An album featuring for the first time the voice of Pope Benedict XVI was to be launched on Tuesday by a record label that counts among its artists the rapper Snoop Dogg and The Eagles.The CD, which is being released in time for Christmas, features the Pope reciting and singing prayers and litanies in five languages, including Latin, Italian and his mother tongue, German.
Entitled Music from the Vatican, the album has been produced by Geffen Records, which in the past has signed Nirvana, Guns 'N Roses, The Cure and Mary J Blige.
"We are honoured to be partners on this historic production which will, for the first time, bring the voice of Pope Benedict XVI to a worldwide audience through these stunning musical compositions," said Colin Barlow, president of Geffen UK.
The Pontiff, who is said to have a good voice, is accompanied on the album by the Royal Philarmonic Orchestra, with the classical music recorded at Abbey Road studios in London. It is the first time that he has ever collaborated in producing an album.
The CD, which features eight pieces of contemporary classical music, also features the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome, with recordings made in St Peter's in Rome.
The Pope himself did not have to go into a studio – recordings of his singing and recitals were provided by Vatican Radio.
The specially-commissioned music was written by three composers, including the Simon Boswell, a Briton who has composed scores for more than 90 feature films, including several directed by Danny Boyle, the Oscar-winning director.
While Mr Boswell describes himself as an agnostic, the two other composers are an Italian Catholic, Stefano Mainetti, and a Muslim Moroccan, Nour Eddine.
"We have all been very moved at how successfully these modern scores blend with the choir, the orchestra and the Pope's voice," said producer Vincent Messina.
Proceeds from the album will help fund musical education for underprivileged children around the world.
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