UNSIGNED singers could get their big break when a national talent competition visits the Midlands.

Live and Unsigned arrives in the region next weekend and thousands of musicians are expected to take part in live auditions.

In 2007, more than 10,000 people entered the talent search that aims to unearth individual, original performers and give un-manufactured music talent the opportunity to shine.

Those involved in previous competitions have gone on to great things - Fizz Reynolds is currently making an album with four-time Ivor Novello winning producer Mark Hill, the group Cushh have broken into the UK charts, and B-Kay and Kazz, who won Live and Unsigned vocal group category, are currently on tour supporting Liberty X. The competition is split into two age categories, under 18s and 18 and over.

This year, the organisers are searching for the UK's best female solo artist, best male artist and best vocal group.

Contestants will be not only be given the chance to expose their talent live but also grab a recording and management contract with up to £20,000 investment to release a single with Future Music. Winners of the regional auditions will compete for a place in the national final, taking place in London in June.

The Midlands auditions are being held at Wulfrun Hall, in North Street, Wolverhampton, on Saturday, January 26.

To register go to www.liveandunsigned.uk.com