Leon Jackson 'happy' with pub gigs

X Factor winner Leon Jackson has insisted that he is "happier than ever" after being dropped by his record company.

The Scottish singer has been concentrating on pub gigs since parting ways with Simon Cowell's SyCo label in March.

Most recently, the 20-year-old performed for a crowd of 30 fans at a small bar in Surrey, The Scotsman reports. It is believed that his supporters were charged a £4 entrance fee for the gig.

Jackson commented: "I am happier than ever. Gigs like this are great because I am getting the opportunity to showcase what I am doing.

"It is more challenging to play these venues because you are right in front of the audience - they can see every facial expression."

The talent show champ has been developing a new guitar-driven sound in recent months after teaming up with Paolo Nutini's co-writer Jim Duguid.