Death Metal MusicMusic and Culture on the Edge

A new series of albums featuring the greatest hits, signature tunes and fan favorites of the most popular artists in music history will offer unprecedented value to consumers. The aptly named Icon series from Universal Music Enterprises launches August 31, 2010, with releases from 30 major artists spanning rock, pop, R&B and country. �

In the three years since Guitar Hero stole the video game stage, fast-fingered consumers have bought more than 22 million units. Now, Activision and developer Neversoft are looking to kick the franchise up a notch with Guitar Hero: Metallica, due early in 2009.

Guitar Hero hit a chord with consumers to the tune of $1.4 billon since arriving in November 2005. Last year, Rock Band added drums and karaoke-style singing to the mix and has sold more than $530 million. Each has a new version, Rock Band 2 ($60, out now) and Guitar Hero World Tour ($50-$60, out Sunday), with more songs and new ways to rock out. USA TODAY compares their repertoires: