Hi ,

The use of independent music in video games is continuing to increase and is becoming a bigger and bigger source of revenue for songwriters who are actively licensing their music. 

In some cases, when an artist licenses a song for use in a video game there is a one time buy out regardless of how many units of the video game is sold.

In situations where a back end royalty is paid, per game royalties range from 8 cents to 15 cents per composition and buyouts range from $2,500 to over $20,000 with many in the $5,000 range.

As in many other areas, royalties and fees depend upon the value of the composition; the previous history or anticipated sales of the game; bargaining power of the parties; and the needs of the video game producer, music publisher, and songwriter.

The first step to licensing your music in both video games and TV and Films is to start submitting your music to people working in the industry. Over the last few years I've put together a very comprehensive directory of places to submit your music in the TV/Film and Video Game Music Business. This directory is a priceless resource that will provide you with specific information on how to get your music to the right people and companies who can get your music placed.  Check it out here. If you're already pretty business savvy and you have songs that you feel are high quality and ready to be pitched, all you'll need is the directory.  It has over 125 listings and is updated regularly.  When you buy the directory you get free updates for life.  It's a great directory and I  use it myself on a regular basis!