Berlusconi plans new love album

Mr Berlusconi likes nothing better than bursting into song

Italian Prime Minister and former cruise ship crooner Silvio Berlusconi is reportedly working on a new album of love songs.

He is helping to pen the lyrics to a fresh set of romantic ballads to be recorded by a famous Neapolitan singer.

A previous album released with Mariano Apicella - Meglio Una Canzone (Better a Song) - reached Italy's Top 50 when it was issued in 2003.

The CD could be completed in time for Christmas, Italian newspapers report.

"We are working hard," Mr Apicella is quoted as telling Italy's La Repubblica newspaper.

BERLUSCONI'S LOVE LYRICS I feel that life is bent on dividing us And I am frightened of being left without you I know perhaps you'll make me suffer But I'll not let you go Even if I have to fight For I'll love you to the end

"I would like the CD to come out in December but it won't be easy, given the premier's many engagements."

The prime minister also collaborated on a second album with Mr Apicella which was released in 2006 and entitled L'Ultimo Amore, or Last Love.

He reportedly dedicated a few days of his holiday in Sardinia to working on the lyrics.

Mr Berlusconi is well-known for bursting into song, once serenading Russian President Vladimir Putin during talks.

The 71-year-old has said in the past that he likes to stay up late into the night composing love songs.

The album is expected to include 14 songs, one of which, according to Mr Apicella, is already complete.

"It will probably be used as an advert for a Mediaset soap opera," he said, referring to the television channel owned by the prime minister.