A Worcester Park resident is celebrating the launch of his debut single – penned by 1980s superstar Boy George.

King of Kings by Mauro Dirago was released on Monday, the first single from his forthcoming album, Rewind.

And the Italian-born singer songwriter, who moved to Kingston aged just three, is hoping his collaboration with the former Culture Club frontman and Ministry of Sound DJ proves a hit with the record buying public.

The song was written by Boy George and Rob Davies, a former popstar with glam rock group Mud, who also helped compose Kylie Minogue’s Number One smash Can’t Get You Out of My Head.

It’s a potent musical combination which Mr Dirago, 37, believes will help bring his music to a wider audience.

The former Richard Challoner student said: “Fingers crossed, the plan is the singles charts. “But the main thing we want out of this is awareness.

"If it charts that would be great, but really it’s a kickstart to build up for the album.”

Mr Dirago, who has a 12-year-old daughter, Annalisa, has already played a few album tracks live on Robert Elms’ BBC Radio London show. Citing influences ranging from Elvis Presley and the Beatles to 1980s acts such as George Michael, Mr Dirago described his music as “retro and uplifting”.

“What you’re going to get from the album is very much retro, everything from 60s to 80s.

“King of Kings is about a guy wondering what’s happened in his life. He’s had a relationship with a girl and she’s gone off and had kids with someone else.

“But it’s an uplifting song, about how no matter what happens, you’re still the king of kings and just keep pushing through.

“The whole record is about being uplifting.”

King of Kings is out now on iTunes. His album is due for release early next year.

Visit maurodirago.com.