In what could become a valuable new tool for direct band to fan communication, MySpace is bringing its desktop instant messaging client, MySpaceIM, to its social networking pages. The company is beta-testing in Canada, but will roll it out to other English-speaking countries including the U.S. over the next few weeks with other regions to follow.

The new MySpaceIM sits at the bottom of the browser window in its own toolbar, according to CNet, with  ta format similar to Facebook Chat. It can also pop out into its own browser window. Privacy settings allow IMs with MySpace users not on your friends list, be invisible or to only accept IMs from approved friends.

Imagine thousands of fans asking 50 Cent questions via IM. And will it really be Fitty who answers?