

[Now it's a battle of claims, but who should we believe?]

[Why search for a good guy or a bad guy? When interests are at stake, there's no right or wrong. Besides, if Ryan is profiting, will he share a dime with you?]

Ryan scrolled through the internet comments, noting how public sentiment had shifted from unanimous opposition to a more rational stance.

"He who slays a monster will eventually become a monster," Ryan sighed. He was no longer the naive newcomer he used to be.

At this rate, the Bad Room Carnival would undoubtedly face serious challenges. He needed to turn things around quickly.

...

Just then, Taylor called him. Their conversations had become increasingly frequent lately.

"Don't worry about what others say. Just like you told me before, this is a long game," Taylor comforted him over the phone. "Your new song and the two DJs under your label are drawing attention, and that's enough. Time is on our side."

"But the Bad Room Carnival's opening is just around the corner. I have to find a way to break through, or else I fear no DJs will come. Even without these troubles, those European DJs will still behave the same way," Ryan suddenly said.

Their remarks had already indicated their positions.

"Only one person can help us right now. We have to seek external support this time."

"Who?" Taylor asked curiously.

"Jimmy! As a representative of Universal Music and Lady Gaga's behind-the-scenes collaborator, we've worked with him before. He has numerous artists under his wing; filling the carnival lineup would be a piece of cake. If those Europeans are banding together, we should do the same," Ryan continued.

"Why would he help you? What do you have that can entice him?" Taylor pondered.

"That's easy... he wants to make money, doesn't he?" Ryan replied with a laugh.

"Are you thinking of giving him part of the carnival's shares?"

"No, that's a core asset. Collaborating with Bad Room is much more suitable," Ryan contemplated. After all, Los Angeles was a crucial city on the West Coast with significant spending power. Without a doubt, Jimmy was the perfect fit, and this partnership would cement their mutual interests.

"As long as the demands are reasonable, I'll collaborate with him," Ryan decided, realizing it was not the time to nitpick over trivial matters.

*****

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