George Michael soaks rich Russian

Jan 3, 2007, 12:10 GMT

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George Michael was paid £1.7 million for a 75 minute private concert.

The singer performed 13 songs at Russian billionaire Vladimir Potanin's New Year's Eve party on Sunday (31.12.06).

Michael - accompanied by his lover Kenny Goss and a 40-strong entourage - was flown to Moscow by private jet to perform in front of 250 guests at Potanin's 20 acre estate.

Potanin, who is the ninth richest man in Russia, is said to have personally asked Michael to perform and paid him in cash.

A source told Britain's Daily Mail newspaper: "This was a private closed party only for the closest friends of Mr Potanin. There were a lot of officials and wealthy Russian individuals.

"Michael left the venue at about 6am and flew straight back to London on his own private charter jet. It is always more convenient to deal in cash and George seems to be happy with that arrangement.”

The huge fee - which works out at £23,823 a minute - is said to be the largest sum paid to an artist for a single performance.

The lavish party overran meaning Michael, 43, didn't take to the stage until 3am.

Michael, Goss and his band and crew members stayed in suites at two of Moscow's top hotels.

The 'Fast Love' singer isn't the only musician to make a fortune from private performances.

The Rolling Stones were paid a total of £4.4 million for playing at the 60th birthday of billionaire David Bonderman.

Destiny's Child performed at the Bar Mitzvah of Brandon Green, son of retail tycoon Philip Green, for £1.5 million, while Elton John picked up £1.5 million for performing at Peter Shalson's wedding.

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