Metal band Metallica may be airing their new single on Rock Band as a downloadable track. 

For those who are aware of MTV's involvement in the production of the game, this news does not come as a surprise.  For MTV, Rock Band isn't just a video game; it's a whole new experience, an alternative way to sell music directly to gamers.

MTV Entertainment's Paul DeGooyer announced that Metallica has already signed the dotted line, though details surrounding this contract remain vague.  The song title, date of release, and download fee have not been revealed. 

Currently, the cost of downloading individual tracks for Rock Band is $1.99.   MTV and Harmonix plan to release new music for the game on a weekly basis, gradually expanding its library. No doubt other musicians will soon be joining thd band wagon (if not already).  Metallica is just one of few leading the way.

No one is more hopeful about all of this as DeGooyer:

"I think it has tremendous promise for the music industry."