People News

Leona Lewis' Presidential performance

Nov 24, 2008, 9:15 GMT

11/23/2008 - Leona Lewis - The British singer is set to sing at the ceremony ushering in the new US President in Washington DC on January 20 next year.USA © Albert L. Ortega / PR Photos

Leona Lewis is in talks to perform at Barack Obama's inauguration ceremony.

The British singer is set to sing at the ceremony ushering in the new US President in Washington DC on January 20 next year.

A source close to Leona told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "Various inquiries have been made to Leona's people about her availability on January 20.

"She's had such a successful past year that joining in the festivities in Washington would be the icing on the cake for her. Her team are going through her diary at the moment."

Beyonce Knowles and her rapper husband Jay-Z have already been confirmed for the event, which is expected to see a million people converge on the nation's capital.

Leona was full of praise for Obama just before he won the presidential election earlier this month and made history by becoming the first ever black President of the US.

She said: "I think Obama is amazing. He's just so cool and articulate. Nothing fazes him. It would mean everything for ethnic minorities in that country and every country around the world to have a mixed-race leader of America."

Leona has enjoyed worldwide success since winning UK TV talent show 'The X Factor' in 2006.

The 23-year-old singer's track 'Bleeding Love' went to number one in both the UK and the US, making her the first British female solo artist to do so for over 20 years. Her debut album 'Spirit' also made the top spot in the US charts.

'Spirit' is available now in a repackaged edition featuring her version of the Snow Patrol song 'Run'.