MUMBAI: One of the most powerful religious figures in the world- Pope Francis has made his musical debut, with the release of the progressive rock track ‘Wake up! Go! Go! Forward!’ on 25 September, during his visit to the US.

Don Giulio Neroni, the producer of the album, which is titled ‘Wake Up!’ designed the track with exciting reverb, pounding drums and post-rock influenced electric guitars.

The track, which is free to download, was released on Rolling Stone and features the Bishop of Rome delivering sacred hymns and chants to his South Korean masses in English. The album, however, will be released on 27 November, 2015, and can be pre-ordered on iTunes.

Pope Francis will use this opportunity to address issues like peace, dignity, environmental concerns and helping people in need. The album will have 11 tracks with the Pope delivering speeches in Italian, English, Spanish and Portuguese, to reach wider audiences.

The Pontiff, who gained immense popularity with his progressive ideas like support for same-sex marriages and concerns for real issues like climate change and poverty, directs his attention to music as a medium to convey his messages.

His views have been appreciated by ‘Queen of Pop’- Madonna, during her recent tour. “Rules are for fools. That’s why I like the new Pope. He seems very open-minded,” expressed the 'Rebel Heart' singer.

The Pope’s popularity will only grow with this album release in the music community, and his masses.

Pope Francis is not the first pontiff to feature in a musical track. Pope Benedict XVI, his predecessor, also provided vocals for ‘Music from the Vatican: Alma matter’.

'Wake Up' will also feature other musicians like Tony Pagliuca, who composed several tracks, including the recently released ‘Wake Up! Go! Go! Forward!’

Track listing

1. Annuntio Vobis Gadium Mangum

2. Salve Regina

3. Laudato Sie…

4. Poe Que' Sufren Los Ninos

5. Non Lasciatevi Rubare La Speranza!

6. La Iglesia No Puede Ser Una Ong!

7. Wake Up! Go! Go! Forward!

8. La Fa Es Entera, No Se Licua!

9. Pace! Fratelli!

10. Per La Famiglia

11. Fazei O Que Ele Vos Disser