Electrical shut down at start up

I have a 2004 Cavalier with 80K and the 2.0 Eco. When I turn the key to the accessory position all dash lights come on and the radio shows the correct time. Once I turn the key to start the engine everything dies as if I disconnected the battery (radio will now be set to 12:00 due to power loss). I pull the key out let it sit for a few seconds and try again. Sometimes it starts immediately other times it takes 4-5 tries. Any clues?

I'd have to make sure the battery has a full charge and the connections are good. With the key in the crank position, what are the dash lites doing? Are they on or off, anything?

It turned out to be a loose connection on the battery. It obviously had enough of a connection to give me juice but not enough under full load. Battery was tested and had no issues.