Fr Ray holds out for 'best possible' record deal

Singing priest Fr Ray Kelly is holding out for the "best deal possible" in his negotiations with some of the biggest record companies in the world.

The Tyrrellspass native, who became an international star after a You Tube video of him performing the Leonard Cohen classic Hallelujah at a wedding ceremony last month received 30m views, is currently in discussions with a number of record companies including Sony and Universal.

Speaking to the Irish Independent Fr Kelly said that he was in no rush to sign on the dotted line.

"I want to get the best deal possible, one that allows me to record not just one album, but two or three," he explained.

"The money is important too, because that will enable me to donate more to certain charities and to help out my family members, some of who are in negative equity.

"I also have personal needs myself and want to look after myself, as I'm not on a huge salary as a priest."

Fr Kelly also revealed that he was going to seek advice from the members of classical singing group The Priests on how to juggle a musical career with pastoral life.

"I haven't met The Priests yet but I certainly plan on speaking to them to see how they managed to combine the duties of their parishes with all the performances they do.

"For them, it's probably even trickier to go on tours because they have to make arrangements and get cover for three parishes, whereas for me it'll be just the one."But it will be very interesting to have a chat with them and get some advice."