Volume 1, Chapter 126: Turbulence on the Web

The trending topics concerning Jiang Yu have completely dominated the charts, with the discussions surrounding him far outpacing any other subject. It is hardly surprising; while award ceremonies happen every year and conflicts inevitably flare up, the explosive nature of this year’s events is truly rare. Jiang Yu’s name has become a permanent fixture in online searches, eclipsing even the so-called rising superstars and idols like Xu Kun, who boast hundreds of millions of followers. Every related topic has garnered six-digit engagement, sparking a mix of fervent praise and vitriolic abuse.

Some netizens, having examined the sequence of events, argue that the Chinese Golden Melody Awards should never have bestowed an award upon an English song. They point out that Jiang Yu was nominated in nearly every category only to be treated as a mere prop, before being forced to perform and subjected to pointed, aggressive questioning. To them, this was a calculated effort to suppress him, and the level-headed observers are standing up for his cause. His performance on stage was faultless, and as the saying goes, those who provoke others only invite their own humiliation.

On the other hand, the opposing camp is fixated on a single point: Jiang Yu’s alleged lack of respect for his seniors. They argue that as a newcomer who only debuted a few months ago, he should not have acted so arrogantly in the presence of industry titans. They ignore the context entirely, focusing solely on hurling insults. The two sides are locked in an endless, tumultuous debate.

"Honestly, what those people sang was garbage; elementary or middle school students could do better. And they got awards? Never mind comparing them to Jiang Yu—even that English song was inferior to what he could produce," one user wrote.

"Give it a rest," a detractor retorted. "An English song winning a Chinese Golden Melody Award is an absolute joke."

"Those seniors have attended the awards for years without winning, serving as mere background figures. Why should Jiang Yu be so special that he must win on his first try? There’s such a thing as seniority, you know?"

"Exactly! He’s so young; what would it have hurt to let the seniors have it this time? He’ll have plenty of chances later. Instead, he declares war on the awards just because he lost—he’s just looking for attention!"

"Hilarious. Since when are awards based on seniority? If that were the case, the superstars wouldn't need to work so hard; they could just wait around to accumulate tenure!"

"Are these people actually trying to defend them, or are they just making them look worse? I can't help but laugh."

"Regardless, as a newcomer, Jiang Yu’s failure to respect his elders proves his poor character. He doesn't even write his own songs anymore. 'Master the craft, then master the morals'—is he just being hypocritical? In this industry, suffering a little loss is a blessing."

"What kind of twisted logic is that? Are you saying if someone hits you, you should just take it without fighting back?"

"Exactly. 'Suffering is a blessing'? That’s just moral kidnapping. Hey, I’m poor—give me your money. After all, you said suffering is a blessing!"

The netizens attacking Jiang Yu were unable to critique the quality of his music, so they resorted to attacking his moral character, showcasing nothing but stubborn, irrational obstinacy. The entire internet was in a state of chaos.

Just then, a bombshell news item flooded the web. The official Weibo account of the Chinese Golden Melody Awards released a new statement:

[Since its inception, the Chinese Golden Melody Awards have upheld principles of fairness and transparency. However, recent rumors regarding alleged corruption have appeared online. We deeply regret these rumors and reserve the right to pursue legal action. Furthermore, we advise certain artists that the Golden Melody Awards are not only a standard for judging talent but also for assessing artistic integrity. We do not welcome those who possess talent but lack virtue, or those who are arrogant and conceited.]

When netizens saw this, the internet exploded again.

"The biggest joke of the year! 'Fair and transparent'—and you give a Chinese award to an English song. Tell me more about your fairness."

"You’re just bitter that others won. I think that English song sounds great. Isn't a good song all that matters?"

"If we’re talking about good songs, isn't Jiang Yu’s 'Rise' much better than that 'Hughug' song or whatever it’s called?"

"Doesn't matter how good it is; your precious Jiang Yu will never be allowed in the Golden Melody Awards again."

"Who cares about an award riddled with corruption? I can't explain this to these brainwashed fans. I officially announce that I will never watch a livestream of these awards again."

"Stay bitter, keep being bitter."

Just as the arguments reached a fever pitch, a new post appeared. Pop diva Yang Weiwei posted: [My new album is coming out soon, titled 'Legend.' Here are two of the lead singles for everyone to enjoy~ They are wonderful! By the way, a huge thank you to little brother Jiang Yu. You are such a kind person; I truly love these two songs and hope we have the chance to collaborate again!]

As expected of a superstar. Immediately after the post, a massive wave of fans swarmed in.

"Wow, is sister releasing a new album? Buying it right now!"

"Sister, why are you letting Jiang Yu write songs for you? His character is really bad!"

"I’ve listened to them. 'Legend' and 'Red Bean' are so beautiful! Thank you, Jiang Yu, for writing these for our sister."

"I used to like her, but I never expected her to work with Jiang Yu. Unfollowing."

Then, a veteran superstar also weighed in. Zhou Muren: [@Yang Weiwei, these two songs are incredible. I’ll definitely support the new album when it drops. @Jiang Yu, little brother, since you wrote such great songs for Yang Weiwei, I want songs of the same quality too. You can't play favorites, you know!]

Following this, many other veteran stars began tagging Jiang Yu, extending goodwill and asking for songs. The netizens were stunned—so many top-tier stars speaking out at the same time, all for Jiang Yu!

The earlier post from the Golden Melody Awards and the vitriol from netizens had led some misinformed people to believe Jiang Yu was truly a person of poor character. They thought his music was talented, but they disliked the person. However, the posts from these superstars left them completely bewildered. Could someone who commands the friendship of so many legends really be a person of low character? Was it truly the Golden Melody Awards that were at fault? Many rushed to watch the replay of the ceremony and finally understood the truth. Public opinion began to shift back in Jiang Yu's favor.

...

"Look at the massive stir you've caused this time," Su Ling said, rolling her eyes at Jiang Yu.

Jiang Yu chuckled. "Did you ask Sister Weiwei and Brother Zhou to help me?"

"No, the company doesn't have the budget for that kind of PR!" Su Ling retorted.

Su Muyu stepped forward, held Jiang Yu’s hand, and smiled. "They called me yesterday. This was their own initiative."

"I didn't expect them to be so loyal! I’ll have to write them a couple more songs next time."

Su Ling glared at him. "If you have that kind of talent, why don't you write some for the other singers in the company?"

"I’ve already picked out a few people. I’ve been very busy, but once things settle down, I’ll cultivate them personally."

Hearing this, Su Ling nodded in satisfaction. "At least you have a conscience. But now, you need to focus on your concert. This is your first one—take it seriously, understand?"

"Don't worry, Auntie. My first concert will absolutely not embarrass Xiaoyu!"

"Can you stop being so obvious? Is it her face you'd be embarrassing? It's mine!"

"You both have the surname Su; it’s all the same."

"Fine. I’m going to post on the official Weibo and prepare for the ticket presale."