Venezuela's Chavez sings on socialist party album
CARACAS (Reuters) - Venezuela's flamboyant President Hugo Chavez has made a show business appearance singing on a new compilation of revolutionary songs released by his United Socialist Party of Venezuela.
Chavez, who is prone to belting out Venezuela folk songs during his frequent television appearances, sings an ode to a 19th century rebel leader on the album, released to coincide with the last weeks of campaign to elect governors and mayors.
The president's familiar growling baritone rolls over a traditional harp-led "joropo" backing in the song, which praises the exploits of Maisanta, a rebel fighter from whom Chavez claims to be descended.
The album, called "Battle Music" and sporting a clenched fist on the cover, also features a rap track that samples a Chavez speech.
Last year, one of Chavez's aides put together a selection of the former paratrooper's top singing moments.
(Reporting by Frank Jack Daniel and Alantl Molina; Editing by Bill Trott)
