So, there is a new Wii-based rhythm game coming up for Christmas 2008. For the sake of argument let's call it Guitar Hero IV or Rock Band II. Just how much could a band expect to make from getting one of its songs into the game?

We don't mean Metallica or Aerosmith, we mean relative unknowns. Well, licensing company Audiosocket is asking for submissions by musicians who want their music included on the forthcoming Wii Guitar game. Here's what you could expect:

"An Audiosocket video game client is seeking Rock music for a video game they're developing for the Wii platform. The game is slated to be release before the holidays in 2008.

"The total music budget is $60,000. This money will be paid the the licensed artist based on length of use (how much of the song they use) and frequency of use (how often they use it). Accepted genres include metal and rock.

Any artist selected will be paid for song placement. The artist will take 60% of the gross licensing fee. Audiosocket, as the licensing agency on this project, will retain 40% of the gross fee. The music will be used within the game only. If the game developer wishes to use a song for advertisement of the game (i.e. out of context use) they will need to secure an additional license for that use."

So, a music budget for a Wii-based guitar game comes in at $60k (£30k)? Looking at the business that GH and Rock Band having been doing, you would imagine that this could be recouped in, say, five minutes of sale.

^{Source: Sonicbids
See also: Audiosocket}