Bob Dylan to release Christmas album for charity

Bob Dylan is releasing a Christmas album, and in the spirit of the holiday season, the legendary performer is donating his royalties to charity.

A statement by Columbia Records says "Christmas in the Heart" will be released Oct. 13. Dylan's US royalties will go to the organization Feeding America. It's estimated that will help feed 1.4 million families during the holidays.

The 68-year-old singer says it's a "tragedy" that people go to bed hungry, and he hopes he can bring "food security" to people in need.

Dylan also plans to donate all his future international royalties to charities overseas.

NME.COM reported the singer as saying:

"It's a tragedy that more than 35 million people in this country alone - 12 million of those children - often go to bed hungry and wake up each morning unsure of where their next meal is coming from." He added: "I join the good people of Feeding America in the hope that our efforts can bring some food security to people in need during this holiday season."

According to NME.com, Christmas In The Heart' features covers including 'Winter Wonderland', 'Here Comes Santa Claus', 'Little Drummer Boy' and 'Must Be Santa'.