Yes, you read right!
You may use any existing email and simply add Microsoft credentials to that account.
The Microsoft Account gives you access a bunch of features such as:
http://skydrive.com
http://outlook.com
http://xbox.com
Windows 8 Sync of settings
Windows 8 Store
+++

Step 1

Navigate here: http://skydrive.com

Step 2

Click link there

Takes you Here

Step 3

Where it says

“Navn på Microsoft-Konto”
Enter any email like

private@applecloud.com
private@gmail.com
private@yourdomain.com
student@office365domain.com
jobemail@yourcompany.com

Step 4

Confirm your email

Now you can enjoy all the features mentioned above including these features in Windows 8 found under
Settings->Change PC settings->Synchronize settings