Leona Lewis private gig nets big bucks

Mar 19, 2009, 9:55 GMT

02/07/2009 - Leona Lewis - The 23-year-old \'The X Factor\' winner performed seven songs - her longest concert to date - for Phones4U founder John Caudwell\'s daughter Libby and 200 of her friends at her 21st birthday bash on Saturday night (14.03.09). © Bob Charlotte / PR Photos

Leona Lewis was paid £1 million to sing at a billionaire's private party.

The 23-year-old 'The X Factor' winner performed seven songs - her longest concert to date - for Phones4U founder John Caudwell's daughter Libby and 200 of her friends at her 21st birthday bash on Saturday night (14.03.09).

Leona belted out a special rendition of 'Happy Birthday' and even let Libby join her on stage for a rendition of her biggest hit 'Bleeding Love'.

One guest told Britain's The Sun newspaper: "It was a night Libby will certainly never forget. It was like a dream. She has not stopped talking about it ever since.

"Libby knew something was going to happen, but she just couldn't believe it when Leona walked on the stage.

"Like most girls of her age, Libby is a massive fan of Leona. But most fans have to make do with listening to her tracks - not doing a duet with her."

The singing sensation - who won the British talent show in 2006 - had vowed not to do any live shows until next year so she can concentrate on her album, but music mogul Simon Cowell okayed the party at Caudwell's Eccleshall mansion.

A source revealed: "Leona was not supposed to do any live shows until next year, but she made an exception.

"It's a lot of money and was a great party, so it was fun being involved."

In the wake of her performance, hip-hop star Ne-Yo - who befriended Leona when she was in the US working on her debut album 'Spirit' - says she needs to start playing more concerts.

He said: "Leona is very shy, which could be a good or bad thing. In this business, people want to know you so you've got to be willing to give it.

"I hope she starts doing shows to build up her stage presence as it's something you have to train for."