George Michael to release New Order charity cover

George Michael is releasing a new single, 'True Faith', for Comic Relief.

The 'Carless Whisper' singer has recorded a version the 1987 New Order single for the UK charity, the proceeds of which will go to helping the non profit organisation's work in Africa and the UK.

Director Richard Curtis - who co-founded the charity - said: "He's giving Comic Relief all the money from his new single, 'True Faith'.

"It's always so moving when people stick with us year after year - and we're thrilled and delighted about the song, and the wonderful video that goes with it.

"We promise we'll use every penny we make from it to save and change lives in Africa and all over the UK."

George - who spent a month in jail last year for driving while under the influence of drugs - last released a song in 2008, a Christmas themed track called 'December Song'.

Recently he was linked to a role in the US version of Simon Cowell's talent TV show 'The X Factor', and it was thought he was keen to use the job as a way of getting back in the spotlight.

A source said: "It's an amazing opportunity to get back in the limelight and reverse his recent bad spell. Simon knows that Americans love him. He is as big in the US as he is over here in the UK."