Leona was "scared" of Cowell

Leona Lewis has revealed that she was "scared" of Simon Cowell when she first met the X Factor judge.

However, since working closely with Cowell to launch her recording career, she has become fond of the music mogul, describing him as a "positive" influence on her life.

"I was quite scared of him and what he would say to me when X Factor began, but he's a really, really nice guy," Lewis told the New York Post. "He's helped me tremendously. He's taught me to be positive and allow my musical instincts to take over. And he's been very respectful in doing so."

Lewis also revealed that she found time for sightseeing while working hard to crack the States last month.

She said: "Going to the US was amazing. New York City is very similar to London, where I grew up. I love all the boutiques there. I also like Los Angeles. I can't get enough of all the beautiful beaches."