JUDGING THE 'NEW AMYS'
Amy Winehouse was so last year. Britain is teeming with young female R&B-tinged singers trying to be this year's model in the United States.
ADELE
Bio: Adele Laurie Blue Adkins, 20, is a graduate of the Brit School for the Performing Arts.
Sound: Her big, killer voice suggests a cross between Etta James and Annie Lennox.
Hot song: "Chasing Pavements."
DUFFY
Bio: Aimee Ann Duffy, 24, got her break on the Welsh equivalent of "American Idol."
Sound: At her best, she evokes 1960s blue-eyed soul with a strong voice.
Hot song: "Mercy."
ESTELLE
Bio: Fanta Estelle Swaray, 28, of West London is being groomed by U.S. R&B star John Legend.
Sound: Her seamless mix of soul and hip-hop (with a little reggae and pop) has led to favorable comparisons to Lauryn Hill.
Hot song: "American Boy" featuring Kanye West.
LEONA LEWIS
Bio: Another Brit School grad, the 23-year-old won Britain's "X Factor" and Simon Cowell immediately took charge of her career.
Sound: With her huge Mariah Carey-like voice, she brings warmth and range to conventional middle-of-the-road pop.
Hot song: "Bleeding Love."
JON BREAM