John's story: Popstar-maker

John
Successful pop songwriter John McLoughlin has written hits for bands including Five, Liberty X and Blue - and also tutored for the BBC's Fame Academy. In October 2004, he decided to use his experience to nurture fresh, upcoming musical talent.

John was one of five industry professionals who gave up their time to coach finalists in a charity talent show at The Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA).

'I had a really great day coaching young musicians - I gave career advice to new bands and think they took in what I had to say,' he says.

Music charity Youth Music hosted the cruelty-free talent show, filmed by the Community Channel's 'First Up'. The event relied on people like John volunteering their time and invaluable knowledge.

'The music industry is one of the strangest and hardest to succeed in, so it feels really good to be able to pass on my experience to others', says John, who also regularly takes time out to mentor musicians at his studio in Glasgow.