Pope Benedict XVI is preparing to release his maiden album, “Alma Mater”, on November 30, just in time for Christmas. The collection will feature Lauretan litanies and prayers with musical accompaniment, and will be released by Geffen Records. His Holiness will not be stepping into a studio, however. The Pontiff’s musical stylings, spoken and sung in five different languages, are a collection of recordings made at official services and speeches. The Vatican is supplying the material.
Can A Country & Western Album Be Far Behind?
This project was presented to the Holy Father after the famous label—founded by Jewish musical entrepreneur David Geffen in 1980—got wind that the Pontifex Maximus was working on an album with the Choir of the Philharmonic Academy of Rome. Colin Barlow, president of Geffen UK, said, “We travelled to Rome, heard some of the music and realized it was…beautiful…and something that actually could be an incredible record for us to work on.” Another source from label revealed that listeners would be “shocked” by the Pope’s “incredible voice”.
It is really no surprise that the label to sign the Pope has been home to Aerosmith, Nirvana, Guns ‘N Roses, Snoop Dogg and The Game. The Holy See has provided Pope Benedict with some of the finest in papal accessories. He often punches up his robes with either a gold cross or a cross encrusted with diamonds and sapphires. Many of the silk damask copes he wears have gold clasps set with rubies or other precious gems. He has shown that bling knows no religious borders.
Barlow says that the Vatican is very pleased with the recording so far. The album will contain eight different tracks. One features His Holiness singing and the others include musical accompaniment to past recitals of prayers and Bible passages. “It’s very much about delivering a really brilliant piece of music and making sure we treat it with the respect it deserves,” Barlow said. The choir recorded their parts in St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra recorded their parts at London’s Abbey Road Studios.
Proceeds from album sales will go to programs that provide musical education to underprivileged children around the world. Geffen has come a long way, from its first signing of Donna Summer to its recent agreement with the Holy See.
Although Geffen’s first number one album was John Lennon’s “Double Fantasy”, one can assume that a recording by His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI will find quite an audience, undoubtedly making Mr. Geffen very, very proud.