Gosh, there's hope for all of us.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/personalfinance/fameandfortune/9415918/Rick-Astley-I-had-a-record-out-in-August-and-by-March-I-was-a-millionaire.html

Sad news that Marines, a band I've been tipping for success for the past three years, have split up. Here is a moving farewell from Tim, which contains a link to more songs. Puzzled by the vagueness of the reference to John, though I'm sure all will become clear in time. He has been an impressive character from a very early age, and I'm sure he'll succeed whatever adversity is thrown at him. Good luck to all the guys in whatever they do.
http://marinesrip.tumblr.com/

A Word of Caution

     It seems that currently there are a number of companies seeking potential talent in the music industry. At a time when traditional record labels are struggling, and more bands and artists are doing things on their own, there are still plenty of people seeking to develop a business opportunity. If you are contacted by anyone claiming to be A&R, or representing a company, then check out that company. You want evidence of a track record in the form of a rosta of artists and of releases. You would also want to be sure that these artists and releases demonstrate that as a label they are right for you.

     If they have no such history that doesn't necessarily mean they are a waste of time. They could be new set ups, often by an individual with a strong track record. That will normally be made clear on the website, but you can always ask. In such cases they are likely to be a very small unit, so you will be dealing with one of the proprietors rather than 'A&R'. Keep an open mind, but don't waste too much time thinking about them until they provide evidence that they are not time wasters.

     Avoid like the plague anyone asking for money from you, advertising 'sign for free', or who encourages you to sign a contract without urging you to seek independent legal (and/or parental) advice on its contents.

     Remember also that if a genuine record company is interested in you they are likely in the first instance to want to see you perform live at a proper gig, to an audience. They will always be prepared to come to you, and they will want to see how that audience reacts to you. They will not ask you to come 'for interview' as I have seen on one website, or for 'audition' in a sterile situation.

     Good luck, don't be in too much of a hurry regarding these issues, and try to make the right decisions. There will always be people around happy to help and support genuine talent without being on the make.