Online: Cover contests

Whether you're a seasoned YouTuber or new to the video site, a great way to become part of the tight-knit and very supportive YouTube community is to take part in cover contests. These are competitions looking for the best cover of a particular song, and they can be set by anyone from a famous website like Perez Hilton to a brand like Coke or even artists themselves who are searching for new talent to support them on their next tour.

Entering cover contests has loads of benefits - great prizes, chances to be seen by influential judges, a platform to reach new fans, and if all else fails they at least give you inspiration for your next YouTube cover.

Here are a few contests you could enter:

• Perez Hilton - Can You Sing
• YG Family Global Cover Event - win a trip to Korea!
• Hypetrak cover contest (for rappers)
• Van Halen cover contest (for instrument players)

I'll let you know if I hear about any more!