Oprah Winfrey's Leona praise

Mar 18, 2008, 7:35 GMT

Michelle Obama (L), wife of Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama, talks to Oprah Winfrey at a Get Out the Vote rally in Los Angeles, California USA on 03 February 2008. California is among the states holding its primary election on "Super Tuesday" 05 February 2008. EPA/PHIL MCCARTEN

Oprah Winfrey says Leona Lewis is going to take the US by storm.

The 'Bleeding Love' singer appeared on Oprah's US talk show yesterday (17.03.08) and blew the audience away with her amazing performance.

Afterwards, Oprah announced: "A star is born!"

Before appearing on the show, Leona - whose single 'Bleeding Love' is currently number one in the US iTunes singles chart - spoke of her excitement about meeting one of her idols.

She said: "I can't believe it really, I'm like, 'Oh my God!' "

Leona's debut album 'Spirit' is set for release in the US on April 8, complete with two new bonus tracks masterminded by Akon and Madd Scientist.

Earlier this year, Leona was left "overwhelmed" when Whitney Houston said she was a "baby version" of herself.

The British star met her "all-time musical hero" at producer Clive Davis' Annual Grammy Party in Los Angeles, but could barely speak when she was introduced to Whitney.

She said: "It was amazing, I got to meet my all-time musical hero Whitney Houston - who looked so incredible. Clive introduced us. I don't think I managed to say much though, I was overwhelmed!

"I was told afterwards that when I performed she had said to a friend at the record label, 'My God, she's a baby me!' Wow - what a huge compliment!"

(C) BANG Media International