Fame has never been something that is reserved in a tin under the counter for the most talented people. Instead of being a meritocracy, the world of fame is littered with near misses, governed by serendipity and populated by the bloody-minded and handsome.
"Poor old Dot. Well, East-Enders returns tomorrow at 8pm," says the BBC announcer but you are not really listening. Instead, you're ogling the sinewy tango dancers on the screen, looking immaculate in scarlet, "and now, it is time for Celebrity Badger Baiting and will Sally Gunnell survive another week in the sett?"
As a member of one of the biggest boy bands of the early Naughties, Antony Costa was known throughout the world. He helped Blue clock up more than seven million record sales, three chart-topping albums, three UK number one singles, and two Brit Awards. The band even dueted with Stevie Wonder and Elton John.
Jay-Z might be making his Glastonbury debut this summer, but when Twickenham-based East of Ealing take to the Somerset stage, it will be as festival favourites.
Speaking prior to her appearance at Epsom Playhouse - the 1000th concert of her professional career - award-winning jazz singer Clare Teal seems to be more comfortable with things than she was this time last year.
Young and into music with loud guitars? You lucky, lucky thing. Not only are there countless young rock bands roaming the streets, thumbing their plectrums, and not only have you got RockStock for them to showcase their talents (plus the odd Bourne To Rock and Leatherhead Lick), now you have Stagefrite.
