Leona Lewis has said she is proud that so many female artists have received nominations for the upcoming Grammy Awards - as it is "hard" for women to succeed in the music industry.

The singer will compete for three awards at the February ceremony, including Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance for Bleeding Love. Her debut LP, "Spirit", is also included in the Best Pop Vocal Album category.

While other female performers to garner nominations include fellow Brits Duffy and Adele, as well as Jennifer Hudson, Katy Perry, Pink, Sara Bareilles, Madonna, Jordin Sparks, Rihanna, Robyn, Kylie Minogue, M.I.A. and Jazmine Sullivan.

And Lewis is proud to see so many women on the shortlist.

She said: "I am so supportive of any artist but female artists in particular. It's a hard industry and so many people want the chance to live out what we are doing.

“I think that we have to support each other and flourish on it. It's great that so many women are coming out and being successful - so empowering!"

As previously reported, Lewis's cover of Snow Patrol's 'Run' this week became the fastest selling digital download ever in the UK.

(by Daniel Melia)