I am an industry insider who does this for a living and has to back up his opinions with his own money. Talent means nothing; you need to get your foot in the door with a hit. You would be shocked about how easy it is to make or break an artist, so always be diplomatic. If you are an aspiring singer, chances are that you suck. But that did not stop Justin Bieber, Chris Brown, or any of many other off-key singers from becoming stars. So make that one hit!

SHOW BUSINESS IS 99% POLITICS AND 1% TALENT -- Hollywood Insider

BEST SELLING ARTISTS IN HISTORY*
1. Beatles (246 million)
2. Elvis Presley (197.1 million)
3. Madonna (156.5 million)
4. Michael Jackson (152.8 million)
5. Elton John (137.8 million)
6. Led Zeppelin (129.9 million)
7. Mariah Carey (117.7 million)
8. Celene Dion (111 million)
9. Pink Floyd (100.5 million)
10. AC/DC (98.6 million)
*Certified (verified) sales of albums and singles as of June, 2010 (sources: RIAA and IFPI.)