The Dalai Lama announces debut album

To mark his 85th birthday, the Dalai Lama has announced the release of his debut album, Inner World. The 11-track project is out on July 6, via Khandro Music and HitCo Entertainment – making the spiritual leader labelmates with the likes of Jennifer Lopez, Outkast's Big Boi, Fifth Harmony's Dinah Jane and SAINt JHN.

Inner World consists of mantras and teachings set to music – co-produced by Junelle Kunin and Charles Goldstuck, and featuring sitar player Anoushka Shankar.

"The very purpose of my life is to serve as much as I can," the Dalai Lama notes in a statement about the release.

Proceeds from the album will go to the Mind & Life Institute and Social, Emotional and Ethical Learning – an educational programme designed by the Dalai Lama and Emory University.

Ahead of the release, the Dalai Lama has shared 'Compassion'. Listen below: