Original subtitles

Um, sound check will go okay, because I feel a little hoarse.

You sounded great as always.

Security?

Totally secure.

And the crowd's totally raring to go?

They could not be more ready for you, Miss Taylor.

Let's do it.

How'd it

go?

Fit for a queen.

Or a California king.

Hey, you wanted to keep your chops up.

Not that far up.

Listen, you've been a real trooper with this, Deb.

But that's all behind us after today.

We meet with the label, get your advance, set up some tour dates, and you're back.

And not a moment too soon.

I just got my hotel bill for the month.

Okay.

We'll push for a bigger advance.

I'll see you soon.

Room service!

Oh.

Liam's in town.

Don't lecture me, Ray.

I know you don't like him.

I just don't like him for you.

Good thing you manage my career and not my social life.

Hey, I'm not just your manager.

I'm your work husband.

You know, one day I might have a real husband.

Oh, I'd like to see that.

Just not with him, all right?

Debbie.

Dylan.

Hey.

Nice to meet you.

I'm sorry to keep you waiting.

I've been meaning to meet with you sooner, but

things got a little crazy after I took over for Liam.

Hello.

This is Ray Royce.

Royce Management.

We spoke on the phone.

Nice to meet you.

Why don't you guys come out?

Come on in.

Have a seat.

Did somebody offer you something to drink?

Pellegrino?

Sparkling water?

Yeah, we're good.

Thank you.

Your last record was what?

Three?

Three years ago?

Two.

And I know sales dropped off a little bit, but this one will more than make up for it.

As you know, the industry's changed.

Things are all about a social media presence now.

Oh.

And here I thought it was about the music.

Listen.

There's really no easy way to say this, but after careful consideration,

we have decided to go another direction.

With the music?

With you.

I'm sorry?

How do I say this?

We're no longer in the Debbie Taylor business.

Are you dropping me?

I am.

I'm sorry.

Sorry.

I've been at this label since I was 15 years old.

Debbie Taylor started this label.

It wouldn't be here without her.

You wouldn't be here.

Well, I am now.

Look, maybe if you're willing to reconsider this sound, but until then,

Taylor Swift is relevant.

You're not.

Taylor Swift.

You used to be Taylor Swift.

We'll find another label.

In the meantime, we'll start exploring the other offers.

What other offers?

Okay, I know you said no more reality shows, but this one has no wild animals.

Ray.

Okay, okay, okay.

How do you feel about singing at a private birthday party?

Four figures.

High four figures?

Low, but a first last round trip.

To where?

Saudi Arabia.

Is that a no or a maybe?

If you're my work husband, I want a divorce.

So happy anniversary, right?

Two years.

Who would have thought?

Not me.

I got you something.

Me too.

Ta-da.

Thank you.

You first, you first.

Okay.

With all my love, always, Debby.

Aww.

Wow.

Wow.

That's a... That's a... It's amazing.

Had it custom designed.

It's beautiful.

You like it?

Yeah.

Okay, me next.

It's a selfie stick.

I see that.

Yeah.

I mean, that's kind of our thing, right?

We just keep it casual.

When we're together, it's fun.

When we're not, no pressure.

I mean, that's what I love about you, Deb.

That's what you love about me?

Look, I'm going back on location.

You're working on your album.

Let's not pretend like this was ever anything serious.

Let's not make a big deal out of this.

But it is a big deal.

At least I thought it was a big deal.

Hey, you know what?

I bet you can write a song about it.

I mean nothing to you.

Oh, it'll top the charts.

Debbie, Debbie, come on.

Keep your stick.

Deb.

Dee, come on.

Debbie Taylor.

Platinum albums, world tours, and international fame at 15 years old.

Whatever happened to Debbie Taylor?

It's open.

Thank you.

There she is.

I've been living like the party was never going to end, and guess what?

It did.

Hey, we've been in the trenches a long time.

We'll get through this.

Oh, I'm going to miss those pillow mints.

You know, maybe it's time to sell this.

No.

It'll keep you in the hotel a while.

Ray, I would rather live in my car.

Look, maybe you could stay with me for a while.

And for a while, you mean somewhere between one night and the rest of the week?

Well, as far as I know, that's my life.

If necessary.

Thanks, Ray, but I need a break.

I need to get out of this place.

I need some time.

How much time?

I don't know, enough time to get my head together.

I need to figure out who I am apart from who I was.

Honey, the worst thing you can do right now is disappear.

I'm already gone, Ray.

I'm already gone.

I'm already gone, Mary.

I promise.

I promise.

Debbie!

Hey!

What are you doing here?

Is something wrong?

Does something have to be wrong for me to visit my sister?

Yes.

I just had some free time, so I thought, vacay!

Vacay?

In Ohio?

With you and the fam!

Oh, I would have called first, but I wanted to surprise you.

And you did.

Wow, the place looks great!

Thank you.

So, where is everyone?

Tim is picking up Natalie from soccer.

And you're not working anymore?

No, I'm working.

School's generally closed on Sunday.

Yeah, right.

Of course.

So...

How long are you planning on staying?

Oh, just a few days.

Give or take.

The thing is...

our spare room is now an office, so maybe you might be more comfortable in a hotel?

Oh!

There they are!

Aunt Debbie!

Natalie, look at you!

All grown up!

I'm eleven and a half.

I can see the half.

Hey, Deb.

I thought that might be your car out there.

Hey, Tim.

Look at you!

All grown up, too.

So, are you touring out here or something?

No, she's vacaying.

No kidding.

That's great.

You could stay in my room.

I have bunk beds.

Rock, paper, scissors for the bottom bunk.

Oh, top bunk.

Cool!

Oh, sweetie, don't touch that.

It's very valuable.

No, it's okay.

It's meant to be played.

Can you teach me how to do my hair like yours?

No, she can't.

Your mom's right.

I can't.

I have a glam squad.

What's that?

People I pay to make me look fabulous.

So, Tim, are you still at the dealership?

Kick the tires.

Drive it off.

Ooh, catchy.

Did Denise tell you she got promoted to assistant principal?

Oh, no.

It's not a big deal.

Yes, it is.

To the new assistant principal of...

Youngstown High.

Youngstown High.

Youngstown High.

You know what?

I brought prezzies.

Okay.

For my niece.

A Debbie Taylor makeup kit and perfume.

She doesn't wear makeup yet.

No?

Well, she's only in the sixth grade.

My bad.

Just hang on to it till you're in the seventh grade.

Oh, and for my sister.

Oh, but really, you shouldn't have.

Open it.

A new pair of shoes can change your life.

Just ask Cinderella.

They're beautiful.

I wear mine all the time.

But don't worry, don't feel guilty.

They were swag.

Well, honey, I guess we'll just have to go out now, won't we?

Well, thank you.

Oh, and for my brother-in-law.

Try it on.

I, uh, custom designed that, so if there are a few extra links...

just have your jeweler fix it.

My jeweler?

Uh, sure.

Debbie, really, this is all too much.

Doc.

She's right.

We can't accept this.

You can, and you will.

Why is she even here?

Maybe she wants to be with her family.

No, that isn't it.

Oh, you don't know that.

Well, I know her.

Well, whatever it is, she's here now.

So maybe it's an opportunity for you two to get closer.

I suppose...

I can survive anything...

for a few days.

Right?

Do we have a jeweler?

A kid in my class has 5,500 Instagram followers, and all he did was eat a worm.

I'm not eating a worm.

You just have to chronicle your life.

I think I'll start by living my life.

What have you been doing all this time?

That's a good question.

You're like Alice.

Alice in Chains?

Alice in Wonderland.

She fell down the rabbit hole and everything was new.

So, the rabbit hole leads to Ohio?

Maybe.

You're an interesting kid.

What's her bedtime?

Uh, late.

You?

Late, too.

You know, your mom and I used to stay up so late every night talking.

In the summertime, when it got dark, we would

go out to the hood of Grandma and Grandpa's car.

And we would look up at the stars and talk and talk and talk.

So, you were BFFs?

The Delvecchio girls from Brooklyn.

I'm sure you've heard all the old stories.

Not really.

She never talks about you.

She doesn't?

Well, just about your shadow.

My shadow?

You know, the shadow she grew up in.

That's why she moved here and made a normal life.

So she could be herself and not just your sister.

Yeah.

Uh-oh.

Pretend you're asleep.

You have a very powerful aura.

It's a school night.

Sorry.

Goodnight.

Come on in.

Oh, hey!

Why aren't you working?

I've come back.

It's 3.30 p.m.

You've been here a week?

Wait, is that all?

Um, I've got a PTA meeting and I'm hoping you can help me out.

Oh, I would love to sing for the PTA.

What about lightning in a bottle?

Actually, I thought you could go to the market and pick up some food for dinner.

Um, butter, milk, pine... pineapple?

I'm making mom's... Mom's pineapple upside-down cake?

Yeah.

Yum!

Okay.

Oh, uh, hey, do you, uh, need some help there?

Yeah, um, do you know where they keep the pineapple?

Uh, canned or fresh?

Um, I'm not sure.

I would go with fresh.

And it's, uh, here, just a little...

easier with one cart.

Thank you.

Sure.

Uh, follow me.

We have fruit, vegetables, and...

voila, pineapple.

Perfect.

Mm-hmm.

Whoa!

Sorry.

So, now, these are oranges.

Yes, I know.

I've seen a picture of them once.

Ah, yeah.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Okay.

Are you taking a picture of me?

Sure.

What?

I don't mind posing for a selfie, but I really don't want some weird,

candid shot showing up on TMZ, okay?

Oh.

Uh...

Oatmeal.

It's, uh, for my mom.

Oh.

I wouldn't jur if this was the right brand, so... This is really embarrassing.

Yeah, for both of us.

I like that.

Hello?

Ray, I've changed my mind.

I'm ready to go to Saudi Arabia.

Deb, it's off the table.

You got someone else.

Who?

Tiffany.

Oh.

Listen, can I call you back?

Who is that?

Is that an appliance or something?

Hey, I'm working here.

Call me in a couple of days, okay?

You look good.

I can't do normal things.

I can't do anything.

I can't even write my music anymore.

This isn't just a vacay, is it?

My label dropped me.

Oh.

Debbie, so you're living here now?

No, I wouldn't... I wouldn't call it living exactly.

I'm tapped out.

How did that happen?

I was expecting in advance for the next album.

There's always been a next album, you know?

Apparently I've been spending money I didn't know that I didn't have.

It's okay.

I'll get my things.

I'll be gone.

No, you won't.

You may be a royal pain, but you're still my sister.

Thank you.

Thank you.

I'll do my own laundry.

I'll get up earlier.

Yes, you will.

Because you'll be working.

What?

The after-school music teacher had to leave

unexpectedly so you can fill in for the end of term.

I don't know anything about kids.

They're teenagers.

Nobody does.

How long is the term?

Till the end of school.

But that's like a month.

Three months.

Come on.

Come on.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh.

Think of this as your make under.

Oh.

So you're my anti-glam squat.

Just promise me you'll stop before you turn me into Betty Crocker.

Okay.

Betty Crocker is not even a real person.

Besides, you need to fit in.

Don't people know that I'm your sister?

I don't really talk about it.

It's just easier.

I get it.

And you might want to think about going by your real name.

Debbie Dalvecchio from...

From... Brooklyn.

Really?

Looks like I'm in your shadow now.

Classes from three till four.

If you find yourself running over, they'll need permission slips.

I don't anticipate that being a problem.

Well, there you go.

Okay.

Wait.

Aren't...

Aren't you going to introduce me?

Most of the teachers just introduce themselves.

Oh, come on.

You cannot be nervous.

You played Madison Square Garden.

Yeah.

This is far more intimidating.

All right, everyone.

In your seats, please.

Ladies and gentlemen, this is your new music teacher, Miss Dalvecchio.

Hello, Youngstown.

It's good to be back.

Yeah.

Okay.

I can see I need to warm up the crowd.

That's okay.

First of all, call me Miss Debbie.

Miss Dalvecchio was my mom.

And it is because of her that I am where I am today.

So, thank you, Mom.

Yes.

I'm Ashley, and I'm here for extra credit.

I'm on the honors track, and I'm going to an... An Ivy League.

Hey, all over.

Yeah.

Ooh.

Where did you study?

I studied.

In a series of bars, clubs, bowling alleys, and an occasional mattress store.

Okay.

Yes, the young man in the cheap seats.

Johnny, are you staying the whole term?

Because our last two teachers left us to get real jobs.

Oh, no, no, no.

I can assure you I won't be leaving to go get a

real job because this is the only job I've ever had.

You've never had a job?

That's awesome.

So, you're not a real teacher?

Well, I...

You're supposed to be getting us ready for the prom.

The prom?

We're performing, and we need to pick a song.

And it has to be perfect, or else everyone will laugh at us.

Okay.

Oh!

Okay.

I'm thinking power anthem.

The Stones.

Journey.

Varner.

Zeppelin.

You guys with me?

You feeling it?

You ever heard of them?

Those...

What are they teaching you in this place?

Wait.

I'll...

I will demonstrate.

Okay.

One, two, three, four.

Goodness.

Hey.

Hey.

What are you doing here?

Oh, well, I am the guidance counselor.

Of course you are.

Because this just keeps getting better.

What's this?

It's what I give all my emotionally challenged students.

Stress hormones in high school?

Not helping.

All right.

Look, look.

I think we got off on the wrong foot.

I'm pretty sure we're still on that foot.

Noah Burns.

Debbie Del Vecchio.

Identity crisis?

Because I have a pamphlet for that, too.

How'd your mother like the oatmeal?

Oh, yeah.

She didn't.

It was the wrong brand.

Ooh.

Back to the cereal aisle for you.

Yeah.

You know...

First day at school is always the worst.

Yeah, well, what about the second day?

Uh, second day, well, usually that is pretty bad, too.

Great.

Look, this class, it's really important to them.

Johnny, he's in the foster system.

You know, he's been bounced around a lot.

Music is the one consistent thing he has.

The truth is, they're all there because they love music.

They just need a way to express it.

Okay.

Them and me both.

You know, if you do want to talk, my office is down the hall.

Thank you, but the only guidance I need right now is how to get to the park.

Got it.

Got it, got it.

Down the hall.

Turn right at the lockers.

Left at the water fountain.

Okay.

Okay.

Hey!

What are you two up to?

Aunt Debbie bombed.

Well.

I mean, you've been booed off stage before.

No, I haven't.

I guess we could just add teacher to the list of things that I'm not good at.

No, that is not true.

You taught me how to play the tambourine.

You still have that?

Course I do.

Keeping it around in case...

Motown makes a comeback.

That was really good.

Uh, I think you mean terrible.

Now listen.

You want to connect with those kids?

You just make them feel what you feel when you're singing.

Yeah, come on you two.

Help me ruin some dinner.

Oh, hi.

Hi.

Johnny, right?

Yeah.

What are you playing?

Oh, have a seat, have a seat.

Uh, it's a new song that I've been working on for a while.

Uh, a long while.

What's it called?

Uh, I'm thinking Wonderland.

Wonderland, okay.

Mm-hmm.

Yeah.

Okay, I couldn't have said that better myself, and I didn't.

Well, thank you.

Hey, thank you.

All right, it's that time.

All right, everybody, take your seats, settle down.

Welcome back.

It's okay.

I know that yesterday I tanked.

I speak better through music.

Music can say what words can't.

When I was your age, I had all these

thoughts and feelings that I couldn't convey.

And then I found music.

Or should I say, music found me.

You know what's so cool about music?

It never goes out of style.

It never goes through an awkward phase.

No braces, no glasses, no bad hair days.

And when someone breaks your heart one day, not that I know anything about that,

that music, those songs, will be there for you.

The soundtrack of your life.

Okay, on your feet, on your feet.

I want to hear what you got.

Okay, so bring it.

Star Spangled Banner, C sharp.

Nice.

Wow.

But lose the hand gestures, Mariah.

We need direct contrast.

Posture.

Stand up straight.

Yes.

Okay, project.

Project.

Can you hear it?

Who's broad stripes and bright stars through the perilous fight?

Shoulders back.

Up and out.

Yes.

Yes, yes.

I can't hear you, Johnny.

Well, I don't sing.

Ever?

Just the piano, man.

Okay.

All right.

And that's all I need to hear for today.

We'll save the high note for next class.

Have a seat.

Have a seat, you guys.

Now a song can come out of anything.

It's not just the music and the lyrics.

It's the beats.

The guy who makes the beats.

A-bo-itch.

A-bo-a-bo-itch.

Not that I'm getting hired to do that any time soon.

But that guy, he's a writer.

Oh, the girl who's delivering the coffee and passes the mic going, yeah.

Yeah, yeah, yeah.

She's a writer.

Both contributed something to the song to give it its sound.

So arrangement, production, these are all key elements in creating a hit song.

So maybe you don't want to be out front.

Like this little star over here.

Maybe you find you're good at another part of the process.

And you become the next Quincy Jones.

The next Pharrell.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Right?

Hey.

Wasn't sure you were coming back.

Well, it turns out you were wrong.

The second day is better than the first.

Well, hey, there you go.

And my work here is done.

How to speak to your family.

What will I be when I grow up?

How is it that all these apply to me?

So my work here is not done.

Oh, how'd your mother like the oatmeal?

Oh, yeah.

So I'm narrowing down to steel cut or cream of wheat.

Hmm, let me know how that goes.

And in case you're wondering, I don't live with my mom.

It's okay if you do.

You know, I was just, you know, picking her up a few things.

Okay, okay.

Okay.

Okay.

Wow, these are amazing.

Really amazing.

Who is the photographer?

Hey, some amateur hack.

Ah, ha, ha, ha.

Old school.

Yep, I'm an old school guy.

So, look, in case I didn't mention it before, thank you

for taking time out of your life to help these kids.

Yes?

I thought you looked familiar on aisle two, but, uh, playing piano backwards yesterday?

Yeah, that pretty much sealed it.

I'm guessing you want to keep this quiet, what,

with the hair and the clothes and the name change?

No, Delvecchio is actually my real name.

Wait, okay, so who is Taylor?

Taylor's Burgers in Brooklyn.

My sister and I used to hang out there all the time.

Wow, well, hey, it's a good thing you didn't hang out at Der Wienerschnitzel.

Ha, ha, ha.

All right, all right, all right.

So, as long as we are opening up the old playbook

here, I danced to your music at my high school prom.

I actually didn't go to my high school prom.

Wait, wait, wait, don't tell me no one asked you.

Yeah, that, and, uh, I didn't go to high school.

Well, now's your chance.

For the first time in my new life, it's all all right.

Stage presence, you guys.

It's a performance, not a police lineup.

You guys have to own the stage.

C-3PO, relax.

And not that relaxed.

Um, I don't know, it's kind of like a stance, like...

Yeah.

Yeah!

Oh, thanks a lot, I asked for that one.

All right, you guys, that's it for today.

Bye.

See you tomorrow.

Don't forget to practice.

See you guys.

Oh, hey, Casey.

You have got such great style.

Do you mind coming up with a look for the group?

Uh, yeah, of course.

All right.

All right.

Daryl, um, how are you with lights?

I've got Megalight, Elation, and Blizzard Probes.

I don't know what any of those are, but sounds good to me.

All right, cool.

Hey, Ashley, check it out.

Thank you.

I'll text you.

Yes, please.

Hey, hey, hey.

How would you like to be the DJ for our group?

Me?

Yeah, you.

I can do that.

Okay.

You're singing like I'm grading you.

Newsflash, I'm not.

I should just quit.

My mom doesn't want me doing this anyways.

Wait, wait, wait.

Singing's about joy.

It's about freedom.

If you let the emotion flow, your voice will follow.

And while you're at it, let it pass your heart on the way up, okay?

Okay.

All right, now get out of here.

Hey.

Hey.

So, uh, you know, Billy Joel was a classical pianist, and he started singing

just to write his songs, and it turned out he was really good.

Yeah, that's not true.

That's not me.

Oh, yeah, yeah.

You don't sing, right.

Mm-hmm.

You know, my old foster mom used to play Billy Joel.

It was a long time ago, though.

You don't see her anymore?

No.

She moved.

I live in a group home now, and I'm 18 in a few months.

Then I'm out.

Then what happens?

I don't know.

I have a weekend job at a hardware store, and I'm trying to get full time.

Yeah, I've been on the road since pretty much my whole life.

Or I hold up writing.

Can you believe I actually missed my sister's wedding?

Because I was on tour.

I missed my niece being born.

I sent stuff instead of showing up.

The only real relationship I've had is with my manager.

Come to think of it, he's on commission.

Thank you.

Yes, of course.

Oh, and I thought I had a boyfriend, but that's only because I wasn't around

enough to realize that I meant absolutely nothing to him.

He got me a selfie stick.

Oh.

Not that anyone in their right mind should get involved with me.

Duly noted.

Yeah.

Wow, I've been talking a lot.

How long have I been talking?

Oh, yeah, it's okay.

I'm here until June.

And maybe you're being too hard on yourself.

I mean, I don't see any other pop stars working with kids in Ohio.

Yeah, about that.

That wasn't really my idea.

We do have patient guidance counts of privilege, right?

Generally not.

But I promise I won't tell your parents.

You know, I came here to, you know, hide out and play.

Plan my big comeback.

But what if there is no coming back?

Well, there's always a way back.

What if I peaked at 15?

Or maybe you haven't peaked yet.

You know, it's kind of late for this pep talk.

Like, like 20 years.

All right, you know, I, uh...

You know what I did before I was your counselor?

A commodities trader in Chicago.

I had the high rise on Michigan Avenue.

Toys, expense account.

Uh, and a wife, too.

And also a trader.

What happened?

She loved the life.

I didn't.

And it turned out she also loved someone else.

My partner.

Ooh, sorry.

Ah, thanks.

Wasn't the best of times, but it worked out.

And, uh, this, this is you?

Crummy office, no view, cold coffee.

This is me.

No!

No, I feel like I'm making a difference here.

And it's where I grew up.

You know, today you're a music teacher.

Tomorrow, who knows?

My guess is you'll be back on stage, and this'll all be a distant memory.

Yeah, I think I'll remember this.

Trust me.

Hmm.

I guess the, uh, question is, are you trying to find your next hit, or yourself?

Wow, you're good.

Yeah.

Actually, that just came to me.

Oh, yeah.

Whoop.

I'm afraid your time is up.

My next appointment is waiting.

Well, thank you very much.

And I would say it seems we're making progress, don't you think?

Hello.

Hello.

Nice to see you taking advantage of our guidance program.

He's helping me with a few issues.

Yes, he is very helpful.

And cute.

I hadn't noticed.

And there's nothing going on.

Right.

Well, that is too bad, because he is the exact opposite of your usual type,

which is awful, by the way.

Thanks a lot.

Oh, come on.

Don't you remember your first boyfriend?

The vinyl pants?

Oh!

Oh, and there was the one with the blue hair who drove over Mom's flowers.

That was a scene.

Should I keep going?

Please don't.

And what about you?

What about your first boyfriend?

Yes, I married him.

Tim's your first boyfriend?

Yeah.

First one that mattered.

So how much did it cost to fix your car?

Don't ask.

Hey, listen, do you have a shopping list?

I'm going to the market.

I'm making dinner for Natalie tonight.

Well, Natalie's making dinner for me tonight.

And you and your first boyfriend are going out.

That is not necessary.

It is.

And it's all been arranged.

All right.

I'll text you a list.

All righty.

Oh, it's a work of art.

We have to Instagram this.

Can we eat it first?

If you want to get your following up, people love seeing photos of food.

Or cats.

Why?

No one knows.

Selfie!

Wow.

Wow.

Mom, you look fierce.

She does, doesn't she?

And tall.

Stay up past curfew.

We won't wait up.

Ray, hold on.

Hey.

What?

Why are you whispering?

I was asleep.

Asleep?

It's 9.30.

Ray, it's a school night.

Now you're starting to worry me.

You haven't called me in a week.

I've been busy.

I cooked dinner.

Oh, I totally mastered the art of laundry.

And I'm driving the carpool tomorrow.

How exciting is that?

Did I call the wrong number?

Hey, I'm experiencing life.

Because it's good for your music?

Oh, yeah.

That too.

Well, send me your new stuff.

All right.

I will.

I will.

When?

I don't know.

After the prom.

I don't know when a sentence has ever disturbed me more.

Good night, Ray.

That was seriously good for a guy who doesn't sing.

Did you write that yourself?

Yeah, I did.

Listen, what you have is curable.

It's called stage fright.

I once performed at a party, and I froze completely.

That feeling, it's also what makes it so exciting.

I just feel better in the background, you know?

I know.

But when you're ready to push past that feeling,

I promise you, something magical awaits.

Hey guys.

Hey, Miss Ne.

Hey, Miss Ne.

Hey, hey.

Oliver, what's going on?

My first track.

Ooh, let me hear it.

Awesome.

Keep it going.

Keep it going.

All right guys, before we start class, I realized

we have to come up with a name for the group.

Any ideas?

How about...

The Above Average Singers.

Any other ideas?

After School Music Program?

There's something there.

Maybe... A-M-P.

A-M-P.

A-M-P.

See?

After School Music Program, AMP.

That's it.

Bring it in, guys.

Bring it in.

Alright.

Two, three, four, AMP.

Shine brightly, you guys.

Take your seats, guys.

Take your seats.

Oh, one sec, one sec.

Be right back.

Hey, what's up?

I just met with the principal.

He's canceling the class.

What?

Why?

He thinks it's too expensive.

I've been juggling funds to keep it going.

Ultimately, he thinks there's not enough kids to justify the expense.

I'm really sorry.

I shouldn't have pushed you into this.

No, no, you should have.

Can I have till, um, at least the end of the week?

Please tell me it's not Thursday.

It's Wednesday.

I heard.

I'm gonna need something stronger.

Okay.

Last month, I was ready to quit.

Now I feel awful.

I was just making a breakthrough.

I can't leave them.

Hmm.

Then don't.

I won't.

Oh.

Maybe this is my comeback.

Okay, so, um, this is a limited edition.

Here.

They only made 20.

And it was given to me personally by Billy Joel

when I performed with him at Madison Square Garden.

These are the signatures of all the top acts in the country.

I'll give you five grand.

No, no, no, no.

It's worth, like, 20 times that amount.

Not to me.

I promise I'd never sell this.

Okay, okay, um...

I will let it go for ten.

Eight is as high as I'll go.

I'll take it.

Hey, Deb.

Hey.

What's up?

Listen.

I have a favor to ask you.

All right.

Am I supposed to, uh, kick the tires or something?

I wouldn't.

Meet me in the parking lot.

Hey, you guys.

There's been a change of venue.

Come on, hop in.

Come on, uh... Come on in, you guys.

Come in.

What is this?

You'll see.

Keep it moving, keep it moving.

Come on.

Welcome to...

AMP Studios.

Wow.

This is yours?

Ours.

Bring it in, you guys.

We are gonna rock that prom.

So, what are we doing here?

There's something you need to see.

There's her van.

Um, what do you mean, our?

Dad gave her a good deal.

Insurance and permission slip signed by all the parents.

And yes, electronic signatures are authorized by the school board.

Who are you?

The group manager.

Come on.

Well, what do you think?

Who's paying for all this?

Billy Joel?

You sold your keyboard?

Yeah.

Hey!

You missed your appointment today.

Had to give your time away to a sophomore.

Wow, this guidance counselor thing is really full service.

Yeah, well, one can never get enough guidance.

In my case, that is.

That actually happens to be true.

So, are you hungry?

Yes, I was on my way to the market and... How can I turn that down?

Uh, you can't.

Okay, so produce, then cereal...

Yeah, followed by frozen foods, deli counter, and wine and spirits.

Oh.

Oh, let's get some oatmeal for your mom.

No, she's removed me from shopping detail, so...

I'm getting her some anyway.

All right, all right, but you gotta hop on.

Hop on.

Yeah, yeah, here we go.

Oh!

You're gonna get a ride.

I like this marketing thing.

Exactly, plus you get to eat afterwards, right?

Whee!

Woo-hoo!

Lovely night.

Look at this.

Candlelight, a view of the parking lot.

Oh, wait, wait, wait, wait.

What, what, what?

This.

Oh.

Ha, ha, ha, ha.

And...

The cheap romance.

The cheap romance continues.

You shouldn't have.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh.

I was hoping for the plastic tiara.

No, I love this.

I am gonna wear it.

At least until it breaks.

Okay, now that is good quality plastic, so it could go five minutes.

Well, here's to the next five minutes.

May it feel like six.

Ha, ha, ha.

Okay, yeah, yes, come on.

Your kids are, your kids are lucky to have you.

I'm pretty sure I'm the lucky one.

They remind me of someone I used to know.

Who's that?

Me.

Here we are.

Oh, you're pineapple.

Thank you.

Mm-hmm.

So, no, I will get this clasp fixed on this... Yes, please.

...expensive watch here.

Ah!

I had a really good time.

Yeah, me too, me too.

We should do it again.

Tomorrow night?

Salad bar, aisle nine?

I was thinking prom night at the gym.

Um, are you asking me to the prom?

As friends.

I'm chaperoning.

Friends?

Of course.

You said no one in their right mind should get involved with you, so...

And you've listened to everybody on your couch.

Always.

I should tell you that my first prom was awful.

And, uh, oh, I'm a really bad dancer.

Oh, come on, how bad?

My date left with someone else.

Oh, now I'm gonna have to say yes.

Uh, that was the plan.

Oh.

Good night, then.

Good night.

Oh, wow.

I really am in high school.

What happened?

Well...

I'm going to the prom.

We're just friends.

Long talks, dinners at the market.

That's how it starts.

Oh.

What?

Debbie?

What are you up to?

Thank you.

Okay.

So... Do either one of these say...

prom?

Uh, no and no.

Those are more me than you.

I've been trying to fit in and I can't even get that right.

Where's my glam squad?

I am your new glam squad.

I know this was supposed to be a surprise.

What?

All right.

Oh, this is gorgeous.

It's so me.

Thank you.

But, um... What are you going to wear?

I'm a chaperone.

It doesn't matter.

Doesn't matter?

Chaperones are allowed to have a glamorous night out.

Two.

Oh.

You are crazy.

And you love it.

Oh.

Oh.

Oh my god.

Oh, what's this?

A bar?

Yeah.

I'm a bar.

I'm a bar.

That's me.

I love it.

Oh, that's me.

Yeah.

You're a bar?

Yeah.

I know.

It's wonderful and I'm shining so bright For the first

time in my new life It's all, all right Wonderland tonight

Wonderland tonight Yes!

Yes, you guys, that was so good.

So good, you guys.

Yeah!

Yeah!

Good job, Albert.

That was so much fun.

How was that?

How did it feel?

How good we did.

Amazing.

I can't wait to perform.

Thank you, Misty.

You got it.

You got it.

Hey there.

Oh, hey.

Hi.

Hi.

Mr. Burns is here, everybody, to take a few pictures.

Yes.

Just ignore me.

We always do.

Yeah, it's very funny, very, yeah, it's very funny.

Oliver, stop by my office later.

I will give you an application to clown school.

Oh!

Okay.

Okay, you guys, gather round.

Got you.

Give me a...

Nice.

I didn't know anyone had the darkroom anymore.

Oh, well, when I bought the place, it was actually a sewing room,

and I kind of gave up on that, so... That's too bad.

I was going to ask you to hand my prom dress.

Ooh, you got a prom dress.

Guilty.

Wait, what color?

Why do you want to know?

So I can get you a corsage.

Oh.

Well, in that case, royal blue.

Well, Your Majesty, a royal blue corsage, then.

On its way.

Cool.

They look so happy.

Yeah.

So do you.

Turns out I am.

Mm-hmm.

You're in Youngstown.

In a converted sewing room.

Your career is certainly on an interesting trajectory.

Let's hope so.

Where's all your stuff?

Storage.

Hmm.

And you never wanted a place to call home?

No, no, I did.

Long ago.

Oh.

But it was never the right time or the right place, and so here I am, just, uh.

Waiting to get back into your life.

Yeah.

That was the plan.

Mm-hmm.

Well, sometimes life is what happens when you're making plans, right?

Yeah.

Yeah.

I wonder now if that picture I had out there is actually the life I'm meant to be

living, and I don't know if it's what I want anymore.

Hmm.

Hmm.

Come on.

Let's, uh...

Let's take a walk.

I'll show you, uh, how the non-New Yorkers live.

Quietly.

Very quietly.

Well, I... Just differently.

Just sit here.

I know.

I was... What's going on?

I was helping my mom clean out the basement.

Look at this.

It's Misty.

Beautiful.

I can't believe it.

I know.

Wait, here she is.

Debbie Taylor.

The youngest person ever to write and perform a number one single.

She was our age.

What's she doing teaching us?

Oh no, the kiss of death.

Debbie Taylor, where are they now?

Alright you guys, let's run it from the top.

Misty, when did you start writing music?

Probably when I was a little bit younger than you guys, actually.

Before we start rehearsal, can you sing us one of your songs?

You don't want to hear that.

Please, please.

Okay.

What should I sing?

Oh, well I'll do the first one.

First one I wrote, and I'm used to doing it as an upbeat

dance song, but I guess I'm about to try something new.

Every time I'm telling secrets I remember how it used to be And I realize how much I

miss you And how it feels to be free I see

I'm up to no good And I want to start again.

Can't remember when I felt good, baby I can't remember when

No, only in my dreams As real as it may seem It was only in my dreams It's so good.

Perfect.

You did it.

Smile for Instagram.

I'll get the plates.

Cody's plates.

You're right.

Who does?

Huh, it's Ashley.

She missed two college prep sessions, and now I find out she's been hanging out

in some studio.

I'm sorry, Mrs. Vance, but didn't you sign a permission slip?

No, and I wouldn't.

Clearly there's been a misunderstanding, and I will get to the bottom of it.

I signed it.

And just how do you expect to get into an Ivy

League school, wasting all your time singing?

Mrs. Vance, if you could just hear her, and hear the passion that she sings with,

you would know it's not a waste of time.

She's really good.

She may look up to you, but you're hardly a role model, are you?

And you're exactly why I won't let her pin her hopes on music.

A couple of hits that no one remembers, and look where you are now.

Mom!

Ashley, it's okay.

She's right.

No, she's not.

In fact, I can't think of a better role model.

She followed her dream.

She never gave up.

She's performed in front of 18,000 people, holding lit candles at Madison Square

Garden, and she will be back there again one day.

And what are you, her publicist?

No.

I'm her sister.

Keep singing.

You have a wonderful voice.

When was the last time we did this?

When we were Natalie's age.

You know, I never really got to tell you I'm sorry.

For what?

For ruining your childhood.

Mom was always so focused on her.

You were practically raised by housekeepers.

I never blamed you for that.

I mean, you were just doing what you love.

Maybe I was envious of the attention, but that wasn't your fault.

You always included me.

Do you remember that time you asked me to play tambourine in your session?

Even though you knew I had absolutely no rhythm.

None whatsoever.

You know, I always envied your life, too.

You did?

Yeah.

What you have with Tim and Natalie is amazing.

You've built a really great life for yourself, Denise.

You made a pretty great life, too.

Yeah.

Yeah, but I never put down roots.

So, I have no one to come home to.

Now you do.

Can we just forget about the last 10, 15 years?

Let's make it 20.

Why am I seeing this online instead of from her?

You dropped her, remember?

Who wrote this?

She did.

This.

I love this.

The simplicity.

It's fresh.

It's new.

I think we just got back in the Debbie Taylor business.

Wake up.

What is it?

Your Instagram is blowing up.

Look at your followers.

Can you believe how many?

Is that more than the kid who ate the worm?

Like a zillion more.

You officially have social media presence.

And yet, I feel no different.

Let's just check your Twitter.

No.

Let's get you ready for school.

You sound like my mom.

Thank you.

You really do.

Does that mean I get to drive carpool?

Can we take the van?

Anything to get you moving.

Come on.

Are you guys ready to rock this prom?

Yes.

Yeah?

Yeah, that's right.

Bring it in.

Bring it in.

Two, three, four.

Yeah!

Woo-hoo!

All right.

Get some rest, you guys.

You're going to need it.

All right?

Big day ahead.

You got it.

You got it.

You got it.

Hey.

Hey.

Well done.

What you got there?

For you.

Oh.

This is the best gift I've ever gotten.

Oh, well, that's hard to believe.

It's true.

Oh.

Ah-ha-ha.

Ah, is that background music?

Come on.

You really don't dance?

Ah.

Does the chicken dance count?

No.

Okay.

Then I don't dance.

Oh, boy.

Here we go.

Okay.

Okay.

Wait.

Aren't I supposed to lead?

Minor technicality.

Don't look at the door.

Don't look at your feet.

Well, what should I look at?

Me.

Well, I can do that.

I confess when I look in your eyes There can never be nobody else That's no lie So

I give my love to you Baby, yeah And I hold on to you Okay, I can't, uh...

What else can I do?

This isn't working for me.

No, no.

You're doing great.

This friends thing.

It's just I know I said I wanted to be friends, but I don't.

Okay.

I wasn't supposed to get involved here because you're

Debbie Taylor and you're just passing through, but...

Truth is, I am involved with that Delvecchio girl

and I'm pretty sure she's just passing through, too.

I'm still wearing a plastic watch.

Yeah.

I'm wearing my heart on my sleeve.

I don't want to be friends, either.

You don't?

Mm.

So I give my love to you Baby, yeah Here she is.

You left your phone.

I thought you left me.

I've been calling all day.

What are you guys doing here?

I'm bringing you home.

Wow.

Wow.

I can't believe they did this.

I didn't even think they knew who I was.

Sweetie, everyone is going to know who you are now.

Dylan loves it.

The label wants to re-sign.

He's agreed to your advance plus a signing bonus.

Oh, congratulations.

That is fantastic.

Way to go, sis.

You did it, Demi.

Okay, I hate to break up this love fest here, but I am the work husband.

And she needs to get packed ASAP.

Packed?

The label is flying us back.

They want you in New York tonight.

You are presenting at the Manhattan Spirit Music Awards tomorrow.

No, no, no.

Tomorrow's the prom.

Demi, come on.

This is big.

Ray, I can't just up and leave.

I'll tell the kids.

And I'll fill in for you backstage.

Yeah, yeah, I will too.

After all, I won't be dancing.

Yeah, come on.

I know I'm supposed to feel happier about all this.

You will.

Once you see those pillow mints.

I'm sorry, Noah.

You were always going to leave.

I knew that.

I really saw it then.

Me too.

But we will always have the market, right?

You were the best relationship I never had.

Likewise.

When I was a little bit older than you, I went to go see my very first concert.

And your Aunt Debbie got me a backstage pass.

And I went to go see her sing.

And every person in the audience was singing with her, holding a candle.

It was like a sea of lights.

Can I hear another story?

Oh, tomorrow night, okay?

It's very late.

I miss her.

Me too, sweetie.

Me too.

Welcome to the Manhattan Spirit Music Awards.

Would all presenters please check in?

Hey.

Hey, you.

Hey, hi.

Deb.

Liam.

Hey.

Hey.

I heard you were presenting.

Yeah, yeah.

Me too.

Yeah, they got me promoting this new film.

Between you and me, it's not my best work.

You look great.

Thank you.

So do you.

Thank you.

You know, I miss you.

I miss what we had.

What did we have?

We had our thing.

You know?

Yeah, our thing.

Listen, you want to catch a platter for a drink?

No, I don't think so.

I'll call you.

Okay.

All right.

Hello, Liam.

Ooh.

Not him again.

No, not him.

Good.

Today, red carpet at three, seating at four, awards

at five, followed by three post-award parties.

And tomorrow you do the morning shows.

You meet with the label.

We get a little advance and... Uh huh... And you're back.

Debbie.

It's great to see you.

Hello.

I love the new song.

When did you write that?

When I was 13.

Right.

Well, I always knew you had it in you.

Thank you.

You know, you never would have heard it if it weren't for my kids.

I didn't know you had kids.

Eight of them.

Octomom, good for you.

I think you'll like the numbers.

I've decided to go in a different direction.

I'm sorry?

I'm not signing.

What do you mean?

You're turning us down?

You can't say no to us.

Who do you think you are?

She's Debbie Taylor.

And when you're out of a job, and someone with taste

takes your place, she'll still be Debbie Taylor.

I'm sorry, Ray.

I couldn't do it.

I mean, why can't I do this on my terms now?

Have an actual life?

Make music?

Mentor these kids?

Tour on summer breaks?

And maybe even help one very little girl or a very talented kid break my record.

You know what I'm thinking?

Of course I do.

I'm your work husband.

I bet you can still make it.

It's

hard just to survive Never had the chance to feel alive Doing what we could to make

it through And it took half of me and you We helped causes and crimes And then we

found the stars Ashley, it's so great your mom let you come.

Yeah.

Okay, it's almost showtime.

Just go out there and have fun.

Yeah.

I can't believe we're actually doing this without Ms. D.

Yeah.

Yeah.

We can do this, right?

We can do this.

And you know what she always said?

Shine brightly.

Bring it in.

Two, three, four.

Go!

Woo!

Do it!

You guys are going to be great.

Hey, everyone.

Please put your hands together for Amp, who will be performing Wonderland.

Thanks.

But we're going to be playing a different song for someone we wish were here tonight.

We hope you like it.

Every time I'm telling secrets I remember how it used to be And I realize how much I

miss you And I realize how it feels to be free Now I see I'm up to no good And I

won't start again Can't remember when I felt good,

baby I can't remember when What are you doing here?

Still need a date for the prom.

Well, actually, my last one did run out on me.

She must have been out of her mind.

As real as it may seem It was only in my dreams

No, no, no, no Only in my dreams As real as it may seem It was only in my dreams

What are

these girls doing?

Hey, everybody, it's Debbie Taylor!

Fallin' and fallin' into the holy Ooh, tryin' to quiet the noise Let's go on and

drop everything And take in all that this day brings

Wonderland tonight Shining my life It's wonderful and I'm Shining so bright The

first time in my new life It's all alright Wanderlust night

Wanderlust night

Some people want to bring you down Cause their way of getting high is to push you

to the ground Some people hide behind how their actions speak so loud But the words

are meant to hurt somehow, and some days I just want to disappear.

Hey!

You found you guys?

Ray called and don't forget your 3.30.

Do your homework.

Autograph?

Hall pass.

Are you coming for dinner?

It's Taco Tuesday, isn't it?

So, where were we?