The 23rd annual Bahrain International Music Festival opened this evening on a high note, hosting British singer, songwriter and actress Leona Lewis.
Culture Minister Shaikha Mai bint Mohammed Al-Khalifa attended the opening ceremony at the Bahrain National Theater.
This year, the popular annual showcase of musical innovators from around world is held under the Manama: Capital of Asian Tourism 2014 year-long celebrations.
Multi-platinum and award-winning singer songwriter Leona Lewis is known for her poise, persona, and a golden voice that inspired millions around the world and established her as a driving force within today’s music industry.
Lewis is famed for her incredible four octave mezzo-soprano vocal range – including a sharp falsetto register - which she delivers with remarkable power and impeccable technical control.
The former winner of X-Factor UK is the most successful female solo artist in UK chart history, with more Top 5 hits (eight) than any other British female recording artist in history.
She became the first female to top the Billboard 200 in more than 20 years. Her Grammy-nominated debut album Spirit sold more than 20 million copies worldwide and reached number 1 in over 30 countries, earning her instant superstar status.
She followed that up with the fastest selling record of 2007 and the best selling record of 2008. In addition to her chart-topping albums, she has won two MOBO Awards, two MTV Music Awards and two World Music Awards, and six BRIT Award nominations. She also penned and performed the theme to the blockbuster film Avatar ("I See You") in 2009.