Won't play, has data, can't link to iTunes to restore settings

Hello,

My iPod was working OK until the other day. I tried to sync some music, when I tried to play it looked the screen said "no music", however in settings it says the iPod is about half full. When I try to link to iTunes (via Windows Vista OS) the "please wait" wheel keeps going round and I can't get to restore settings. The only way to stop the wheel is to disconnect the iPod from the PC. Is there anything I can do to get it working again?