Surviving (Surrender 2)

She thinks it through before she answers, “Of course, I’ll agree if you think it’s best. I’m not an expert but are you sure it’s the right song? It seems a little emotional for a debut. I would think you’d want to go a more upbeat route. Maybe one of the first three, those are your trademark songs. Your local fans love them.”

“Raven, you’re right, it is customary to push a more known song for the local following. However, we’re going to do things different. I understand you just heard this and it might have overwhelmed you. But from where I’m sitting, it’s the best choice. I’ve spent hours listening to these tracks. My first reaction to the end result of “Surviving” was similar to yours. But when I listened to it again and again, I realized the story it told and the proverbial happily ever after. It’s gut-wrenching and rough, but it’s brilliant.” Mike answers her.

She hesitates and the rest of the guys look nervous that she isn’t happy. She takes the time to look a

t everyone in the room before she gives her trademark smile and agrees.

We move on. For the next two hours we talk about how to start up. Mike had decided to go a different route with us than he did with Knight’s Dream. He’s going straight to his contacts at the local stations. He wants Sayge back on stage at The Steamroom for two nights a week for the next month. He wants us to incorporate “Surviving” in the song sets and upload the four songs we recorded on our webpage.

He’s arranged a fair amount of studio time for us to record at least ten more songs and then we can choose what will go on the debut album. His plan is to release the album the middle of December.

“Mike, this seems like a great plan, but isn’t it a little rushed?” I ask looking at the timeline outlined in our binders.

“Yes, but we can do it. You guys have the sound and I want to be aggressive. There’s a chance I can get you to headline a few shows with Knight’s Dream when they are close. I want as much exposure as possible and this summer’s tour was a huge hit. I think with a ton of hard work, we will be scheduling another tour next summer. This is me and this is my vision. You guys have most of the control here if you’re not comfortable, let me know.”

I look at Nate, Blake, Cooper, and Jay and we silently agree this is doable. Then I look at Raven and she is smiling widely. She nods her head and gives me silent encouragement.

“Okay, let’s do it. But if at any time you think our heated deadline is compromising our work, we pull back. We haven’t worked this hard to fail because of greed.”

“I agree. I’ll work with Jay personally with your schedules. He’ll be a part of this every step of the way in case there are any hiccups.”

Jay nods in agreement.

“Two more things to discuss while we’re all together. First off, who’s going to manage your social media?”

No one says anything for a minute and then Raven and Kelly speak at the same time. “I’ll do it.”

All heads volley back and forth between the two women but there’s only one real choice, Raven.

“Obviously, I’m no expert, but I can take the Facebook page and Twitter. Maybe Kelly can take the website. We can coordinate each week with the actual data.” Raven responds in a sickly sweet tone and turns to stare at Kelly.

Kelly reluctantly agrees with an embarrassed look. She obviously doesn’t know anything about Raven and Sayge’s history.

“That’s fine. Any problems, y’all come to me. Secondly, how do you feel about Las Vegas?” Mike asks the room.

A huge smile crosses my face and I see the same expression on everyone in the room.

“Since Ryan’s group is doing so well, I arranged for them to have a small set at the iHeartRadio Music Festival next month. I want y’all there. If anything, I’m gonna try for you to sing one song. He’s already agreed to it. I can’t promise the reception, but since it’s such a huge event, this is an incredible chance. I’ll want Jay out a few days early, but will make arrangements to fly you in on Thursday. I can’t get you reservations at the MGM but we’ll get you close and have passes for you. What do you say?”

The room is silent and I’m internally trying to absorb everything. Nate lets out a loud cheer and the room goes crazy. Raven jumps over her seat and lands in my lap with a hug. Her face if full of happiness.

Once the guys calm down, Kelly gets our information for the airline tickets. Mike tells us he’s positive we won’t get individual rooms, so he’ll try for suites. I give Kelly my credit card information and tell her to make sure I have a private room; no matter what. Raven gives me a questioning glance.

“You don’t think we’re going to Vegas and sharing a room with these idiots do you?” I ask her.

“Dec, I can’t go to Vegas next month, I have school.”

“Yes, babe, you can and you will. I won’t go without you.”

Mike chuckles at my declaration and Kelly looks sick.

“Don’t be silly, you’re going.”

“Hate to point this out, Raven girl, but none of us are going without you. Better get your schedule together.” Nate shouts across the table.

“Y’all are ridiculous. I can’t go to Vegas. I have responsibilities here.”

We all stare at her saying nothing, letting her know we’re serious. These guys know how where I stand. I’ll do anything to have her by my side.