Katy Perry has said she would “rather die” than take a vow of celibacy.

The singer was quoted as saying this week that she had decided to give up kissing in 2009 following her split from Gym Class Heroes frontman Travis McCoy.

"I've actually taken a vow of celibacy this year. No kissing anyone. Just my cat: Kitty Purry,” she told America's TV Guide.

However, Perry told reporters yesterday (January 23rd) that her claim had been made in jest.

"I am not going to be celibate. That was a joke, and any fine journalist would have got that,” she said. "Please, celibacy for the whole year? I'd rather die."

Perry has yet to speak about her split from McCoy, which is understood to have taken place shortly before the New Year.

Meanwhile, Perry is due to release her new single, 'I'm Thinking Of You', on March 3rd.

(by Jason Gregory)