Although many remember him for his social approach, his closeness to the most humble or his messages of peace, Pope Francis also left a unique mark on contemporary music, for in 2015, just two years after becoming leader of the Catholic Church, Jorge Mario Bergoglio surprised the world with the release of his own album, Wake Up!
This musical album was not an improvised project. With the artistic direction of Don Giulio Neroni, a veteran in papal productions, and the collaboration of Italian musicians such as Tony Pagliuca (from Le Orme), the album fused the Pope’s speeches with pop rock, progressive rock and classical music sounds, in an unprecedented bid to bring the religious message closer to the new generations.
Music, prayer and social commitment
Buzzy
Officially launched on November 27, 2015 by Believe Digital, Wake Up! combines excerpts from papal speeches delivered in cities such as Rome, Rio de Janeiro, Seoul and Manila.
It includes modern melodies and lyrics in Italian, Spanish, English and Portuguese.
The songs seek to transmit values such as peace, faith, love and hope.
On several tracks, the style is reminiscent of 80’s rock.
It also incorporates moments of serenity with instrumental passages comparable to the work of artists such as Vangelis or Kitaro.
Far from sounding like traditional church music, this album by Pope Francis was intended to resonate with the ears of the general public.
Especially those who have moved away from organized religion.
In addition to its evangelistic intent, funds raised through Wake Up! were earmarked for refugee relief projects at a critical time for millions of people displaced by war and humanitarian crises.
Breaking the mold to the end
Pope Francis’ musical legacy with this album is part of his strategy of a “Church on the move”, capable of dialoguing with the modern world from all fronts, even from a recording studio.
His death on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88, has rekindled interest in his work and its impact beyond the religious.
Pope Francis also left a unique mark on contemporary music
QueOnnda.com
“Wake Up!” was not only an album, it was an invitation to listen to the Gospel message in a language that new generations could understand and feel,” Vatican sources said after his death.
For more information, visit QueOnnda.com.
