I have a few friends that are musicians (and some who think they are). Where can I find some standard rates that are paid for in-game music? I have no knowledge upon which to base any fee negotiation. What about backend-loaded contracts that pay them a percentage of gross? To complicated for a wee wannabee app developer? I'm getting ahead of myself, but what kind of royalty rates are given to musicians in the really big platform games -- where music is a really big part, specifically composed for the storyline. Is this kind of information in any of the "Video Game Business" books? Thanks in advance
Most game audio is done as a flat or buyout rate. That goes for composers, sound designers, and voice actors. Only film actors making movies get residuals. You might be able to find some reference rates here. Game audio is incredibly competitive. Not to mention, some developers can do it too.
