LAND OF OPPORTUNITY

It's been said that a picture is worth a thousand words.

Well, an eye-catching music video might lead to something worth much more than that -- a recording contract.

The producers of Fox's American Idol are behind The Next Great American Band, and to be in the running, a group has to submit a video -- either via the TV series' own MySpace page or by mailing a DVD along with a completed application form.

There are eligibility requirements, of course.

For starters, each band should have at least two members and include "some form of musical instruments."

Also -- each member of a band that advances to the final round "must be able to demonstrate that he/she does not have (either alone or as a member of a group) a contract for talent representation (for example, a talent agent or manager), a music recording contract, a merchandising agreement, or any other contractual arrangement that would prohibit you, or any member of your band, from entering into a management contract, recording contract, talent contract and/or merchandising contract."

The deadline is July 31. For more information, visit www.myspace.com/americanband.

BECK/YARDBIRDS UPDATE

Jeff Beck's manager has told Billboard.com that the guitarist will not be touring this fall with The Yardbirds.

Still no confirmation or denial from Jimmy Page about his possible involvement.