The 'Bleeding Love' singer met her "all-time musical hero" at producer Clive Davis' Annual Grammy Party in Los Angeles last weekend, but could barely speak when she was introduced to her idol.
Leona Lewis was left "overwhelmed" when Whitney Houston said she was a "baby version" of herself.
The 'Bleeding Love' singer met her "all-time musical hero" at producer Clive Davis' Annual Grammy Party in Los Angeles last weekend, but could barely speak when she was introduced to her idol.
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!"
Leona sang her hit single 'Bleeding Love' and covered 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face' in front of a star-studded audience, which included Janet Jackson, Alicia Keys and Usher.
The British star admits she found the whole experience "surreal".
She said: "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!"
Clive - who chose Leona as his 'Special New Artist' guest, an honour previously bestowed upon Maroon 5 and Jennifer Hudson - said the 22-year-old star was the perfect choice to entertain his A-list guests.
He said: "Leona's range, her feel for music - it's clear she has the passion for music. A year ago, right here, we gathered the best writers and producers of the world. We had her sing in a living room of a suite and she floored them. It led to getting incredible material which has made up her album."
Leona Lewis
Whitney Houston
