Bab 9: Chapter 9: A Call That Changed Everything
Chapter 9: A Call That Changed Everything
March 1999 – Stratford, Ontario
Age: 5 years, 5 months
The snow was just beginning to melt in Stratford as the first hints of spring appeared. Life felt normal—school, guitar practice, and time with Pattie. But just beneath the surface, an electric anticipation buzzed. The demo had been sent out months ago, and Pattie tried her best to temper expectations.
"You know, Justin," she said one evening as she tucked me into bed, "sometimes things take time. We just have to be patient."
"I know, Mommy," I replied. "But what if they like it? What if someone calls tomorrow?"
Pattie chuckled softly, brushing my hair back. "Then we'll figure it out together, just like we always do."
Pattie's Perspective
By March, I had all but convinced myself that the demo wouldn't lead to anything. Life as a single mother had taught me to prepare for disappointment. But then, on a cool Thursday morning, the phone rang.
"Hello, this is Pattie Mallette," I answered, balancing the phone on my shoulder as I poured Justin's cereal.
"Mrs. Mallette, this is Scott Braun," the voice on the other end said, smooth and professional. "I represent So So Def Recordings. We received Justin's demo and—well, let's just say we're very impressed."
For a moment, I couldn't speak. "You—you liked it?"
"Liked it?" Scott laughed. "Your son has a rare talent. We'd like to meet him and discuss the next steps."
I nearly dropped the cereal box. "Oh my goodness. That's amazing. When—when would you like to meet?"
"Can you both come to Atlanta next month?" Scott asked.
My heart raced. "Yes, we can. Thank you so much."
As soon as I hung up, I turned to Justin, who was happily munching on his breakfast. "Justin," I said, trying to keep my voice steady, "someone from a big music company heard your demo. They want to meet you."
His eyes widened. "Really? Do they want me to sing for them?"
I nodded, smiling through my tears. "Yes, baby. They want to hear more."
Justin's Perspective
The idea of traveling to Atlanta was both exciting and scary. Pattie explained that we'd be meeting important people who could help with my music career. I spent the next few weeks practicing nonstop, determined to show them my best.
The night before we left, I sat with Pattie in the living room, strumming my guitar. "What if they don't like me?" I asked.
"They're going to love you," she said firmly. "Just be yourself, Justin. That's all you need to do."
April 1999 – Atlanta, Georgia
Age: 5 years, 6 months
The flight to Atlanta was my first time on a plane. I stared out the window, mesmerized by the clouds. Pattie held my hand tightly during takeoff, her own nerves showing despite her attempts to stay calm.
When we landed, a car was waiting to take us to the studio. The building was massive, unlike anything I'd ever seen in Stratford. Inside, we were greeted by Scott, a tall man with a warm smile.
"Justin, it's so great to meet you," he said, shaking my hand. "I've heard your demo, and I can't wait to hear you live."
He led us to a recording booth where I performed two songs—one from the demo and another I'd been working on at home. As I sang, I noticed Scott nodding along, his smile growing wider.
When I finished, he clapped. "That was incredible, Justin. You've got a gift."
Pattie's Perspective
Seeing Justin in the studio was surreal. He looked so small in front of the microphone, but the moment he started singing, he commanded the room. Scott was clearly impressed, and my heart swelled with pride.
After the session, Scott sat us down in his office. "Mrs. Mallette, I'd like to offer Justin a development deal," he said.
"A development deal?" I asked, my hands trembling.
"It's a way to help him grow as an artist," Scott explained. "We'll provide vocal coaching, studio time, and eventually work on an album. Of course, you'd be involved every step of the way."
I glanced at Justin, who was grinning from ear to ear. "That sounds amazing," I said, my voice thick with emotion. "Thank you so much."
Justin's Perspective
I didn't fully understand what a development deal was, but I knew it meant more music—and that was all I cared about. On the flight back to Stratford, I couldn't stop thinking about the studio, the people, and the possibility of making an album.
"Mommy," I said, looking up at Pattie, "do you think I can do this?"
She smiled, her eyes filled with determination. "I know you can, Justin. You were born to do this."
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Chapter 9 marks the beginning of Justin's journey into the professional music world. From receiving the pivotal phone call to performing in a professional studio for the first time, the chapter captures the excitement, nerves, and unwavering support of Pattie. It sets the stage for the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead as Justin takes his first steps toward stardom.
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