"The Massacre," the new release from rapper 50 Cent [ tickets ], will hit stores March 3, five days earlier than initially scheduled.

Interscope Records cites "recent bootlegging" as the reason for the move.

"Fans want instant gratification, especially when they are fiending for my music," 50 Cent said in a statement. "They'll even risk buying the wrong s--- from bootleggers. I want them to have the real thing as soon as possible."

According to Interscope, 250,000 limited-edition packages of the album are being manufactured. The discs will include a CD key that allows access to exclusive content, including a bonus track; a trailer for 50 Cent's upcoming video game, "Bullet Proof"; and "many uncensored photographs."

"The best way to combat piracy problems is by getting the real version into stores with all the exclusive content and special packaging that comes with it," Interscope exec Steve Berman said in a statement.

"The Massacre" was executive produced by Dr. Dre, Eminem and 50 Cent, and co-executive produced by Sa Money XL. It features guest appearances by G-Unit, The Game, Olivia and Jamie Foxx.