The Rolling Stones have been revealed as the world's highest paid private performers, receiving a staggering £3.5million per private performance.

While researching her new book 'Pop Babylon', author Imogen Edward-Jones made the stunning discovery about the band fronted by Sir Mick Jagger.

They command millions more for private performances than Sir Elton John, Robbie Williams, Rod Stewart and Amy Winehouse, who all pocket around £1 million per private show.

£500,000 will buy you a private show from either Janet Jackson or the Pussycat Dolls for the night, and Sting, the Sugababes and All Saints all charge £250,000 to play at parties. The list is rounded off by Girls Aloud, who charge an astonishing £200,000.

Imogen writes "No wonder the market is expanding rapidly with indie acts and young pop stars offering themselves up to the highest bidder.

"Even old favourites such as Rick Astley and Human League have dusted themselves off and are available for weddings and bar mitzvahs. So no matter how big or small your budget, there appears to be a band to suit!"