Tim McGraw has a new prize to claim. He co-wrote Def Leppard's new single "Nine Lives" along with band members Phil Collen, Joe Elliot and Rick Savage.

The song is the first single from Def Leppard's forth-coming album, Songs From the Sparkle Lounge.

McGraw initiated the co-write idea three years ago through his long-time tour manager Robert Allen, brother of Def Leppard drummer Rick Allen. The actual collaboration process began a year later when McGraw sat in on their Hollywood Bowl show in 2006.

"We didn't start with any preconceived notions about the song," McGraw said. "Each of us brought something different to the table and we drew on each others influence to finish it out. They are simply one of the best rock bands ever and it was a great time working together."

McGraw is a current Grammy nominee as a songwriter for "If You're Reading This." He will be releasing a studio album later this year.

Labels: Tim McGraw