Have you always had a passion for popular music? Have you been told that you could be the next singing sensation sweeping the nation? Have you prayed desperately day and night that your dreams of having a number one hit single would someday come true? If so, you are like thousands of semi-talented North Americans who share this dream, but are unable to make it happen because they don’t know where to start. This is quite possibly due to the many misconceptions held by the general public. These may include, “To have a number one hit single, you have to have an excellent vocal range, and be able to hit high and low notes.”, or perhaps, “You need a perfect body to be up there.” This is simply not true! As long as you have a ‘can do’ attitude, and follow the steps out-lined, you are sure to be propelled into super-stardom!!

  Once you have determined the “what” and the “who”, destroy any hope of actually making that type of song or reaching that type of audience as it is of no concern to the modern-day music executive. Instead, focus on ‘getting your foot in the door’ of a major record label. The phonebook is your best resource for finding the best record labels. Usually, one word names like “Sony” or “Virgin” work best for this type of project.

  When you have located a name you immediately recognize, call the record company and ask to make an appointment with an A and R (Artist Relations) person. Due to their busy schedules, this may require several phone calls, but be persistent - finding out the names, home addresses, and phone numbers of these people can be a usefulmethod of persuasion. Once you have convinced these people that you have what it Takes, set up a friendly meeting at a restaurant or bar to discuss your future career in the music business.

  When preparing for your A and R meeting, it is wise to alter your appearance to fit the celebrity norm. First, dye your hair blonde. If it is already blonde, dye it again. You can never be too blonde, but you can certainly be not blonde enough. Even if you do not have an hourglass figure or a perfect nose, play up your good qualities and always remember, plastic surgery is readily available. Also, learn these simple, yet effective phrases that will assist you in your negotiations; “I can be whatever you want me to be.” or, “I have a clear vision of what you want to accomplish.” But most importantly, “I’ve never even heard the term ‘creative control’.” Practise these at home in front of the mirror and look as shallow as you possibly can.

  If you arrive early, take some time to practise pitching them their own ideas. Do not consume any alcohol prior to meeting an A and R person -- unless you think it will make you seem like the “bad boy” of a potential boy band because, as we all know, rehab makes headlines! Otherwise, alcohol consumption can be detrimental to your career.

  A good way to get an offer for a recording contract is to kiss the A and R person’s ass.When they present you with a contract, DO NOT read it as it tends to make these people nervous. Instead, promptly sign the contract (this is excellent practise for autographing memorabilia in the future).

  Don’t bother writing your own songs. This may insult the record label as they have already implemented a successful song-writing formula to make the most money. Suggest (if it has not already been arranged) a collaboration with an artist who has already had success in the music business. When interviewed later, tell your interviewer that this person had a major influence on your aspiration to become a singer and recite many of their famous works.

  When your single is climbing the charts, be sure to abdicate several rumours about yourself involving other celebrities. This creates a “buzz” and for some reason makes people want to hear you song. This can be best achieved through a marriage, pregnancy, or equally scandalous behaviour that should always generate a response Of “no comment.“

  Upon reaching number one, forget all the people who helped you get there and become exceedingly self-involved. This will ensure future success with other record labels.

  Becoming a superstar is only one of the perks of having a hit single in today’s music business. For more information on this specific topic, as well as becoming a movie Star, professional athlete, and many other profitable ventures, be sure to contact your Local record company or talent agency. They will be more than willing to assist you in reaching their goals and disguising them as yours.