Hi Jackie-

I had great success with

http://www.writersdigestshop.com/Songwriters-Market

Got my first publishing contract 1st time out...through SM..
a rock song with record company publisher Ralph Johnson Big Wedge Records in Nashville TN titled:
WALKING WITH A NEW GIRL NOW.

Yes...good recording, cover letter, lyric sheet, as Ray mentioned;
and send out a postcards alerting the publishing company/record companies you are pitching to,
a few days before you send. Include an SASE (self addressed stamped envelope) if you want a response/critique, or your Lyric, CD or tape back if not accepted.

In the Songwiter's Market, they will have lists of publishers, record companies, producers & more to pitch to.
The listings include company name, address, phone number, how long in th biz, the genre, type of format accepted,
and if they accept unsolicited material. The track records of artists and songs they had success with, and how long it takes to get a response from them.
There are also articles on publishing, tips on how to submit your songs.

Also try;

www.SongU.com

Basically SongU is a songwriting course, but can answer any questions about publishing and other biz topics. You can get a free 10 day trial.
The best in the music biz at SongU Nashville TN.

Good Luck

~C~ wink

http://starseeker777.wordpress.com/

http://www.soundclick.com/coolcatcal