Pope to release album of songs and prayers

AN ALBUM featuring the voice of Pope Benedict XVI is to be released worldwide later this year, a record label has announced.

He will be heard singing and speaking in Latin, Italian, Portuguese, French and German on an album to be released on the record label that was home to Nirvana and Guns N’ Roses.

It is the first time he will be heard on an album, according to Geffen UK/Universal, which is releasing the recording with the Pope’s blessing.

The album will be released on November 30, meaning that he could be an unlikely contender for a Christmas number one.

It will feature a blend of Lauretan Litanies and Marian popular chants with eight original pieces of modern classical music.

It will feature Pope Benedict reciting and singing passages and prayers, accompanied by the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome, conducted by Monsignor Pablo Colino, Maestro Emeritus of St Peter’s Basilica and recorded in St Peter’s Basilica in Rome.

The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra is recording the classical compositions at Abbey Road studios.

The Pope’s vocals have been licensed from Vatican Radio, which records his Masses, prayers and recitals, the record company said.

No figure was released for how much the deal was worth, but money will go to musical education for under-privileged children around the world.