Do it for real.

The X Factor season has come around again, a year's full cycle with the early stage engagement which started the train of thought which led to this blog. Once again we have experienced a sense of it giving people an opportunity, but cannot get away from the fact that it also exploits those with no talent or discernment for a cheap laugh. Plus of course the knowledge that those who do get through will be pushed through ill fitting gaps to conform or not to what the programme wants.

If you have, or believe you have, the talent to be a successful recording artist then develop the skills you need or find the right people to work with to achieve the specifics you need. Identify your strengths and possible weaknesses then work out an appropriate course of action.

If you want to go it alone then learn the instrumental skills you need to accompany the songs you write. This doesn't mean you need to be a virtuoso. A simple, spare guitar melody is often better than something more intricate. None much sparer than this. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4v8VJ0LRgA

If you have performance skills which can compliment your vocal skills then very likely you will be better off finding people to help produce the melodies to your lyrics and leave you free to act out the songs on stage. It doesn't always work this way. Some vocalists can only confidently front a band with a comfort blanket of a guitar for a whole set.

You may find yourself sharing the whole song writing process to mutual benefit if you find the right collaborators.

Record as much as you can as you go, so that you can subject yourself or selves to a rigorous process of self assessment. When you have 15 or 20 minutes worth of material that you can perform to your satisfaction you should feel confident to perform in public. You might even do a couple of songs before this at an open mic night. this depends on the opportunities your local scene offers.

The option to record videos, even on decent quality phones, gives current new artists the scope to build an audience before they even perform, taking advantage of social networks.

Always feel open to ask the opinions and advice of those you trust to respond fairly and honestly. Make your own decisions still, but you will find comfort and confidence even when disagreeing with those prepared to give the benefit of their time and experience.

Be real.

If this doesn't work you can always try the reality route later.