Judging the 'new Amy's'

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."

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.

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.

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.