EA: One big hit can save music genre

The struggling music genre just needs one big hit to get it out of the doldrums, says EA’s worldwide music executive Steve Schnur.

And he hinted to MCV that EA has a few titles on the way that could be just the answer.

His comments came in response to questions about the state of the music genre, with sales of big selling rhythm action games – such as Guitar Hero and Rock Band – declining year-on-year.

The video game industry is no different than the movie, music or television business,” Schnur told MCV.

One big hit will change everything. And at EA, new hits are on the way.”

His comments echo that of EA CEO John Riccitiello, who told consumer website Kotaku that the music genre is going to recover.”

Schnur looks after EA’s music label Artwerk, and also feels that game soundtracks should have a bigger place at retail.

The industry is just now starting to catch up to what gamers have known for years: that the best game scores can – and should – have the same impact of film scores. And that includes their availability at retail,” he added.