George Michael has revealed that age was behind his decision to end his touring career.

The singer, now 45, said that he was seeking “a quieter life” and that “pop music should be about youth culture”.

"It shouldn't be an endurance test," he told the BBC.

The singer announced yesterday that two shows in London, dubbed 'The Final Two', will officially bring the curtain down on his full time career.

The shows at Earls Court will officially end his 25 Live Tour, which began in Barcelona in 2006 and will call in America before arriving in London.

A statement on the singer's website said the “very special shows will naturally feature Michael's hits, some tracks not previously performed in Britain, and a stunning new stage set."

Although the shows will end Michael's touring career, he is still expected to play one off performances in the future.

(by Jason Gregory)