I did not use Olympic show to promote new single, says George Michael

London, August 15 (ANI): George Michael has hit back at critics who said that he used the Olympics closing ceremony to promote his new single.

The 'Careless Whisper' hitmaker, who nearly died of pneumonia last year, tweeted that he didn't regret it and he was "not bothered" by suggestions that he acted inappropriately.

The popstar had raised quiet a few eyebrows during the showpiece event when he performed his new track 'White Light' when other artists were drawing on their biggest hits for the music spectacular, being viewed around the world.

The track was his first new material, since he was fighting for his life late last year after contracting pneumonia, and was inspired to write by his health woes.

Michael's performance on Sunday marked his return to the stage after being in hospital for several weeks in Vienna as a result of the illness.

But six minutes after the song went out on TV, his publicist released a statement about the new track and where people could buy it from.

The decision and the choice of song for the occasion have both been widely criticised on the internet forums.

"Had a great time at the closing! I hope you are not bothered by the press reports of my scandalous 'promotion,'" the Mirror quoted him as tweeting.

"Please join me in telling them to f*** off.

"It was my one chance on TV to thank you all for your loyalty and prayers, and I took it. And I don't regret it," he wrote.

Michael's use of the Olympic event seems to have paid dividends as he looks likely to register his first top 10 hit for eight years when the Official Charts Company unveils the next singles chart at the weekend. (ANI)