Rock Star Supernova bassist Jason Newsted needs immediate shoulder surgery and will be replaced in the lineup when the new U.S. band hits the road.

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Newsted tore his left bicep and rotator cuff when he tried to catch a bass falling from an amplifier and will be out of commission for up to nine months, a spokesperson for the band told Billboard.com.

The group of rock superstars compiled for a CBS reality competition to find a lead vocalist will still kick off its tour Dec. 31 in Las Vegas with Tommy Lee, Gilby Clarke and reality show winner Lukas Rossi.

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Rock Star Supernova's first album hits the streets Nov. 21.

A search is under way now to replace Newsted, the former bassist for Metallica.

Lee said the band will miss its bassist, whom he called "the right guy for this band," and said the replacement will only be temporary with Newsted returning "as soon as he can pick up and play."