Lady Gaga hides in hotel for several days as a surprise for her performance at the European Games

Azerbaijan - Singer Lady Gaga spent several days hiding in a hotel in Baku, Azerbaijan to keep her presence a secret before she performed at the European Games.

Performing the John Lennon song Imagine, Lady Gaga was a surprise addition to the programme for the inaugural games on Friday. Her participation was only revealed part-way through the two-hour show.

Catherine Ugwu, who co-ordinated the ceremony for games organisers, said they had to "work very hard on keeping it a secret" and that the singer "was kind enough to stay in a hotel and not move for several days".

Lady Gaga, who is known for her strong advocacy for gay rights, has faced criticism from some fans for performing in Azerbaijan, whose government has been widely criticized over its human rights record.

Watch the video of Lady Gaga performing at the opening ceremony: