Rock Star Supernova hires ex Black Crowes bassist

Rock Star Supernova, the band manufactured on the second season of the CBS-TV reality series Rock Star, has selected former Black Crowes bassist Johnny Colt to replace Jason Newsted, according to Blabbermouth.net. The ex-Metallica bass player had to bow out of Rock Star Supernova's upcoming North American tour after suffering a freak accident. Rock Star Supernova drummer Tommy Lee said in a statement, "Johnny's the guy. Gilby (Clarke, guitarist) and I have known him for a long time. He's the kind of player that can plug in and immediately make his presence felt. You'll know what I mean when you see us live."

Newsted was scheduled for immediate surgery after tearing an anterior labrum in his left shoulder and a bicep and rotator cuff in his right, reportedly while attempting to catch a 90-pound bass head that had fallen off his amp. The surgery will be followed by physical therapy that could take up to nine months.

In addition to Motley Crue drummer Lee and ex-Guns N' Roses guitarist Clarke, Rock Star Supernova features newly-selected singer Lukas Rossi.

Rock Star Supernova's self-titled debut album comes out on November 21st, when the band will also make its national television debut on Jimmy Kimmel Live. A North American tour is scheduled to begin on New Year's Eve (December 31st) in Las Vegas.