This is going to be my very first build and i have no idea on where to start
I will have around 1000-1200$ and can go over if i have to

I will be using this comp for mostly games and music

Only top end game that i think i will be probably playing is call of duty 4 and maybe crisis

thanks

researching some parts is usually a good place, roam the forums and review sites
put together a parts list and post it

Do research First!!! Look around online at like newegg.com and other sites to get an idea of parts. I'll list some parts here but you'll get loads of replies if you post a parts list of what ur thinking to buy.

Q6600 around $180-210, good for long term future use and great overclocker!

Radeon 4850 or 4870 these go for around 170 - 270 for the 4870

a good 4gb of ram at least 800mhz bus

Hard drives are dirt cheap, dont go for anything less than 500GB

An LG or Sony dvdrw drive, fastest speeds go for $25-35

At least a 600W power supply, if you want future crossfire, (dual graphics cards) then go for a higher psu.

Stay away from gimicky cases that have 300mm fans, useless.

Im running a Q6600, with 3gb ram, 500gb hd, 8800gt, cod4 runs around 60 to 70 fps avg at 1680x1050 res constantly. A radeon 4850 or 4870 will run it even better.

Do you have a monitor? If so what size? If not does your budget need to include one?

i have a 19" monitor Samsung Syncmaster 940bx which i am happy with. I play my games at 1280x1024 res