Former METALLICA and VOIVOD bassist Jason Newsted has launched his new official web site at NewstedHeavyMetal.com.

An introductory message from Jason reads as follows: "Jason Newsted here, it's really me... LOOK!!

"It's time for me to reconnect with all my fans and friends out there around the world with the launch of my OFFICIAL online presence.

"I want YOU to be the first to know about what's happening with me and all of my projects: past, present, and FUTURE!. So send me your email by signing up here on the website and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube."

Check out a video message below.

Jason was inducted, along with the current members of METALLICA and the band's late bassist Cliff Burton, into the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame on April 4, 2009 in Cleveland, Ohio.

According to MTV, Newsted quit METALLICA in February 2001 for several reasons, including his desire to play more of a creative role. He also felt the band had lost its focus and was spending too much time involved in litigation and political rhetoric. And finally, he needed time off to recover from neck and back injuries he sustained banging his head every night onstage.

Newsted last performed with METALLICA in December 2011 at all four intimate shows at the Fillmore in San Francisco as part of the band's week-long celebration of its 30th anniversary as a group for fan club members only.