Cliff Richard to team up with Motown's artists for new album, tour

Pop singer Cliff Richard has unveiled plans for a new album and tour that will see him teaming up with Motown's greatest living artists.

Richard, 70, who said he was tired of being "compartmentalised" by the music industry, revealed the news about his new album, Soulicious at a press conference in London.

"This is just a dream come true for me. It is difficult to be 'new' when you've been singing for 52 years, but I am going to try...if we can finish this, I will have died and gone to heaven," the Daily Express quoted him as saying.

Richard is teaming up with a string of soul stars to record his album of duets after his TV star friend Gloria Hunniford suggested the idea to David Gest during an episode of 'Celebrity Cash In The Attic'.

"Most of the tunes are very contemporary and do not be surprised if a rapper or two appears on this album. Cliff has a remarkable voice. People will be amazed by his versatility," Gest added.

He will tour the UK this autumn when his new album is released.