章 74: Chapter 74: Drop The Beat!
As Geon's live performance reached its conclusion, a man in the hushed audience, who had clenched his fist from the beginning to the end of the song, finally relaxed his tense arm and broke into applause.
"Clap, clap, clap, clap."
Gradually, the onlookers, who had initially offered evaluating gestures with a haughty expression, began to join in one by one. Soon, the applause spread throughout the entire venue.
"Woohoo!!!"
"Ohhhh!!"
"Waaaaa~~~"
Philip, glancing at Norman with an astonished expression after witnessing him lean back in his seat, chuckled. Vinnie and Rex also let out discreet laughter as they observed Norman's reaction. Philip, raising one hand toward the cheering audience, grabbed the microphone and shouted.
"My friend, who is watching us from above. I sing for him. Let's go!"
In the subsequent live performance lasting about an hour and a half, the audience was truly immersed in ecstasy. Norman, a critic, was particularly astonished by Philip's vocals. When Geon unleashed sharp guitar sounds, Norman's expression transitioned from amazement to standing up from his seat in awe.
After receiving an encore four times, a rare occurrence for a U.S. band performing in the UK, the members returned to the waiting room. Despite entering the room with bodies drenched in sweat and exhaustion, all of them had bright expressions. The next day, the well-known British broadsheet 'Telegraph' featured an article.
**<Article Title: Self-Reflection on Prejudice>**
The author had previously written negatively about the U.S. rock group PANTERA's visit. After attending the live performance with the assumption that their sound wouldn't be as good as before due to the death of Dimebag Darrell, the author felt significant disappointment in his own prejudices. PANTERA was just as they used to be, or rather, they returned even more powerful than during Dimebag Darrell's lifetime.
Philip Anselmo's screaming vocals and Kei's guitar, which felt like being slashed with a razor blade, were more intense than before. Especially, Kei's guitar performance, taking over from Dimebag Darrell, made the author reflect on his past arrogance. The author apologizes in this article for his arrogant previous writings about them. The guilt peaked when footage of an interview with Dimebag Darrell from his lifetime surfaced.
Of course, what initially surprised the author was not PANTERA's live performance but Kei's debut stage playing songs by the British rock group Bush. The author was captivated by them from the first stage, and during the actual live performance, he was so excited that he never sat down once. Any rotten tomatoes he had intended to throw at them, he would eat himself. So, if his prejudice and arrogance can be forgiven.
**<Music Critic Norman Lebrecht, December 3, 2017>**
While on their way back to the U.S., the members, reading the article that came out, exchanged hearty laughter and high-fived each other. Geon also enjoyed the moment with a happy smile. After that, PANTERA gained great popularity on the European stage, and each time, they could read Norman Lebrecht's favorable articles.
After completing three tours in the U.S., the members and staff threw a party. It was both a celebration of the tour's success and a farewell party as they would now part ways with PANTERA. Philip, who had gotten drunk early on, was being dragged around by Geon as he struggled, and Geon managed to lay the heavily drunk Philip on the hotel bed before looking out the window.
The full moon outside the window appeared exceptionally beautiful. Geon sat by the window, resting his chin on his hand, reminiscing about the dream-like tour with PANTERA. From meeting the inebriated Philip in Seattle for the first time, to preventing Philip from playing instead of the indie guitarist at Crocodile, memories of the practice room where they met Vinnie and Rex, and the guerrilla tours in Korea, to the crisis situations faced in China – all of these moments brought a smile to Geon's face.
"Another memory has been created. Thank you so much for letting me meet such wonderful people. Whoever you are."
A broad smile spread across Geon's face as he gazed at the moon.
...
Geon returned to his Manhattan home after the extensive tour with Pantera. Though Philip was disappointed, Geon finally let go, acknowledging there was much to learn as a student. Vinnie and Rex exchanged greetings multiple times, promising to stay in touch. Lynn returned to China. Despite efforts from American companies to recruit Lynn, she firmly declined and left for China.
After a day of rest at home, Geon went to school the next day and visited Sharon's office. Of course, he had his face covered with a hat and mask.
*Knock, knock*
"Yes, come in."
Sharon, checking student evaluations in her office, was taken aback. It was because a stranger with a covered face had entered. As Sharon reached for the phone to call security, Geon raised both hands, revealing himself by removing the mask.
"Oh my! Kay!"
"Haha, it's been a while, Professor."
Sharon stood up abruptly, hugged Geon, and gestured for him to sit on the sofa.
"It's been a while, sit here. Coffee? Tea?"
Geon chuckled, remembering something Sharon had said before.
"Coffee, please. Haha."
Sharon, with a warm smile, poured coffee from the pot and spoke.
"I saw the news. You had an amazing tour. Really impressive."
Geon nodded slightly and replied, "Meeting good people made it even more enjoyable. Philip sends me texts every day, haha."
Sharon placed the coffee in front of Geon, saying, "Sit down, enjoy. How about Marilyn Manson's news?"
Geon smirked a bit and said, "No, actually, I arrived home yesterday. I was too busy with the tour to pay attention."
Sharon laughed and said, "That band hit number one on the Billboard rock chart with 'Sad Devil Gamygyn.'"
Geon, slightly surprised, asked, "Really? Wow, congratulations. I'll give them a call later."
Sharon showed Geon stills from the music video of 'Sad Devil Gamygyn' on her smartphone, saying, "Kay's appearance had a great marketing effect. Also, Team Button's film did well. The re-release of the film attracted three million viewers in the U.S. Who would believe that?"
The passage is well-written overall, but I've made a few minor adjustments for clarity and fluency:
Geon, pleased with how everything had gone, smiled broadly. Watching Geon's satisfaction, Sharon remarked, "It's already winter break after the summer vacation mission. Time flies."
Geon chuckled and asked, "How did I do this semester?"
Sharon stood up, walked to her desk, and handed a document to Geon, saying, "Why ask? It's an A-plus. Other students worked hard too. Fabio Marchetti from the guitar department, who helped in Kay's studio class, even performed with the New York Philharmonic Orchestra."
Surprised, Geon replied, "Really? Fabio? That's impressive."
Sharon tapped her index finger and explained, "Impressive, but it's a relative evaluation. No one can beat Kay's score. Resurrecting the legendary band Pantera and replacing the genius guitarist Dimebag Darrell is something."
Geon playfully shrugged and said, "I'd like to show a more confident side than a humble one, but you're putting gold on my face, haha."
Covering her mouth, Sharon laughed and asked, "What are your plans for winter break? Planning to cause trouble somewhere again?"
Geon raised an eyebrow and said, "Trouble? I'm not in puberty, haha. I actually want to study something I've been wanting to during this break."
Sipping her coffee, Sharon inquired, "Study? What are you going to study? Music?"
Geon nodded and explained, "I want to learn the CuBase program a bit."
Sharon raised an eyebrow and said, "CuBase? Computer music software? Why all of a sudden?"
Geon played with his coffee cup and said, "Why not? Just thought it would be interesting. I don't want to set musical limits for myself. I want to learn programs that allow me to compose, much like learning various instruments. Actually, the reason I came to see you today is also to get introduced to someone who can teach me."
Sharon expressed disappointment as she spoke, "What? I thought you came because you missed me?"
Geon looked puzzled at first, but seeing Sharon's playful expression, he burst into laughter.
"Haha, of course, Professor. Seeing you is the first reason I came, and what I just mentioned is the second reason. Haha."
After Sharon put down the coffee cup, she rested her chin on her hand and spoke with a thoughtful expression.
"Hmm... CuBase... Well, there's no one at Juilliard who handles such a program, so it's a bit tricky. Uh..."
Waiting for Sharon to ponder for a moment, Geon quietly waited for her to continue. When Sharon stopped and seemed to hesitate, Geon waited for her to make a decision.
"Um... It might be possible with this person, but we're not very close personally, so I'm not sure if he'd be willing to help. I met him only once at a church in Compton during a tour, and I got his phone number."
Geon raised both hands, showing his palms, and said, "Don't force it. If it doesn't work out, I can just go to a music academy."
Sharon, looking at Geon with a stern face, said, "A Juilliard student going to another academy to learn music? That's unacceptable."
Geon grinned and, as if waiting for it, Sharon pressed the call button on her phone.
"Hello? Oh, hi. This is Sharon Isbin. Do you happen to remember me?"
"Yes, yes. It's been a long time. I apologize for calling out of the blue. Could you take a call?"
Observing Sharon's polite conversation, Geon quietly listened to the contents of the call.
"Oh, well, I have a student named 'Kay,' and, uh... Oh, you know him? Yes, yes. He's the student who was the music director for the Scissors Hand band. Do you remember?"
"That student wants to learn how to use the CuBase program. I called because I'm not within the range of what I can teach, and I wanted to ask for your help."
"What? Directly? Are you not too busy? Even if you don't do it yourself, would you mind recommending someone with engineering skills? Oh, okay. Okay. I understand. Then, I'll send the student to you. Thank you so much for agreeing to this sudden request, Mr. Young."
"Yes, let's have a meal next time. Yes, yes."
After Sharon hung up the phone, she sighed and put the phone down.
"I had a hard time asking someone like him. I'll have to treat him to a proper meal later, Kay."
Geon chuckled naturally and asked, "Sure! Of course. But Mr. Young? Who is he? Is he a professor?"
Sharon covered her ears with her hand, closed her eyes, and shook her head. Unable to understand the meaning, Geon widened his eyes. When Sharon opened her eyes again, she said,
"Andre Romelle Young."
Geon raised his head and asked with a smirk, "Andre Romelle Young? What does he do?"
Sharon took out headphones from her drawer, showing them to Geon as she spoke.
"He's also known as the 'Doctor Dre' of American hip-hop."
Geon Kim arrived in Compton, California, pulling his suitcase. Geon, as usual, had his face concealed beneath a hat and a mask while he studied the map on his smartphone.
"Compton High School, and behind it, 'West Cocoa Street,' right?"
Dr. Dre had summoned Geon to his studio on West Cocoa Street. Unlike his visits to Professor John Corigliano and Hans Zimmer's homes, Geon opted for a hotel instead of staying at Dre's house, given he was visiting alone. Turning left from West Arnoldra Drive, Geon confirmed he had reached the correct destination.
"The building with the 'Beats' store on the first floor, wasn't it?"
Observing the tranquility of Compton Street in the late morning, Geon walked a bit further and noticed a large headphone store on the first floor. With a brisk pace, he entered the store. A slightly imposing African-American woman with dreadlocks and chewing gum glanced at Geon. After a momentary hesitation at her appearance, Geon spoke.
"Um... I have an appointment with Mr. Young."
The woman scrutinized Geon for a moment, then went to the counter and operated a PC, seemingly messaging someone. After a while, she nodded at Geon.
"Go downstairs on that side."
"Oh, yes. Thank you."
Nervously descending to the basement with his heavy suitcase, Geon saw an exceptionally glamorous door. At the top of the golden-framed door were the elegantly engraved words "Beats Studio." Hearing faint music from inside, Geon confirmed he was in the right place and adjusted his attire before removing the mask and hat.
Carrying the heavy suitcase, Geon reached the basement and encountered a door that looked dazzling. On top of the golden-framed door, the words "Beats Studio" were engraved in fancy letters. Observing the deserted studio through the large glass window, with engineering equipment scattered in a luxurious room, Geon spotted a black man with a hood, wearing headphones and leaning back with crossed arms. Carefully opening the door, Geon entered.
"Um... hello?"
The black man, with headphones on and initially unaware of Geon's words, sensed someone approaching, took off his headphones, and turned to Geon. The black man, wearing a black hood, didn't appear very tall but had a large build and a fierce appearance. Geon, meeting his sharp eyes, was taken aback and then opened his eyes in surprise.
"Oh, it's Ice Cube!"
Ice Cube, raising an eyebrow, asked, "What? How did you get in here?"
Geon shook his head slightly to regain his composure and said, "Ah, yes. I'm the one who had an appointment with Mr. Young today, they call me K."
Only then did Ice Cube release his clenched fist, stood up, and extended his hand to Geon.
"Oh, yeah. I heard from Uncle. You came to learn the Cu Base program, right?"
While shaking hands, Ice Cube, who also gave Geon a friendly shoulder bump, asked with a grin when Geon laughed awkwardly at his unfamiliar greetings and his tough appearance.
"Uncle just went to make a call. Sit here and wait for a moment."
"Yes, thank you."
As if Ice Cube was going to cut off the conversation, he said that and waited until Geon sat down before immediately throwing a question.
"But hey, you're a Juilliard student, right? The one directing Marilyn Manson music videos and Scissorhands music. Why learn this program? Just play directly. Thinking of trying hip-hop?"
Geon replied, sitting somewhat awkwardly.
"No, I haven't thought about that yet. I just wanted to learn the program, so I asked our professor, and he introduced me to an amazing person. Haha."
Although Ice Cube had said that he speaks kindly, Geon couldn't help but send a slightly apprehensive look due to his intimidating appearance. Ice Cube, seemingly unconcerned about Geon's unease, bombarded him with questions.
"Oh, really? Is there hip-hop in Asia too? Oh, what was it? 'Rich Chigga'? He was good. 'Dat Stick,' right? That song was pretty good. Are you from that country too?"
Geon shook his head and replied, clapping his hands.
"Oh, no. He's from Indonesia. I'm Korean."
Ice Cube expressed a slightly surprised expression.
"Oh~ Korea! I heard a story that Korean hip-hop musicians came and performed when my movie was released in Korea last year. Korea is small, but it's a big market in the art business."
Ice Cube suddenly stood up, approached Geon, and extended his fist. Geon, looking at the fist, raised his own, and when their fists met, Ice Cube chuckled.
"Nice to meet you. I look a bit scary, huh? I hear that a lot. If you don't cause me trouble, I'll be good to you. Let's get along while you're here."
Feeling a liking towards the unexpectedly friendly Ice Cube, Geon's guard seemed to soften as he smiled. Ice Cube, after laughing with Geon, checked his wristwatch. A dazzling metallic watch hung on his wrist.
"Why hasn't Uncle come yet? I need to go out for a moment. If he asks where I went, tell him I went out with Kendrick for a promise. Okay?"
"Oh, yes. I understand. Have a good time."
After Ice Cube opened and left the door, Geon sighed in relief.
"Phew, he really looks scary. He must have lived in a gang or something; the aura is no joke. Anyway, why is this personal studio so fancy? Look at those devices in the room. Just selling the machines in this room would probably be worth millions."
Relaxed, Geon got up from his seat and admired the figures and albums displayed on the shelves. While looking around, Geon stopped and reached out to pick up a CD.
"Wow, 'The Chronic' album. Huh, it was from 1992? It was released before I was born. But it's still famous; it must have been a remarkable masterpiece."
Unable to open the CD, as it was still sealed, Geon began reading the writing on the back of the album. Suddenly, a voice from behind caught his attention.
"Wassup? Oh, you're K? You came while I was on the phone?"
Surprised, Geon barely managed to keep hold of the CD he was about to drop and turned around. A black man, appearing younger than his 50 years with short hair, was grinning at him.
"Oh, Mr. Young. Nice to meet you. I'm K."
"Oh, don't call me Mr. Young; it sounds awkward. Just call me Dre. Friends call me that too."
As Dre approached, he extended his hand, and K, recalling Ice Cube's greeting style, shook hands before bumping shoulders. Smiling, satisfied with K's greeting, Dre spoke.
"Oh? Do we have some black friends around?"
Geon awkwardly smiled and replied, "Actually, I was with Ice Cube until a while ago. He greeted me like this, haha."
Dre listened to Geon's words and looked out the window of the recording studio.
"Oh, really? But where did he go?"
"Uh... Kendrick? I think that was his name. He had a promise and went out."
Dre chuckled and sat down in the studio.
"That kid works hard, huh? Still surprising that there are people who don't know my name."
Geon, thinking he might have made a mistake, widened his eyes. Dre laughed and said.
"Kendrick, I mean. Kendrick Lamar. Haven't you heard of him?"
"Oh, yes? The rapper Kendrick Lamar?"
"Yeah, him. Know him?"
Scratching the back of his head, Geon replied.
"Oh, I didn't think the person who left, pretending to meet a friend, and the one mentioned by the friend would be the same person, haha."
"Yeah, they're friends, hehe."
After turning on the large LED monitor on the desk, Dre spoke.
"Since you're a music school student, I don't need to teach you about composition. Should I focus on showing you how to use the program? Sit here next to me."
As Geon quickly sat in the chair next to Dre, who turned on the monitor in front of him, Dre said.
"We have three PCs, so you can learn by following what I do on that one."
Watching Dre's actions, Geon clicked on the Cubase 9 icon on the desktop. Turning towards Geon, Dre began explaining.
"This program, Cubase, isn't just a vague composition program. It's a program designed to arrange and edit the signals of music easily. If you want to simplify it for a music school student, think of it as having staff paper and a pen inside your PC. You decide what notes to draw."
Geon nodded earnestly as he listened to Dre's explanation. After a while, Dre finished his explanation.
"This program is just a sequencing program. To release your composed music as a record, the quality won't be enough. In the end, after comfortably composing, you either use the same company's 'Steinberg Nuendo' or record with instruments directly, and you have to do additional work to ensure quality."
For about two hours, Geon diligently learned from Dre, starting from how to create a project to setting up devices and connecting instruments as input. Dre talked continuously, as if he were thirsty.
"Cough, I need something to drink. Do you want some juice?"
Geon, without taking his eyes off the monitor, replied.
"Yes, I'd appreciate that. But what is this folder?"
As Dre got up to get something to drink, he laughed after looking at the screen in response to Geon's question.
"You don't recognize it from the folder name? It's called 'shit.' It's just filled with crappy music. Either I didn't finish making them, or I made them and put shitty music in the folder, hehe. Oh, I copied that folder and saved it separately to play around with."
Geon burst into laughter at Dre's words. As Dre went out to get his drink, Geon clicked on the folder. About a hundred music files appeared. After putting on headphones and playing the music, the waveform signals of the played music were displayed on the program screen.
"Isn't it good? Why is this called crap? Can't a musician like Dr. Dre be satisfied with this kind of music?"
Geon, suddenly inspired, began jotting down the beats and sounds flowing from the headphones onto the notebook where he had been taking notes. The notes written by Geon gradually started to shine. After noting down all the notes, Geon took off the headphones and pondered while looking at the notebook.
"Oh, so that's why. Haha. Well then, shall I try turning shit into gold?"
週次パワーステータス
-- 推薦
ランキング 
-- 推薦
チケット