AMERICAN IDOL - CLARKSON IMPRESSES HER IDOLS

AMERICAN IDOL star KELLY CLARKSON is delighted singing icons ARETHA FRANKLIN and MARIAH CAREY are huge fans of her second album BREAKAWAY.

The sexy singer is revelling in the praise she has been receiving from her childhood heroines, because it's an indication she is now recognised for her talent rather than winning the inaugural TV talent contest.

The 20-year-old says, "I heard that (they are fans of mine) and I couldn't believe it. That was freaking cool.

"I've been a huge fan of (Aretha Franklin) since I was little - so to know someone you've looked up to for years likes your stuff is amazing.

"I heard Mariah Carey recommended my album on her website and I was very excited about that. I'm a big fan of hers as well."