MP3 Light Show

[Gizza]

Hi

I have to create a program using C++ which can play mp3 files and create a lightshow based on the mood of the music.

I know this isnt really winamp related, but i figured this is the best place to get information as their are certainly similarities.

Basically i know i need to extract the audio information from the .mp3 such as frequencies and volumes etc, however i have no idea how this is done.

Does anyone know how or can point me in the right direction of how this is done without actually using winamp?

Thankyout very much for any help that u can give!

Gizza