Idolator

With major labels slashing staff, budgets, office supplies, free half-and-half for the break room, and anything else not nailed down, it's harder than ever for an unsigned band to get its music into the hands of the executives that could change their lives forever by stranding them in indentured contractual hell after the next "restructuring." But fear not, future Billboard stars, because if you've got a few thousand bucks to blow, forget self-releasing your own record or signing to an indie and putting that money back into touring. Capitol Records is now auctioning off the chance for a hopeful band or solo act to sit down and audition for its A&R team—for charity, of course.

Description: Enjoy an experience of a lifetime as you meet with top executives from music label Capitol Records in New York City to pitch your music in an exclusive meeting. This is an opportunity of a lifetime for anyone looking to get noticed in the music business...

Donated by: EMI Music

Terms: Offer valid for the musical talent of one act (whether it's a solo act or a band). Winner is responsible for transportation to and from New York, NY and the Capitol Music Group offices, as well as all related expenses. Scheduling is subject to availability. This offer expires on 6/12/08.

Wow, no limo? The auction is "valued" at $5,000, but so far the high bid is still $275, with nine days left to go. (If you're more jazz, or maybe only a little bit rock'n'roll, you can also bid to audition for Blue Note.) Winning offers no guarantee that the folks at Capitol will do anything more than offer a polite but firm "we'll call you," which might be why someone's already bid more than three times as much to win a chance to meet the ladies of The View. And that's with no more Star Jones.

Pitch to Capitol Music Group Executives to Try and Launch Your Music Career! [Charity Buzz; HT: therichgirlsareweeping]