George Michael - Singer/Songwriter
In this two-part series, Vicki Wickham, gets up close and personal with George Michael as she pops round his house for tea and biscuits following his 2011 orchestral show at London’s Royal Albert Hall.

This is the story of the tour and will take listeners behind the scenes as they hear from George himself, and some of the people who work closely with him, including his song-writing partner, David Austin, photographer and film-maker Caroline True, and producer Phil Ramone.

George talks openly about his prison experience and his drug rehabilitation and how one way of rewarding himself was by embarking on this orchestral Symphonica Tour of 2011 and 2012. He performed at many of Europe’s esteemed music venues, including the Paris Garnier Opera House and the State Opera House in Prague, playing selections of his own songs, as well as songs by some of his favourite artists, with music re-worked and re-arranged for a 40-piece orchestra.

Plus, listeners will hear some of the exclusive recordings of George singing with an orchestra for the Symphonica tour. Listen to BBC Radio 2 on Tuesday 18 March, 10.00 pm - 11.00 pm, for the 1st episode of 'Up Close With George Michael'. The 2nd episode of 'Up Close With George Michael' will air 25 March 10.00 pm - 11.00 pm.

Listen here to the episodes of 'Up Close With George Michael'. Available for 7 days after airing.