Chapter Fifty-Seven: The New Year's Eve Gala

Chapter Fifty-Seven: The New Year’s Eve Gala

A New Year’s Eve Gala could never be as tightly arranged as the Spring Festival Gala, nor would there ever be a situation where a singer could greet the audience on stage and then utter a few meaningless words.

Yang Xin’er didn’t say much, but her words still carried a hint of “showing off her husband.” Anyone could hear the admiration she felt for Zhang Le in her tone.

“Existence” is a song rich in meaning, performed by many singers. Besides the songwriter himself, the most famous version is by G.E.M., who rose to fame on “I Am a Singer.” This time, Yang Xin’er performed G.E.M.’s version.

How many people keep walking, yet are stuck in place?
How many people are alive, yet live as if dead?
…
Who knows where we should go?
Who understands what life has become?
…

Yang Xin’er’s previous songs were mostly love ballads, characterized by a gentle style. “Existence,” however, is a rock song brimming with explosive power, different from other rock songs which often express anger or criticism.

“Existence” isn’t a song that makes one’s heart flutter; it’s a song that strikes like a thunderclap. It reveals the harsh, negative side of the world and of this era. Yet, this merciless exposure of wounds evokes a sense of authenticity, making the work especially powerful. Beyond awakening a sense of existence in people, it inspires them to strive for their own being, turning negative energy into positive through music.

Yang Xin’er’s performance completely overturned her previous image. No one expected that so much strength could reside in her slight frame. A powerhouse, an iron lung… Whether in the audience or watching from home, everyone was deeply moved.

Of course, the shock came not only from Yang Xin’er’s unexpected performance but also from the reflections the song itself provoked.

As they listened, everyone seemed to be interrogated, questioned, and challenged. Their long-lost capacity for reflection seemed to awaken after hearing this song—a reminder to ponder their own existence, the meaning of being, how to exist, and how to exist better!

Yang Xin’er’s performance was undoubtedly a triumph.

As thunderous applause erupted from the audience, Zhang Le had already stepped onto the stage. Smiling at Yang Xin’er, he understood from the change in atmosphere and the current excitement that she had succeeded. She had taken a solid step forward in her career as a singer.

Yang Xin’er and Zhang Le embraced briefly, then parted—one forward, one back. She didn’t linger on the stage, nor did she waste words; she knew that this moment belonged to Zhang Le.

“A song called ‘A Life in Full Bloom.’ I hope you like it!” Zhang Le’s introduction was simple, almost perfunctory, unlike those who shout “Hello everyone! Where are your hands? Let me hear your voices!” for ages upon taking the stage.

Thinking back, Yang Xin’er had only boasted about her boyfriend being the songwriter earlier, and Zhang Le’s restraint matched hers.

No nonsense; the music would speak for itself. There was no need to stir the atmosphere through interaction with fans, nor to assert his presence with empty words.

The music began, and from the introduction alone, many recognized another rock song. To their surprise, Zhang Le wasn’t just skilled at writing love songs; he was equally adept at others.

How many times have I fallen on the road?
How many times have my wings been broken?
…
I want a life in full bloom,
Soaring through the vast sky,
…

“A Life in Full Bloom” is a passionate, powerful anthem, filled with energy and fervor. This song is deeply moving, offering a unique interpretation of both rock and the meaning of life.

Both “Existence” and “A Life in Full Bloom” are rare gems of rock music, and both radiate positive energy.

Wearing sneakers, jeans, a white shirt untucked, and a black casual blazer, Zhang Le was simply and casually dressed. Yet, his singing still moved every fan in the audience, even those watching at home.

The atmosphere reached an unimaginable high. But when Zhang Le finished, he just bowed and said “Thank you,” then left the stage without lingering.

The applause rolled on like a tidal wave.

The ovation lasted so long that not even the host, Ning Jing, could quell the audience’s enthusiasm when she returned to the stage.

Yang Xin’er and Zhang Le’s performances were so unexpected, even “stunning” would not be an exaggeration.

“Why are your palms so sweaty? Were you that nervous?” As soon as they left the stage, Yang Xin’er approached Zhang Le, eager to praise his performance. But as she took his hand, she felt it slick with sweat.

“Why must it be nervousness? Why can’t it be exhaustion or the heat?” Zhang Le smiled.

“Fine, you weren’t nervous—you were tired or hot. Still, your performance was fantastic. Now, who can say you avoid commercial gigs because you’re afraid of the stage?” Yang Xin’er replied.

Zhang Le’s performance had indeed surprised her. She’d heard “A Life in Full Bloom” countless times, but never had it moved her as deeply as this live rendition.

There were too many detractors of Zhang Le, and his refusal to accept numerous commercial performances had naturally drawn criticism. The most common accusation was that he feared the stage—that he was only good for studio recordings.

Yanjing TV wasn’t the only station hosting a New Year’s Eve gala, but theirs was undoubtedly the most watched and influential. At the gala, Zhang Le and Yang Xin’er once again lived up to their reputation as “star snipers.” Among all the guests, they weren’t the most popular nor the most senior, nor did they even get the closing slot, yet they stole the spotlight from everyone.

Mentioning Yanjing TV’s New Year’s Eve gala, people instantly thought of Zhang Le and Yang Xin’er, and the media coverage focused on them. Even the established superstars present seemed to become their supporting cast.

“Who would dare share the stage with you two in the future?” joked Feng Lei the next day, when the media coverage was released.

Zhang Le paid some attention to the reports, not for his own sake, but for Yang Xin’er. He wanted to know whether her performance of “Existence” had the impact he anticipated.

Three new songs, after the New Year’s Eve gala, soared to the top of the charts within days, fighting for first place among themselves, all receiving unanimous praise.

Especially among rock-loving musicians, who voiced their long-held conviction: “Rock will never die!”