Behind The Spotlight Chapter 177
Based on Collin's negotiation alone, he earned $4.3 million from representing Princess Chantal. That meant the deals Princess Chantal earned that required representation amounted to around $86 million, considering Collin's commission rate was 5%. He had just recently jumped to a 6% commission rate this December.
And that was only from the deals that needed representation. Princess Chantal also earned money through album royalties, concerts, merchandise, and licensing, all of which were rapidly growing as her fame exploded. In fact, her biggest earnings probably came from album royalties. Her album sold more than 10 million copies worldwide in just a single year. The average sale per album was around $15, depending on the type.
It was no surprise that her earnings exceeded $100 million. Thinking about it, Collin suddenly realized how profitable being a music artist was, they earned millions. It was almost absurd how one successful year could change a person's entire life. No wonder someone like Jackson Mike could become a huge player in the music industry, even owning the Beetles catalog, considered one of the most valuable collections of music rights in the entire business.
'When I heard that music artists can earn 10 times what a superstar actor can earn annually, I thought it was bullshit. But now, looking through the statistics, I guess the truth is not that far and maybe even understated.'
But then again, only superstars like Princess Chantal and other famous singers could replicate this kind of achievement. More than 90% of singers in the industry couldn't even earn $100,000 in a year through singing. It highlighted how brutally competitive the field was. It just meant Princess Chantal was amazing and talented.
Suddenly, Collin felt excited about Arnold's endeavor regarding Mikael Wagner. If Arnold successfully created a band for Mikael, then Mikael's career would be set for life. The potential profit margin was simply too great to ignore. Collin didn't feel regret or jealousy about giving Mikael's contract to Arnold, he wanted his best friend to thrive, and he genuinely believed Arnold deserved a massive win.
Collin was the type of guy who wanted to see his loved ones happy. If Arnold reached a higher status, then that would be great, and it would also strengthen their professional network.
Of course, Collin also had a plan. He would convince Arnold to sign Mikael and his upcoming band to Moonrise Music, ensuring both personal and financial benefit. In that way, Collin would also get a share of Mikael's success.
'After thinking about it seriously, I've earned more by being a shareholder of Moonrise Music than by being Princess Chantal's talent agent.'
Life was indeed playing with people.
Vivian talked about their plan for next year.
"Moonrise Music will help Princess Chantal with the world tour." Vivian looked at Lila, out of all of them, Lila had the best grasp of worldwide promotion, and she had numerous contacts.
"I'll contact some people to help you," Lila promised. At first, she just wanted to help Vivian with her dreams. But now that Moonrise Music was doing well and producing a solid return on investment, Lila had even more reasons to help.
"Aside from Princess Chantal's world tour, Moonrise Music is also interested in looking for a new artist to cultivate, someone with long-term promise."
With that, Vivian and Lila looked at Collin. Being the guy who discovered Princess Chantal, they were expecting something from him.
In fact, Collin discovered Jennifer Randon, Axel Gunner, Wyatt Bray, and Lawrence Terrence. A lineup impressive enough to cement his legacy. These four people were all successful, which meant Collin's eye for discovering talent was sharp and precise. Even Vivian was amazed by his work history as a talent agent.
Naturally, Lila knew better, and she also believed in Collin's capabilities because she witnessed his growth firsthand.
"Well, I don't want to promise anything, but I'll try." Collin was not sure if Arnold could convince Mikael and Pulse Static, but he hoped so.
"There was a small event yesterday. I heard many agents contacted a new applicant, but the applicant apologized and told them that you and Arnold already had a plan for him," Lila added.
"The news spread that fast?"
"Two executives from the film department contacted me and complained. They said you should give others a chance."
"That's why I let Arnold handle Mikael Wagner," Collin replied, trying not to sound irritated.
"They didn't find it acceptable. They want this Mikael Wagner guy." Lila shrugged. Honestly, as long as ANT was doing well, she had no problem with internal politics. If it would make the company stronger, then so be it.
As for Collin hoarding talents, Lila knew he personally saw something in those hidden gems and helped them shine. Naturally, he deserved something in return.
Collin sighed. When the news spread that he became an executive, another executive contacted him to convince him to give one of his clients. Any of Collin's clients was profitable, even Jennifer Randon. The female host now earned $50,000 per episode as of Season 3 of The Singing Voice.
"They said they can also make Mikael a famous actor, they claim they have their means to do so," Lila added.
"An actor?" Collin raised his voice. He found that idea atrocious. That was the most stupid plan. In the first place, Collin didn't see any talent in Mikael's acting. He was meant to be in a rock band and sell concert tickets.
Collin frowned. Mikael was definitely not meant to be an actor, and Collin would do his best not to let it happen, even if he had to argue with half the company.
"Did I say something wrong?" Lila asked when she saw Collin appalled by the idea of making Mikael an actor. She heard Mikael Wagner auditioned to be an actor, and most of the agents who were interested in him were from the film department, which explained the misunderstanding.
"No, it's nothing." Collin didn't elaborate. For now, he had no intention of spreading the news that Mikael Wagner would lead a band. He wanted to avoid the wrath of the music department as much as possible... although once they heard about it, they would also go crazy and probably fight for Mikael, too.
"Alright, let's end this meeting. Collin, contact me once you find someone we can sign," Vivian announced.
"I promise. I'm going to earn money from this anyway." Since Collin found a prospect, he would work hard to achieve it.
Lila and Collin left the building. Fortunately, the elevator was working, so they didn't have to use the stairs anymore. Moonrise Music was also interested in finding a better place for their studio.
They were now earning millions, and there was no reason to be cheap. Even Princess Chantal was complaining that their studio was troublesome to visit. Of course, they must not disappoint their star, especially with her rising global status.
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[Author's Note:]
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