Whitney HoustonX Factor winner Leona Lewis has said she’s over the moon that Whitney Houston is a fan of her music.

After a number one single and album on their release in the UK last year, Leona is set to launch herself in the US over the next few months and sang at music mogul Clive Davis’ pre-Grammy party over the weekend.

Guests at the event included Rihanna, Fergie and Alicia Keys but Leona was most delighted about meeting Whitney: “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!”

“It’s been almost surreal and feels just so wonderful that I performed in front of so many people I admire - especially that Whitney even knows who I am and said that about me when I’ve been such a fan all these years!”