Martyn Ware, co-founder of the English synth-pop band Heaven 17, revealed that his band turned down an offer from Rockstar Games to include their song Temptation in the upcoming Grand Theft Auto 6 soundtrack. Ware shared his reaction on social media, claiming the offer amounted to $7,500 for the song, with a buyout of all future royalties. The artist expressed his displeasure at the proposal, referring to the amount as shockingly low.
In his statement, Ware wrote, “Naturally excited about the immense wealth that was about to head my way, I scrolled to the bottom of the email re the offer… IT WAS $7,500 – for a buyout of any future royalties from the game – forever.” Ware added, “Go f**k yourself,” in response to the proposal, noting the discrepancy between the payout and the potential earnings from the game.
“Exposure” Argument Falls Flat
After receiving criticism from some who argued that the exposure would be worth the deal, Ware clarified his stance. He emphasized the limited financial value of exposure, explaining that, “an extra one million streams generates each writer a pitiful $1,000 each.”
While Grand Theft Auto games are known for their expansive soundtracks, featuring hundreds of licensed songs across various radio stations, it appears that Heaven 17 won’t be making the cut this time. Rockstar has yet to comment publicly on the matter.
Given GTA6 should realise revenue in the multiple billions (V was $8.5B apparently) I can see why you would reject one millionth of that, if you are 1/100th of the game music, and for this series, the music is maybe even 1/20th of the game experience.
I'd probably try to negotiate a 1/100,000 cut of revenue (not profit). If VI is a $10B game, that would raise $100,000 over ten years, which seems reasonable.