I used to be a musician, how can I continue where I left off? Need technical adv

Question:When I was 12 I used to be in outdoor concerts in my town in Puerto Rico, I was also in a couple of pageants. I played in front of an audience in several occasions and even though I didn't know how to read/write music I could handle playing by ear. I want to continue where I left off, for if I had stayed in my town I would have become famous by now, but our life gave a big turn and we landed where we are.

I want to be able to record/play music and sing like I used to. I am 30 but really want to do this.

Only problem is I am nearly broke and need advice where to begin. I need the following things and I need them cheap, so please tell me where I can find all the necessary things without going over $400-$500

-Keyboard with 61 keys with preloaded rhythms and voices (organ, piano, trumpet, etc.) with its own synthesizer/midi.
-Kareokie with Microphone
-Medium to be able to record into my computer by perhaps USB/Firewire.

I need it to be serious (not toys) but yet affordable, thanks!

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: When I was 12 I used to be in outdoor concerts in my town in Puerto Rico, I was also in a couple of pageants. I played in front of an audience in several occasions and even though I didn't know how to read/write music I could handle playing by ear. I want to continue where I left off, for if I had stayed in my town I would have become famous by now, but our life gave a big turn and we landed where we are.

I want to be able to record/play music and sing like I used to. I am 30 but really want to do this.

Only problem is I am nearly broke and need advice where to begin. I need the following things and I need them cheap, so please tell me where I can find all the necessary things without going over $400-$500

-Keyboard with 61 keys with preloaded rhythms and voices (organ, piano, trumpet, etc.) with its own synthesizer/midi.
-Kareokie with Microphone
-Medium to be able to record into my computer by perhaps USB/Firewire.

I need it to be serious (not toys) but yet affordable, thanks!

Most store sell packages that come with Mics, CD Recorders, cords & Monitors.

Or you could also buy these separate items

1. You get a used or a small Yamaha or Roland keyboard.
2. You could also get a Shure microphone ( these are the best Mics around!)
3. A Lambda/or an Omega external Recording Harddrive.
(I've seen these External harddrives in many music catalogs though I've never used one myself. I personally pay studios hourly to record my music)
4. I don't know Karoke machines.
5. Or you also can buy a little 4 Track Tape or CD Recorder too like a TASCAM, or a FOSTEX recorder. They are mighty cheap on the budget

For about $400- $500. I'd also say look on Ebay for this stuff
for that dollar amount.
Or shop at

www.guitarcenter.com
www.music123.com
www.samedaymusic.com

Good luck

I agree with the above answer.
Have you considered going back to school to study music technology? You can obtain grants/loans to pay tuition and have access to all sorts of great equipment to utilize.