Reset Life with Infinite Talents - Chapter 202

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Team. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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Infinite Talent Reset Life Episode 202

“Johann, as the first Asian to win in the rap field, did you expect to win?”

“If I had known, I would have made a cooler expression…”

No.

Because he caused a syndrome in the second half of 2015.

And although he was a mixed-race of white and Asian with no black blood at all, he thought there was enough possibility of winning with the talent of ‘2PAC, Tupac Amaru Shakur’.

However, he suppressed the surging thrill and pretended not to know.

‘Some black people would feel resistance.’

Black people who had suffered extreme discrimination just because of their different skin color. They sang to break down the rigid social perspective that oppressed them.

However, ironically, black people regarded the rap field as their sanctuary, saying that hip-hop by other races wasn’t hip-hop, creating the very stereotypes they so desperately wanted to break.

Therefore, while someone might acknowledge Johann’s music, if he accepted it as if he naturally expected to win, it could cause great resentment.

So Johann came up with a clever plan.

“Of course, since Will here handled the producing, it would be a lie to say I had no expectations at all, right? Thank you, Will. Thanks to you, I received this honor.”

By emphasizing that Will.i.am, who is black, participated as a producer, and even saying it was thanks to him, the resistance from black people would decrease.

Will.i.am, who caught on, naturally acted as if it was indeed thanks to him.

“Oh, bro. Just with words?”

“Should I buy you a yacht?”

“Hahahahahaha!”

People burst into laughter again at Johann’s cute bravado, having just become an adult, and threw questions at him.

They asked everything they were curious about, from the shocking stage performance to episodes during promotional activities, and Johann answered everything with an excited face.

“Good job.”

When the satisfied reporters held microphones toward Camila and Will, the faces of Larry, Johnny, and Andrew Pearson who approached were rippling with all kinds of emotions.

The Best Rap Song award that even they hadn’t expected.

All sorts of thoughts came to mind, but they swallowed them down. Because they knew how hard Johann had worked all this time.

“Aren’t you disappointed that you didn’t win in the General Field?”

“It’s okay. We made history.”

Disappointing but satisfying.

“Phew. Yeah. We made history.”

Although Eminem had shown that other races could also win in the rap field, the rap field had still been exclusively for black people for over a decade.

However, Johann, an Asian mixed-race, won Best Rap Song, showing that racial barriers had been completely broken down.

Hope was born that anyone, regardless of race, could win awards.

The rock craze that had blown since the creation of Saint Rock last year would surely hit hip-hop as well.

Johann had written that history.

It was truly admirable and respectably cool.

“Your value must have skyrocketed even more, right?”

“Is that even a question?”

At Johann’s words, Larry and Andrew Pearson showed him the list of calls they had made after Johann’s win.

The two had talked with over 20 companies in that short time.

“Appearance fees have risen by more than 10 percent.”

Johann’s eyes sparkled.

“Oh, really? Then let’s upload the Hong Kong videos too.”

The video of Johann and Camila in special makeup singing in Tsim Sha Tsui and saving a Netflix employee, and the video of saving the young girl Ling Ling at Dragon’s Back Mountain.

If these videos were uploaded, appearance fees would rise even more.

“Please prepare for the classical performance too.”

March should be enough.

“Understood.”

As Andrew Pearson withdrew with satisfaction, Larry put his arm around Johann’s shoulder.

“You’re not leaving right away, are you?”

“Of course not!”

It was his first party in life. Moreover, now that he was an adult, there was no reason to leave early – it was a moment he had eagerly awaited.

“I’m definitely participating. Emily will arrive soon too.”

Since it was his first party in life, he had already finished coordinating with Emily.

“Haha! Yeah, let’s go!”

Johann headed toward the after-party venue with an expectant expression.

Buzz buzz!

“Wow, wow.”

“Calm down.”

“Sorry. I, I can’t calm down!”

Taylor Swift, the idol of teenage girls, along with currently popular Meghan Trainor, Carrie Underwood, Ellie Goulding, and Lady Gaga.

Emily’s eyes, tinged with enchantment, rolled around mercilessly.

Johann watched this and smiled proudly.

‘This is my level!’

To the extent of coming to such a place.

His chest swelled with pride.

“Want to take a photo with Terry?”

“Terry?”

“Taylor Swift.”

“…Crazy! You’re on casual nickname terms with Taylor?”

“There’s an interesting story.”

The story of not only Taylor Swift but also Madonna and Ariana Grande having a staring contest in front of the men’s bathroom to request songs from him.

Honestly, they weren’t close enough to use nicknames, but since it was in front of his girlfriend, he showed off a little.

Johann said this as he stepped into the banquet hall.

Step!

As soon as he crossed the threshold, the noise quickly subsided.

Eyes gathered on him.

And…

“Hey! Little Jefferson!”

“Johann!”

Not only acquaintances like Bruno Mars, Maroon 5, Joe Walsh, and Robin, but also various rappers including Kendrick Lamar approached.

A huge wave came rushing over.

‘Wow.’

It felt like becoming the protagonist.

“How did you do that? That thing!”

Bruno Mars was so excited he even omitted the subject.

“Ah, the combination of classical and hip-hop?”

“Right! That! How did you create it?!”

“Uh… it just worked when I tried it?”

How could he say that Rachmaninoff and Tupac understood each other and created it together.

“Just, just like that?”

“Yes.”

“This crazy bastard…”

Bruno Mars and other singers burst into hollow laughter. Kendrick Lamar also clicked his tongue at the distant talent and hardened his gaze.

“Have you decided on a name for the genre?”

What would this great artist define that marvelous genre as?

The eyes of rappers including Kendrick Lamar became anxious.

“…No.”

Johann, who was about to answer, quickly changed course.

There was a name that Tupac and Rachmaninoff had decided on.

Hip-hop concerto.

But seeing these rappers with gleaming eyes, a certain thought crosses his mind.

“Hmm. Do you happen to have any recommended names?”

“…You’re asking us?”

“Yes. You’re the ones who know rap best, who’ve lived with hip-hop.”

So he entrusts the genre’s name to them as well.

“Oh… Puhaha!”

Smiles begin to form on the faces of the rappers who had been looking at Johann unfavorably just because an Asian had won an award in the rap field.

Seeing this, Johann also smiles inwardly.

‘It went according to plan.’

Rappers who are idols to Black People.

‘Their words are the public opinion of Black People.’

In other words, if he makes them allies, he won’t need to worry about Black People anymore.

“How many after-parties like this have you been to?!”

Flinch!

“Uh… This is my first party ever.”

“What?”

Disbelieving gazes pierce into Johann.

“N-not even house parties?”

“I’ve been to a few home parties and barbecue parties. Same with my girlfriend.”

“Crazy.”

A blank canvas, a natural monument.

The tainted adults who had instinctively stepped back suddenly force smiles at the dazzling radiance that seems to emanate from Johann and Emily.

They secretly exchange glances, wondering what to do.

But they can’t back down now.

Kendrick forces a bright smile.

“Oh, oh! Then this is perfect!”

Because after-parties like this have boundaries.

A much safer party than house parties where anything could happen. It could be called the perfect place for a first party.

“Let’s go! I’ll teach you everything!”

Everything about parties from A to Z.

And while doing that, they’ll decide on the genre’s name and share stories about how it was created.

“Oh, Kendrick. Little Jefferson is my friend though?”

“And yet you didn’t teach him about parties?”

“…Let’s all enjoy together! Let’s go, Little Jefferson! Emily!”

“I’m taller than you.”

‘Oh. A party taught by successful stars.’

Johann and Emily’s eyes sparkled.

And so their first party in life began.

* * *

“Hahahaha!”

People glance toward the center of the banquet hall.

Johann, Bruno Mars, Kendrick Lamar, Taylor Swift, and other great singers are gathered together, blooming with laughter.

“Did you hear? That guy has never been to a party before.”

“My God. Handsome but a loser? …That’s my type though?”

“Every woman’s type! Selena, what do you think?”

“Not liking parties is something to praise.”

At Selena Gomez’s cold words as she glanced at Justin Bieber, Justin Bieber’s face crumples. The people around them laugh awkwardly.

Justin Bieber, a notorious party maniac.

‘Damn it. That fraud bastard!’

“Huh? Justin, what’s wrong?”

“…I’m going to the restroom.”

Justin Bieber expresses his displeasure by not giving a kiss.

As Justin moves away from his girlfriend, he snatches champagne from a passing server and gulps it down.

Whether it’s because he drank too quickly or too much, Justin Bieber staggers.

“J-Justin. How about you stop drinking now? You’ve had a lot.”

“Shut up. I know my own body!”

‘He’s pissed off.’

Probably because of Johann.

Justin Bieber had been conscious of Johann from before.

Johann, who was similar in age and possessed talent recognized by the world. Even his appearance shone, so many people compared Johann and Justin Bieber.

But even though Justin himself released a new song and performed on stage, all attention was focused on Johann.

He had completely lost to Johann.

‘He’s probably thinking that right now.’

What would have happened if he had released an album at the same time as Johann?

He had originally tried to release his album earlier. But with Bruno Mars and others being so formidable, and wanting to show through this album that he had become a mature adult, the release date got pushed back.

In that situation, Johann burst onto the scene and swept up all the attention, and Justin Bieber’s comeback album wasn’t receiving as much attention as expected.

“Why aren’t you saying anything? Are you ignoring me too?!”

“Oh, no way. You know I’m the one who worries about you most.”

“…Tch.”

Since it was true, Justin Bieber’s anger subsided slightly as he glared at Johann.

“Why everyone likes that fraud bastard…”

“Fraud? Johann Jefferson? Oh, my God. Justin, you don’t think Johann Jefferson uses a ghostwriter, do you?”

“Ha! If not, how could an Asian…”

“No. Never say those words out loud.”

Aerosmith, Eagles, and Led Zeppelin vouch for him, and Bruno Mars, Will.i.am, Eminem and others acknowledge him.

He also conquered the Queen Elizabeth Competition and Tchaikovsky Competition.

Such thoughts shouldn’t even be entertained. If spoken aloud, an unbearable backlash would follow.

“Ha! I’m Justin Bieber! The world’s most influential male singer number one!”

He wouldn’t fall to such backlash, and when the truth is revealed, it would actually benefit him.

“No. I warned you. If you say those words without consulting me, I’ll quit being your manager.”

“You’d quit being my manager because of that bastard?”

“So if you don’t want to fire me, don’t even think it.”

‘Listen to me, you brat!’

“…Tch.”

A manager who takes care of many things, sometimes like a friend, sometimes like a mother.

With a crumpled face, he throws the empty champagne glass into his manager’s arms.

“Ugh? Where are you going?”

“Restroom!”

Justin Bieber walks with heavy steps, curling his lips.

“This guy and that guy are all just cowards and blind fools!”

Though he says this, he also knows now isn’t the time. With everyone praising Johann right now, badmouthing Johann would only be poison.

‘But castles built on lies will crumble soon!’

That’s the way of the world.

Justin Bieber decides to wait for that time, thinking he’ll be the first to trample him when the moment comes, as he enters the restroom.

Flinch!

Swoosh.

“Oh, hello.”

Johann washing his hands.

He feels a surge of anger. Facing the fraudster who stole the attention that should have been his, who wouldn’t have succeeded like this if he had released an album at the same time, makes something hot rise to his head.

However, he forces himself to hold back.

Because it’s not the right time yet.

‘But a warning should be fine!’

A bitter sneer appears on Justin Bieber’s face.

“Enjoy it to your heart’s content while you can. A fake like you will soon return to where you belong.”

“…What the hell is this idiot saying?”

Johann looked at Justin Bieber, who was picking a fight out of nowhere, as if he couldn’t believe it.

* * *

Johann Jefferson, first Asian to win Best Rap Song!

Upset after upset! 2016 Grammy Awards!

Is the era of black people’s dominance over?

Eminem, the award he should have naturally received.

Jay-Z praises the Grammy’s fair judging.

Kendrick Lamar’s shocking statement: If you listen to that song and still say it’s not hip-hop, go see a doctor!

Following Saint Rock, the fusion of hip-hop and classical! What should this genre be called?

Johann Jefferson causes another stir this year! We’re living in the same era as a great musician!

Johann Jefferson with that stupid face again this year!

Leaving the team was the best choice, Camila Cabello!

18-year-old genius musician wins 8 categories total! Unfortunately, no General Field awards!

The shocking 2016 Grammy Awards!

“There’s never been anything certain about the Grammys. Well then.”

“Wait, just a moment! Greg!”

“Please say just one more thing!”

A fat white man in his 40s pushes through the rushing reporters and enters the VIP room, loosening his tie.

“Those damn reporters anyway…”

“Haha! Good work, Greg.”

“Good work my ass. Don’t spout words you don’t mean.”

He had to do the interview just because he was the youngest among the judges.

“Uhahahaha!”

“Puhahahaha!”

“Hohohohohoho!”

Greg wrinkles his nose at the judges holding their stomachs and downs the champagne he was holding.

Then he smiles.

“In the end…”

Everyone’s attention focuses on the quietly resonating voice.

“Our gamble was successful.”

Flinch!

“Didn’t I tell you?”

Greg, who had been muttering while looking at the ceiling, looks at the judges with burning eyes.

“That the world has changed.”

Greg, who said the era of accepting processed information called news as truth was over, and argued they should evaluate everything based solely on merit.

“Race? Gender? PC? Ha, look.”

The reporters’ outcries.

The public’s evaluation.

The posts going up on the internet.

Over 80 percent are praising their decision.

“Why did Vogue’s Anna Wintour become powerless?”

Anna Wintour, editor-in-chief of Vogue, who was the absolute power in the fashion world.

She was a figure who wielded absolute power to the extent that the clothes and models she chose became that year’s trends and celebrities. Because Vogue was the world’s top fashion magazine.

But even such a great person has now become a toothless old beast.

“It’s all because the world has changed.”

Because the internet connected the world.

Because it directly connected companies and the public.

Wanting to imitate the fashion of stars you like is natural human psychology.

Fashion companies, tired of Anna Wintour’s tyranny, began providing their clothes not only to models but also to stars, and that became the fashion the public loved.

As a result, fashion companies no longer felt the need for Anna Wintour, and her downfall happened all too quickly.

Moreover, this phenomenon began spreading to companies in other fields as well.

Would the popular music industry be any different from this phenomenon?

“The public is no longer a bunch of stupid beings.”

Through blogs and community sites, they’ve gained the intellectual ability to discuss collectively and derive the best results.

They’ve become able to create public opinion on their own without the help of media companies.

They’ve become the majority. They can now create and wield the power called public opinion, beyond the timid retaliation and protests through phone calls or postcards.

“Look. This is the result.”

The transparent fairness of the Grammy Awards proven by Johann Jefferson’s Best Rap Song win.

Honestly, it was a gamble.

Because the rap field had only been permitted to black people until now.

Because Eminem was just an irregular existence.

However, Greg convinced the reluctant judges that there should no longer be any sacred territories, and they ended up receiving praise like this.

“Didn’t I also say that if we make the right decision, successful hip-hop stars, the idols of black people, would have no choice but to agree?”

The pride of hip-hop artists who, even when dissing everything about opponents they dislike or want to crush, still acknowledge good songs.

‘I thought it would be enough if only Eminem, who had been continuously praising Johann, agreed…’

“Most of the idols are praising our decision and applauding. Of course, that crazy performance played a big part too.”

The fusion of classical and hip-hop.

That incredible miraculous opening performance.

The moment he heard it, he became convinced once again.

That giving the Best Rap Song award to Johann, who caused a syndrome, was never the wrong choice.

That anyone who still brings up Johann’s skin color after hearing that would be an idiot.

“Since we’re evaluating the important categories fairly like this, for the ambiguous categories…”

“Ahem! That’s enough.”

“Hmm. I got it, I said.”

“Thanks. Thank you! Is that good?”

“…Heheh. Don’t forget that you all owe me.”

After making eye contact with each of the clicking judges, he got up and headed to the restroom.

Then he picked up his phone.

“Yes, Mr. Warner. Thank you for the advice.”

Bane Warner of Warner Brothers, who had asked them to evaluate this judging based solely on the songs.

In accordance with the Grammy Awards’ purpose of contributing to maintaining diversity so that music can represent everyone’s voice without distinguishing race, gender, occupation, etc.

Conversely, Bane Warner also added a threat to be prepared if Johann won an award he shouldn’t have won because of his request.

So Greg created public opinion for the first time since becoming a Grammy Awards judge, and conducted truly fair judging without an ounce of personal interest.

“Yes. Yes. Then I’ll see you next time.”

Meanwhile, in a different space from Greg.

“Yes, Mr. Jefferson.”

“Yes, Mr. Kellner.”

Several judges, the ones who had immediately agreed with Greg’s words, were having similar phone calls to Greg’s.

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This chapter was translated by Lunox Team. To support us and help keep this series going, visit our website: LunoxScans.com
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