Def Leppard has confirmed a three-song pack for Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock but in a surprise for fans, one of the tracks will be a brand-new unreleased single from the band’s upcoming new album Songs From The Sparkle Lounge.
The track, “Nine Lives,” is the result of an unusual collaboration between Def Leppard and Tim McGraw, son of legendary former Phillies reliever Tug McGraw, who is also apparently active in the music industry himself. Along with the new single, the track pack will feature live versions of two number-one tracks from the group’s groundbreaking album Pyromania, “Rock of Ages” and “Photograph.”
“Being involved with Guitar Hero is very exciting for us and adds a whole new layer of appreciation,” said Def Leppard lead singer Joe Elliott. “I know from personal experience how much more you get into the music by playing the game – which is why we were keen to explore this opportunity. Guitar Hero is extremely popular with all kinds of music heads, which includes a lot of our fans, and we think releasing “Nine Lives” this way first is just fantastic!”
Dusty Welch, head of publishing at Guitar Hero III publisher RedOctane, added, “We are extremely thrilled to be partnering with Def Leppard, who are true rock icons. The band’s participation in offering “Nine Lives” to fans exclusively via Guitar Hero III downloadable content before their album hits store shelves, before the single is available for purchase on iTunes, demonstrates the level of commitment these legendary artists are mkaing to Guitar Hero and how the franchise is transforming the music landscape.”
Formed in 1977, Def Leppard rose to prominence as part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal, but is often identified as a pop metal band due to its huge mid-80s success with albums like Pyromania and Hysteria. Songs From The Sparkle Lounge will hit store shelves on April 29, while “Nine Lives,” the first single, will be available to Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock owners via Xbox Live and the PlayStation Store on April 24.
