New Opportunities in the Video Game Music World

The slowed growth of the entertainment industry has everyone worried. What to do if you're an aspiring musician seeking to promote your music in movies? Consider shifting your focus to video games. In the US, combined console and PC game revenue outpaced movie revenue in 2008, and with the current pace of industry growth, this trend is set to continue. This is one area that is not going to slow. In fact, each day it is bringing increased popularity.

It's such a cliché that it almost doesn't bear repeating: game soundtracks have long cast their 80's MIDI roots aside. Nowadays, a game doesn't have to be the next Guitar Hero to demand top quality tracks: consider 2K Sports's recent hit The Bigs, which solicited hard rock music talent from over 10 famous bands, including Jane's Addiction, Stone Temple Pilots, and White Zombie. And people are finally starting to catch on, with peer-reviewed Ivor Novello music awards set to include a new category for game music. An, area a inspiring musician definitely might want to seek.

And don't think video game fans don't appreciate the value of a good soundtrack. Video Games Live is a massively popular concert series that performs exclusively video game music to sold-out venues all over the world, from China to Vancouver to Broadway. With the release of the hit PC game Civilization 4, fans were clamoring... for the music played in its title sequence. It is not only a way for an inspiring musician to get their foot in the door it is a means for the artist to beocme recognized. There is the possibility for potential stardom here and many inspiring artist are taking advantage of this.

Finally, video games have been increasingly soliciting music talent. Just ask movie music composers and supervisors Michael Giacchino, Danny Elfman, and Bill Conti, all who have been tapped for video game work. (Giacchino even got his start there!). Or hit J-Pop star GACKT and artists like him who have sold their music rights to video game companies. This is a high dollar arena as well. There are many contracts that will ensure the future of the artist.

If you are an inspiring young or old artist, then you just may wish to give the video gaming industry a try. It definitely can gain you the recognition you desire and can keep food on the table! To your success, good luck!