Chương 10: Chapter 10: The Road to Stardom
Chapter 10: The Road to Stardom
May 1999 – Stratford, Ontario
Age: 5 years, 7 months
Returning to Stratford felt surreal after the whirlwind trip to Atlanta. Pattie and I had a lot to process—papers to sign, plans to make, and dreams to chase. But amidst all the excitement, life continued. I still had school, chores, and playtime with friends.
Pattie did her best to keep things normal for me, but the looming reality of what lay ahead made it hard. Late at night, I'd sometimes hear her on the phone with Scott or whispering prayers under her breath.
One evening, as we were finishing dinner, Pattie sat me down. "Justin, things are going to change soon," she began.
"Like what?" I asked, my curiosity piqued.
"Well, we might need to move. Maybe not right away, but if this deal works out, we'll need to be closer to the studios," she explained.
Move? The thought of leaving Stratford—my friends, my school, and my grandparents—was daunting. But I trusted Pattie. If she believed this was the right path, so did I.
Pattie's Perspective
The deal with So So Def was moving quickly. Scott sent over contracts, which I had a lawyer review to ensure Justin's rights and future were protected. It was overwhelming, but I reminded myself why we were doing this: to give Justin the chance to shine.
In the meantime, I kept Justin grounded. We still attended church every Sunday, and I made sure he finished his homework before practicing guitar or singing.
One day, while we were grocery shopping, a woman approached us. "Aren't you Justin? The little boy who sings?" she asked.
Justin nodded shyly. "Yes, ma'am."
"I saw your video at church. You have an incredible gift," she said, smiling warmly.
As we walked away, Justin turned to me. "Mommy, do you think everyone will like my music?"
"I think they already do," I replied, squeezing his hand.
June 1999 – Stratford, Ontario
Age: 5 years, 8 months
The first major step in my career was a professional photoshoot. Scott arranged for a photographer to come to Stratford, and Pattie made sure I looked my best—polishing my little leather shoes and combing my hair until it was perfect.
The photoshoot was both exciting and awkward. "Smile, Justin!" the photographer encouraged.
I smiled, then laughed when he made a silly face. By the end of the session, I was running around the studio, pretending the camera was a spaceship.
Pattie's Perspective
The photoshoot was another reminder of how quickly things were changing. Scott planned to use the pictures for promotional materials, including a portfolio to send to potential collaborators.
After the session, Scott called with more news. "We're planning to bring Justin to Atlanta again next month," he said. "We want to start recording some demos."
Recording actual demos? The thought both thrilled and terrified me. But I knew Justin was ready.
Justin's Perspective
By the time July rolled around, I was more excited than nervous. The idea of going back to Atlanta felt like an adventure. Pattie and I packed our bags, and she made sure to bring my favorite guitar.
The studio was just as I remembered—big, bright, and full of possibilities. This time, Scott introduced me to more people: producers, vocal coaches, and sound engineers.
"Okay, Justin," one of the producers said as I stepped into the booth. "We're going to record a few songs today. Just relax and have fun."
I sang my heart out, putting everything I had into each note. When the session ended, Scott clapped. "You're a natural, kid," he said.
Pattie's Perspective
Watching Justin in the studio was surreal. He seemed so small behind the microphone, but his voice was anything but. He poured his soul into every song, leaving everyone in awe.
After the session, Scott pulled me aside. "Pattie, I've worked with a lot of talented kids, but Justin is different. He's got something special."
Tears filled my eyes. "Thank you," I whispered, overwhelmed with gratitude.
Justin's Perspective
Back at the hotel that night, Pattie and I celebrated with pizza and ice cream. As I sat on the bed, strumming my guitar, she smiled at me.
"Justin, no matter what happens, I want you to remember this moment," she said. "You're doing something amazing, but it's important to stay humble and kind."
"I will, Mommy," I promised.
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Chapter 10 captures the transition from normal life in Stratford to the early stages of Justin's professional career. With photoshoots, recording sessions, and plans for the future, the chapter highlights both the excitement and challenges of chasing a dream.
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