How do i break into the music industry?

[stressed out]

I have been singing from a young age, not publicly. And i have spent alot of time in recording studios where i write and sing my own lyrics to a pre recorded Melody and beat but the cds just sit there collecting dust and it never gets me anywhere. Now i've given up hope of progressing with my music career and after a failed attempt at Pop Idol 2 years ago, purely through nerves getting the better of me, my confidence has been knocked down quite a bit. Any advice from anyone?

[WoWo]

It depends what sort of music you like, but why not try forming a band. You would get support from the other members and it would be easier to get gigs etc. You could then get your confidence back.

[undercovers]

X factor?

[Insane Wally]

If you want to start off in pubs & clubs, try contacting an entertainment agency, someone like www.abbeyrhodes.com

[JohnTrevains]

Why dont you write a really good song with a catchy tune and inspiring lyrics?

[mikey172]

Hey, just get off your butt and do it. Nip along to a few karaoke nights, the 3 minutes of pain now and then will be really good for you and show if you can go further. Those songs you have recorded. Think about where you want to go musically and choose 3 or 4 tracks you think are your best in the type of music you want to perform. AT THIS POINT, MAKE A COPY OF YOUR SONGS. If they are not subject to copyright, the best thing to do is put them in an envelope along with a lyric sheet and dates recorded. Seal the envelope well and post it to either yourself or a solicitor - if you have one. This may sound daft, but ensure that the envelope (once it has been delivered through the post) remains sealed. The postmark will show that the songs were written by a certain date, should someone you send them to try to pass them off as their own. Once you have your envelope back and safely stored, send another copy to managers, agents, record labels etc. The most important thing is to get the songs and yourself heard. Also, to have more confidence in yourself. If you really want it, you can do it. Good luck.

[five5five]

firstly dont giv up that gets u nowhere...iv been in a girl band for 4 and a half years-started off cabaret in manchester then we met another manager n weve done gigs with girls aloud/big brovaz/mel c /dside/phixx n were doin a few dates supportin mcfly..it really is about gettin ur face n ur music out there. u never know who will be sitting in an audience or who ur goin 2 bump into that could help u. get out to up n coming artists gigs..go on the internet n find out about them, they happen in places like the living room (they have bars around the country-duno where your from)build up contacts-be friendly/chatty dont be afraid to ring up people.go on websites of record companies.u should send ur music out but only when u think it is the best it can be n ur image matches. put in a bit about yourself n make up a load of packs with ur pic/cd hope that helps...