"TwentyFive," a George Michael [ tickets ] best-of set that surfaced in the performer's homeland back in 2006, will hit US shelves next month, and the veteran singer will back the release with a lengthy North American summer tour.

Due in stores April 1, the 29-song, two-disc "TwentyFive" compilation comprises hits spanning Michael's career, as well as six new songs, including duets with Mary J. Blige and Paul McCartney. A companion two-disc DVD housing 40 videos is also in the pipeline, according to a press release.

Michael has set a mid-June launch date for his North American roadwork behind the set, which will mark his first tour of the continent in 17 years. The run kicks off June 17 in San Diego and works its way east, with stops planned in 20 cities by the time things wrap up in early August. Details are included below.

In addition to catching him live during the upcoming run, Michael fans can also glimpse the singer on the ABC drama/comedy "Eli Stone." Michael makes his acting debut on the March 27 edition of the series, each episode of which is titled after one of his songs.

Michael's European tour in support of "TwentyFive" comprised 80 shows spread across 12 countries that drew 1.3 million fans, according to a press release. Dubbed the "25 LIVE" tour, the run broke several ticket-sales records, most notably in Copenhagen, where the singer sold over 50,000 tickets to his show at The Parken Stadium; U2 had held the venue's record previously.