Duncan sat perched on a high stool at the bar, gazing at the lights above him. It wasn't out of curiosity but rather a way to pass the time, a yearning for the daily entertainment.
Music had the magical ability to bring joy, and he was eagerly anticipating the performance. Just a bit of music could make the evening enjoyable. He eagerly awaited the lead singer's introduction:
"...Welcome to our kingdom."
The introduction was simple yet full of youthful energy and confidence.
Some of the nearby patrons playfully shouted and teased:
"We need to see the perks first,"
"Your king doesn't look very impressive,"
"Is this an Amway sales pitch?"
Their cheerful voices were filled with jest and banter, instantly igniting a lively atmosphere in the bar.
Duncan couldn't help but let a small smile curve his lips.
The lead singer on the stage remained unfazed by the jesting, maintaining a calm tone. He even added a touch of humor, saying, "Well, then, listen carefully, and decide for yourselves whether it's worth it. But don't be fooled by me."
His confidence, humor, and ease won over the audience.
Laughter erupted from the crowd!
Those who hadn't had high expectations for the opening performance were now intrigued.
Sam Payne, the owner of the bar, was also present.
Sam had witnessed countless bands and performances, and he had his own opinions, even if he wasn't a professional music critic. His impressions of Kings for a Day from the previous night hadn't been particularly favorable.
They appeared to be a pop-rock act, and their music seemed rather mainstream, lacking any distinctiveness. It hadn't even reached the level of a catchy tune.
If they were under a big company like Disney, such a band might find success because the company had the resources to promote them through other means.
But in an ordinary setting without those resources, it was challenging for mainstream bands to thrive. Sam was initially unimpressed by them and hadn't seen their potential.
However, the band's interpretation of "Don't Stop Believing" had been refreshing. The melody, the emotions conveyed, and the performance had all left a strong impression on him. It made Sam question whether he had misjudged the band.
Perhaps there was more to them than met the eye. That's why he had given them a second chance to perform tonight. He wanted to see if there was something he had overlooked. After all, it was just one performance, and it wouldn't make or break the bar.
Sam sat at the far end of the bar, partially concealed in the shadows, his gaze critical yet filled with anticipation. His attention was focused on the stage.
Onstage, Ronan turned to his bandmates:
Ollie, the drummer.
Cliff, on the guitar.
Maxim, on the bass.
With each step he took, Ronan felt the solidity of the stage beneath his feet. His nervousness had transformed into excitement, rushing forth like a wave.
With a slight nod and eye contact, Ollie's drumsticks struck the snare drum, creating a crisp sound. The instruments came to life together, weaving a melody that was lively and layered, spreading out sensuously and radiating throughout the venue. The music made their fingertips dance lightly.
Ronan placed his guitar behind his back and held the microphone with both hands. He tapped the microphone stand lightly with his index finger, matching the rhythm set by Ollie.
Despite his initial nervousness, Ronan now felt relaxed and at ease. The sensation of standing on the stage and being immersed in the music allowed him to forget his anxieties. The melodies flowed naturally, and even the lyrics came effortlessly.
It was a delightful experience.
"Turn on that radio
As loud as it can go
Wanna dance until my feet can't feel the ground"
Initially worried about forgetting the lyrics, Ronan had managed to recall them despite the tight time frame. The familiar feeling had washed over him as the drumbeat began.
It was as if the melodies were ingrained in his very cells, effortlessly flowing out. The lyrics followed suit.
It was a true delight.
"Say goodbye to all my fears
One good song, they disappear
And nothing in the world can bring me down"
The articulation was clear, the vocals were crisp, and the rhythm was lively. The joy and happiness embedded in the lyrics seamlessly blended with the musical notes, bubbling and flowing like a rushing river, creating a tinkling symphony. The lyrics were simple but conveyed the most genuine emotions.
It was like watching a high school student perform.
High school students might represent innocence and simplicity, but they also symbolized pure enthusiasm.
The youthful heart was simple, transparent, and clear, as if it could be seen through at a glance. It was that very purity and unwavering enthusiasm that made it stand out.
As people grew older, that simplicity often faded, along with the pure enthusiasm of youth.
Ronan's performance embodied the purity and enthusiasm found in the lyrics. Every word was beautiful and moving. Even the simple chords were played with lightness, awakening memories of magnificent beauty in the hearts of the audience. It was as if their fingertips were quietly tapping in harmony.
Ronan then raised his hands high and began clapping to the rhythm:
"Hand-clapping, hip-shaking
Heart-breaking, there's no faking
What you feel, when you're right at home, yeah."
A series of intense drumbeats elevated the emotion to a new peak. Ronan firmly gripped the microphone with both hands and sang passionately,
"Music's in my soul
can hear it every day and every night
t's the one thing on my mind"
A brief pause, a deep breath, and he continued:
"Music's got control
nd I'm never letting go, no-no
just wanna play my music"
With lightness, fervor, and excitement, Ronan's final note soared. It wasn't a challenging high note, but under Ronan's interpretation, it felt relaxed and effortless.
Yet, it conveyed the heartfelt passion that resided deep within him, rising like a bubbling wave, nearly scalding the hearts of the audience.
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Note 1: "Play My Music" by the Jonas Brothers.