Joss Stone has revealed that she turned down an offer to appear as a guest judge on American Idol.

The 19-year-old singer was invited on to the show by Simon Cowell but refused because she is opposed to the "cruel" nature of TV talent searches.

"I find these shows far too cruel," Joss told The People. "Music should be allowed to develop naturally."

Stone's third album Introducing Joss Stone is released in March.