[ALERT]
Welcome to Rockstar 360. Looks like you have balls after all, but do you have the work ethic? By clicking next, you agree to all our terms (which is really nothing much). This app will give you all the skills and training you need to achieve your goal, but it is in no way a cheat... everything will be average. To rise above that, the user will have to adhere to instructions and put in a lot of individual work and discipline. This platform will merely push you (sometimes shove) in the right direction. Success ultimately depends on the user.]
These were the words that met Abel's eyes the moment the app opened (which was almost instantly). For a while, his gaze was transfixed on the screen as he read and reread the words.
He didn't know what to feel... his brain felt like it was overheating as he tried to understand the simple grammar but complex idea that the app was pointing out.
For example, what the hell did it mean by saying it wasn't a cheat code? Why would it masquerade as one? The earlier message had made it appear to be some sort of cheat—otherwise, how would it achieve the task of transforming a hopeless nerd like him into a rockstar legend?
Abel began to feel a disappointment crawl in, but then the next part of the alert mentioned that it would offer all the skills and training. That's where Abel froze for a while.
Come to think of it, a large part of a music career depended on skills and training too. He hadn't actually thought of it this way.
He hadn't even dared to practice his voice out loud (though he could bet his voice wasn't the worst). But for a singer of the caliber he desired to be, it would need to be much more than "not the worst."
Abel realized that even without much effort, he had already ruled out his chances in the music industry.
The only thing he had persisted on was his songwriting (which itself never left the confines of his bedroom) and the electric guitar that hung loosely on the wall.
Just by looking at it, one could tell that it hadn't been touched for a while, based on the dirt that covered what would have otherwise been a shiny surface.
He had given up practicing the chords almost a week after he had spent nearly all his saved pocket money to buy the guitar.
For all it was worth, the only thing he had learned were the basic strumming patterns and maybe a few beginner chords, which he couldn't even transition between without looking at his fingers.
All in all, he was worse than average, so the fact that this app was promising to equip him with skills even at an average level sounded like a deal of a lifetime.
Taking a breath to still his pumping heart, Abel clicked "Next."
[Huff! Unrealistic expectations are the biggest source of disappointment and quitting. Now that it's out of the way, by clicking next, the system will ask you questions to help you establish and set your musician profile.]
At this point, he realized that he did not care anymore whether he was chasing wind. He was now doing it for the thrill it offered. Having been used to engaging with video games, this one did not feel way off. He clicked next.
[Way to go future rock star! Let's start by getting to know you better. The answers you provide will help shape your musician profile. Be honest—this is about who you are and who you want to become.]
The first question popped up immediately:
[1. What instrument do you feel most connected to?]
- A. Electric Guitar
- B. Bass Guitar
- C. Drums
- D. Keyboard
- E. Vocals
Without hesitation, he selected A. Electric Guitar The guitar was more than just an instrument to him; it was a symbol of all the dreams he'd never harbored since he was a kid. Even if his skills were rusty, it was still the thing he felt most connected to.
[2. What style of music resonates with you the most?]
- A. Rock
- B. Pop
- C. Metal
- D. Blues
- E. Jazz
Abel smiled. This one was easy. He tapped A. Rock. He could already imagine himself shredding on the guitar, lost in the energy and emotion as he created a powerful rock anthem.
[3. How do you view yourself as a performer?]
- A. A natural born leader, front and center
- B. A supportive team player, blending in with the band
- C. A mysterious figure, letting the music speak for itself
- D. An experimental artist, pushing boundaries
"As if that was even a thing," Abel thought to himself. What was the point of being a rockstar if you couldn't front your art? This was showbiz—it was either you went all in or not at all. He chose A
[4. What's your biggest fear in pursuing music?]
- A. Failing in front of others
- B. Not being good enough
- C. Losing passion for music
- D. Being misunderstood
This question hit home. Abel felt a knot in his stomach as he read the options. It wasn't just the fear of failing; it was deeper than that. It was Not being good enough. That fear had haunted him for as long as he could remember. What if all the practice in the world wouldn't be enough to make him anything other than his current state? Just the thought of it was petrifying.
[5. How much time are you willing to dedicate to your craft?]
- A. An hour a day
- B. A few hours a week
- C. Half of my free time
- D. Every spare moment I have
Abel hesitated, knowing this was where things got serious. He had to be realistic, but at the same time, if he was going to do this, he wanted to give it everything he had. He chose Every spare moment I have. If this app could really push him in the right direction, he was willing to pour all his tears, blood, and sweat to see it through.
[6. What's your ultimate goal as a musician?]
- A. To create music that touches people's hearts
- B. To achieve fame and recognition
- C. To master the art of music itself
- D. To inspire others with your journey
This was not even a question. Abel thought about his dreams, about the notebook under his pillow, and about the life he wanted to escape from. It had to be B. He wanted his music to inspire, but what good would that be if he ended up being an unsung hero? There was no way any of his goals would be fulfilled without him going big.
As soon as he answered the last question, the screen flashed, and a new message appeared:
[Great job, Abel! Your profile is now complete. Here's a snapshot of your rockstar persona:]
**Instrument of Choice:** Electric Guitar
**Preferred Music Style:** Rock
**Performing Style:** Natural Born Leader
**Biggest Fear:** Not Being Good Enough
**Commitment Level:** Every Spare Moment
**Ultimate Goal:** Achieve Fame and Recognition
[Your personalized training program is now being set up based on this profile. You'll receive targeted exercises and challenges that will help you develop your skills and achieve your dreams. Remember, while this app will guide you, your success will depend on your dedication and hard work. When you are ready to begin your journey, Click 'Start Training' to dive in.]
Abel stared at the screen, taking in the details of his profile. This was more than just a series of questions; it was a reflection of his heart and those ambitions he had poured into his notebook.
He now realized that having reached this far, he was fully invested. If anything turned out to be a lie, it would likely throw him into depression. He was about to press next when a thought occurred to him... Checking the time, he was surprised to see it was already 7 PM.
"Fuck, I have to order food fast." He did not feel particularly hungry, but he could not say the same about his mother. She was often famished when she got home. He would order quickly and then he would have plenty of time to check the training.