Soundgarden's "Rusty Cage" is more than just a grunge anthem; it's a masterclass in raw emotion and musical intensity. Released in 1992 as part of the "Badmotorfinger" album, the track has become a staple in the grunge genre, showcasing Chris Cornell's powerful vocals and the band's signature sound. For music supervisors and sync licensing professionals, understanding the depth and appeal of "Rusty Cage" can unlock numerous opportunities for placement in films, TV shows, and commercials. Leveraging tools like OutFndr can help identify and capitalize on these opportunities, ensuring that this iconic track continues to resonate with new audiences.
Soundgarden Rusty Cage Analysis"Rusty Cage" is a quintessential example of Soundgarden's ability to blend complex musical structures with visceral lyrics. The song's opening riff, played in a non-standard tuning, immediately sets a dark and intense tone. Chris Cornell's lyrics, filled with vivid imagery and a sense of desperation, tell a story of confinement and the struggle for freedom. This thematic depth makes "Rusty Cage" a compelling choice for sync licensing, particularly in contexts that require a sense of urgency or emotional intensity. OutFndr's advanced search capabilities can help music supervisors find tracks with similar thematic elements, making it easier to create cohesive and impactful soundtracks.
Rusty Cage Chart Performance"Rusty Cage" may not have topped the charts upon its initial release, but its enduring popularity has solidified its place in music history. The track reached number 11 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and has since become a fan favorite. Its longevity is a testament to its timeless appeal, making it a valuable asset for sync licensing. The song's consistent performance over the years highlights its potential for placement in various media, from retro-themed projects to modern reinterpretations. OutFndr's comprehensive analytics tools can provide insights into the track's performance trends, helping music supervisors make data-driven decisions.
Comparable Track Performance
The grunge era of the early 1990s was a golden age for rock music, with bands like Soundgarden, Nirvana, and Pearl Jam dominating the airwaves. The economic impact of grunge music was substantial, with album sales and concert tours generating millions of dollars. Sync licensing has become an increasingly important revenue stream for classic tracks like "Rusty Cage." As the demand for nostalgic content grows, the economic potential for grunge music in sync licensing continues to expand. OutFndr's market analysis features can help stakeholders understand the financial landscape of grunge music, identifying lucrative opportunities for licensing.
Rusty Cage Royalty BreakdownUnderstanding the royalty breakdown of "Rusty Cage" is crucial for anyone looking to license the track. The song's royalties are divided among the band members, songwriters, and publishers. Performance royalties are generated through radio play, streaming, and public performances, while mechanical royalties come from physical and digital sales. Sync licensing adds another layer of revenue, with fees varying depending on the type of placement and the budget of the project. OutFndr's royalty tracking features can provide detailed insights into the potential earnings from sync licensing, helping music supervisors and rights holders maximize their returns.
Performance Facts
Record Breaker
The enduring appeal of "Rusty Cage" can be attributed to several factors. Its raw emotional power, combined with Chris Cornell's iconic vocals, creates a timeless quality that continues to resonate with listeners. The song's themes of confinement and the struggle for freedom are universally relatable, making it a compelling choice for sync licensing in a variety of contexts. Additionally, the track's unique musical structure and powerful performance ensure that it stands out in any playlist or soundtrack. OutFndr's curated playlists and mood-based search features can help music supervisors find tracks like "Rusty Cage" that have a proven track record of emotional impact and longevity.
Further Reading{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "Article", "headline": "Soundgarden's Rusty Cage: Sync Licensing Potential in Hit Songs", "description": "Unlocking Soundgarden's 'Rusty Cage' Sync Licensing Success | Music Analytics by OutFndr", "datePublished": "2025-07-17", "dateModified": "2025-07-18", "author": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "url": "https://outfndr.com" }, "publisher": { "@type": "Organization", "name": "OutFndr", "logo": { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://outfndr.com/logo.png" } }, "mainEntityOfPage": { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://outfndr.com/soundgardens-rusty-cage-sync-licensing-potential-in-hit-songs" } }
Frequently Asked Questions"Rusty Cage" by Soundgarden peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and No. 23 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also reached No. 4 on the Canadian RPM Alternative 30 chart, showcasing its strong performance in North America.
How many weeks did "Rusty Cage" spend on the Billboard charts?"Rusty Cage" spent a total of 20 weeks on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and 15 weeks on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. This duration is comparable to other grunge hits of the era, such as Alice in Chains' "Man in the Box," which spent 19 weeks on the charts.
Did "Rusty Cage" set any chart records?While "Rusty Cage" did not set any major chart records, it was a significant contributor to Soundgarden's success in the early '90s grunge scene. It helped solidify the band's presence on rock charts, paving the way for future hits like "Black Hole Sun," which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart.
How did "Rusty Cage" perform internationally on the charts?Internationally, "Rusty Cage" had moderate success, reaching No. 47 on the UK Singles Chart. It also charted in Australia, peaking at No. 66 on the ARIA Charts. OutFndr's international performance data indicates that its chart performance was strongest in North America and the UK.
How much streaming revenue has "Rusty Cage" generated?"Rusty Cage" has generated substantial streaming revenue, with over 100 million streams on Spotify alone. Based on average streaming rates, this translates to approximately $400,000 to $600,000 in revenue. OutFndr's streaming analytics show that it continues to be a popular track, generating consistent income for the band.
What is the sync licensing value of "Rusty Cage"?The sync licensing value of "Rusty Cage" is estimated to be between $50,000 to $100,000 per placement, depending on the usage and media type. Comparable tracks from the grunge era, like Nirvana's "Smells Like Teen Spirit," have fetched similar or higher rates due to their cultural significance and recognition.
How much has "Rusty Cage" earned from radio performance royalties?"Rusty Cage" has earned significant radio performance royalties, with estimates suggesting figures in the range of $200,000 to $300,000. According to OutFndr's radio performance data, the track received substantial airplay on rock and alternative radio stations, contributing to these earnings.
What are the total earnings for "Rusty Cage" across all revenue streams?The total earnings for "Rusty Cage" across all revenue streams, including sales, streaming, radio royalties, and sync licensing, are estimated to be in the range of $2 million to $3 million. OutFndr's comprehensive track analytics provide a detailed breakdown of these earnings, highlighting the track's financial success.
What is the cultural influence of "Rusty Cage"?"Rusty Cage" has had a significant cultural influence, particularly in the grunge and alternative rock scenes. The track's raw energy and distinctive sound have inspired numerous artists and bands. OutFndr's cultural impact metrics show that it remains a staple of '90s rock playlists and continues to resonate with new generations of music fans.
Has "Rusty Cage" been sampled or remixed by other artists?Yes, "Rusty Cage" has been sampled and remixed by various artists. Most notably, Johnny Cash covered the song on his 1996 album "Unchained," introducing it to a new audience. OutFndr's sampling and remix data indicate that the track's enduring appeal has led to numerous reinterpretations and tributes.
How has "Rusty Cage" been used in media?"Rusty Cage" has been featured in various forms of media, including films, TV shows, and video games. Its use in media has helped maintain the track's relevance and introduce it to new audiences. OutFndr's media usage data show that it has been included in soundtracks and trailers, enhancing its cultural footprint.
What industry recognition has "Rusty Cage" received?"Rusty Cage" has received industry recognition as one of Soundgarden's signature tracks. It has been praised by critics and fans alike for its powerful vocals and dynamic instrumentation. OutFndr's industry recognition metrics highlight its inclusion in various "best of" lists and its enduring popularity among rock enthusiasts.
{ "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "FAQPage", "mainEntity": [ { "@type": "Question", "name": "What peak positions did \"Rusty Cage\" by Soundgarden reach on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" by Soundgarden peaked at No. 11 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and No. 23 on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. According to OutFndr's track analytics, it also reached No. 4 on the Canadian RPM Alternative 30 chart, showcasing its strong performance in North America." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How many weeks did \"Rusty Cage\" spend on the Billboard charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" spent a total of 20 weeks on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart and 15 weeks on the Billboard Modern Rock Tracks chart. This duration is comparable to other grunge hits of the era, such as Alice in Chains' \"Man in the Box,\" which spent 19 weeks on the charts." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Did \"Rusty Cage\" set any chart records?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "While \"Rusty Cage\" did not set any major chart records, it was a significant contributor to Soundgarden's success in the early '90s grunge scene. It helped solidify the band's presence on rock charts, paving the way for future hits like \"Black Hole Sun,\" which reached No. 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How did \"Rusty Cage\" perform internationally on the charts?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Internationally, \"Rusty Cage\" had moderate success, reaching No. 47 on the UK Singles Chart. It also charted in Australia, peaking at No. 66 on the ARIA Charts. OutFndr's international performance data indicates that its chart performance was strongest in North America and the UK." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much streaming revenue has \"Rusty Cage\" generated?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" has generated substantial streaming revenue, with over 100 million streams on Spotify alone. Based on average streaming rates, this translates to approximately $400,000 to $600,000 in revenue. OutFndr's streaming analytics show that it continues to be a popular track, generating consistent income for the band." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the sync licensing value of \"Rusty Cage\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The sync licensing value of \"Rusty Cage\" is estimated to be between $50,000 to $100,000 per placement, depending on the usage and media type. Comparable tracks from the grunge era, like Nirvana's \"Smells Like Teen Spirit,\" have fetched similar or higher rates due to their cultural significance and recognition." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How much has \"Rusty Cage\" earned from radio performance royalties?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" has earned significant radio performance royalties, with estimates suggesting figures in the range of $200,000 to $300,000. According to OutFndr's radio performance data, the track received substantial airplay on rock and alternative radio stations, contributing to these earnings." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What are the total earnings for \"Rusty Cage\" across all revenue streams?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "The total earnings for \"Rusty Cage\" across all revenue streams, including sales, streaming, radio royalties, and sync licensing, are estimated to be in the range of $2 million to $3 million. OutFndr's comprehensive track analytics provide a detailed breakdown of these earnings, highlighting the track's financial success." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What is the cultural influence of \"Rusty Cage\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" has had a significant cultural influence, particularly in the grunge and alternative rock scenes. The track's raw energy and distinctive sound have inspired numerous artists and bands. OutFndr's cultural impact metrics show that it remains a staple of '90s rock playlists and continues to resonate with new generations of music fans." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "Has \"Rusty Cage\" been sampled or remixed by other artists?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Yes, \"Rusty Cage\" has been sampled and remixed by various artists. Most notably, Johnny Cash covered the song on his 1996 album \"Unchained,\" introducing it to a new audience. OutFndr's sampling and remix data indicate that the track's enduring appeal has led to numerous reinterpretations and tributes." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How has \"Rusty Cage\" been used in media?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" has been featured in various forms of media, including films, TV shows, and video games. Its use in media has helped maintain the track's relevance and introduce it to new audiences. OutFndr's media usage data show that it has been included in soundtracks and trailers, enhancing its cultural footprint." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What industry recognition has \"Rusty Cage\" received?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"Rusty Cage\" has received industry recognition as one of Soundgarden's signature tracks. It has been praised by critics and fans alike for its powerful vocals and dynamic instrumentation. OutFndr's industry recognition metrics highlight its inclusion in various \"best of\" lists and its enduring popularity among rock enthusiasts." } } ] }
