Leona Lewis is one of the most gifted vocalists to emerge from the United Kingdom in the 21st century. Since winning The X Factor in 2006, her voice has captivated millions across the globe, making her one of the best-selling British artists of all time. If you are looking for the greatest songs from her catalog, this list covers everything from her record-breaking debut singles to her most recent releases — a true celebration of musical brilliance that belongs on every playlist.
Whether you are a longtime fan or just discovering her music for the first time, exploring the best Leona Lewis songs is a journey through raw emotion, stunning vocal range, and timeless pop artistry. We have carefully selected 20 tracks that define her legacy, spanning multiple albums and eras, including some of her newest material. You can also explore more iconic songs across every genre on GlobalMusicVibe to keep your music journey going.
A Brief Look at Leona Lewis’s Legacy
Born in Hackney, London in 1985, Leona Lewis first rose to fame after winning the third series of The X Factor in 2006, becoming one of the most successful alumni of the show in music history. Her debut album Spirit, released in 2007, went on to sell over seven million copies worldwide, spawning multiple number-one singles and earning her prestigious award nominations across the globe. Her studio albums — from Spirit to Echo and I Am — have each pushed the boundaries of pop and soul while incorporating R&B, gospel, and cinematic influences. Beyond her studio work, Leona is also known for her powerful live performances and her growing presence in musical theatre, including her acclaimed run in Cats on Broadway and in London’s West End, cementing her status as one of Britain’s most versatile entertainers.
Bleeding Love
“Bleeding Love” is without question one of the most defining pop singles of the 2000s, and it remains Leona Lewis’s signature track to this day. Released from her debut album Spirit in 2007, the song reached number one in over 35 countries and became one of the best-selling singles of that year worldwide. Written by Ryan Tedder and Jesse McCartney, the track showcases Leona’s extraordinary ability to convey heartbreak and longing with an effortless vocal power that few artists can match. Its soaring chorus and emotional depth made it an instant classic, earning multiple award nominations and cementing Leona’s place in global pop music history.
A Moment Like This
Originally performed as her X Factor winner’s single, “A Moment Like This” was a powerful introduction to the world of what Leona Lewis was capable of delivering. The song broke UK chart records upon its release, selling over 50,000 copies in just 30 minutes — a record at the time — and debuted at number one on the UK Singles Chart. It is an emotionally charged ballad that speaks to once-in-a-lifetime experiences and the joy of reaching one’s dreams, perfectly aligned with the story of her meteoric rise. The song remains a fan favorite and a staple of her live performances, drawing enormous crowd reactions every time she performs it.
Run
Leona’s cover of Snow Patrol’s “Run” became one of the most celebrated renditions of that beloved song, proving that she could take an already iconic track and elevate it into something entirely her own. Her version was included on Spirit and reached number one on the UK Singles Chart, introducing the song to a massive new generation of listeners who may not have been familiar with the original. The arrangement she performs strips back the rock instrumentation slightly to bring her vocals front and center, creating a deeply intimate listening experience that is both haunting and uplifting. It stands as a testament to her skill as an interpreter of songs, not just a performer of pop material.
Better In Time
“Better In Time” is a deeply heartfelt anthem about healing and moving on after a painful breakup, and it resonated with audiences around the world when it was released as a double A-side alongside “Bleeding Love” in many markets. The track showcases a slightly more soulful side of Leona’s vocal delivery, with an R&B-influenced production that gave it a fresh, distinct sound compared to her other ballads on Spirit. It reached the top five in the United Kingdom and performed exceptionally well on international charts, further establishing Leona as a global pop force to be reckoned with. The song’s message of resilience and self-worth has kept it relevant and beloved among fans for well over a decade.
Here I Am
“Here I Am” is a mid-tempo gem from Spirit that often gets overlooked in favor of the album’s massive singles, yet it remains one of the most emotionally rich tracks Leona has ever recorded. The song speaks to themes of vulnerability and the courage it takes to open yourself up to another person, delivered with a vocal nuance and restraint that demonstrates just how much control she has over her instrument. Its production is warm and layered, providing a lush backdrop that complements the intimacy of the lyrics beautifully. For fans who want to go deeper into the Spirit era, this track is an essential listen.
Happy
From her second studio album Echo, “Happy” marked a subtle but meaningful evolution in Leona’s artistry, with a more contemporary pop-soul production style that felt fresh and forward-looking at the time of its release. The song reflects on the complicated feelings that come with the end of a relationship, exploring the bittersweet emotion of wishing someone well even after a painful split. It was well received by critics who praised the sophistication of its arrangement and the emotional maturity in Leona’s performance, and it performed well commercially in the UK and internationally. “Happy” remains one of the standout tracks of the Echo era and a song that fans consistently return to.
I Will Be
“I Will Be” is a powerful and uplifting ballad from Spirit that speaks to themes of determination, loyalty, and unconditional support between two people. Leona’s vocal delivery on this track is particularly impressive, demonstrating her ability to build from a tender, controlled opening to a full, expansive vocal performance by the song’s climax. The production is elegant and cinematic, giving the track a grandeur that makes it feel like it belongs on a movie soundtrack. It has remained a fan favorite over the years and is frequently cited as one of the hidden gems of her debut album.
One More Sleep
Released as part of her holiday album Christmas, with Love, “One More Sleep” became a modern Christmas classic and one of the most successful festive singles in UK chart history. The song is an irresistibly catchy, retro-tinged Christmas pop track that channels the nostalgic sounds of classic holiday music while feeling entirely contemporary and fresh. It reached number three on the UK Singles Chart and has re-entered the charts multiple times in subsequent years, cementing its status as a perennial seasonal favorite. For many fans, it represents a different and thoroughly delightful side of Leona’s musical personality.
The Best You Never Had
“The Best You Never Had” is a confident and empowering track from Spirit that finds Leona addressing a former lover from a place of strength and self-assurance. The song’s upbeat production and assertive lyrical stance offered a refreshing counterpoint to the more vulnerable ballads on the album, showing that she could deliver attitude and confidence just as convincingly as heartbreak and longing. It was praised for its anthemic quality and strong vocal performance, and it resonated particularly well with audiences who appreciated its message of moving on and recognizing one’s own worth. The track remains one of the most energetic and feel-good moments in her entire catalog.
Yesterday
Another standout track from Spirit, “Yesterday” is a reflective and melancholic ballad that examines the complex emotions surrounding lost love and the difficulty of letting go of the past. Leona’s vocal performance is restrained and deeply expressive, drawing the listener into the emotional narrative with remarkable subtlety and sensitivity. The production is understated and elegant, allowing her voice to serve as the primary focus throughout the track without unnecessary ornamentation. It is the kind of song that reveals new layers with each listen, rewarding the attentive listener with a deeply moving experience.
Collide
Released from the Collide EP, this track represented a bold step toward a more mainstream pop and electronic sound for Leona, collaborating with Swedish DJ and producer Avicii on the production. The song blends her powerful vocals with a driving electronic backdrop, creating an energetic and danceable track that stood apart from much of her previous work while still showcasing the vocal talent she is known for. It was a commercial success and introduced her to a new audience of pop and electronic music fans who may not have connected with her earlier ballad-heavy material. “Collide” demonstrated Leona’s willingness to evolve as an artist and experiment with different sonic territories.
Love Song to the Earth
“Love Song to the Earth” is a remarkable collaboration featuring Leona alongside a host of other major artists, released to mark the United Nations climate change conference and raise awareness about environmental issues. The song carries a deeply meaningful message about the importance of protecting our planet, and its production reflects a sense of sweeping, cinematic urgency that matches the gravity of its subject matter. Leona’s contribution to the track is particularly memorable, with her powerful vocal blending beautifully with the ensemble cast to create something genuinely moving and purposeful. It stands as one of the most socially conscious recordings in her career and a reminder that great music can serve an important purpose beyond entertainment.
I See You
Written for James Cameron’s groundbreaking film Avatar, “I See You” is a lush, orchestral pop song that perfectly captures the wonder and emotional grandeur of the film it accompanies. The song was performed by Leona for the film’s end credits and received widespread critical acclaim, earning a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song — a remarkable achievement that underscored her standing as a world-class vocal talent. Its production combines organic orchestral elements with subtle electronic textures, creating a sound that feels both timeless and futuristic. For fans of film music and pop alike, this track is an absolute essential.
Take a Bow
“Take a Bow” appears on Spirit and is a richly emotional ballad that deals with themes of disillusionment and the painful realization that a relationship has run its course. Leona’s vocal performance on the track is nuanced and powerful, moving through the song’s emotional arc with the kind of authenticity that makes her one of the most compelling singers of her generation. The production is warm and cinematic, providing a dramatic backdrop that enhances the intensity of the performance without ever overwhelming it. It is a deeply satisfying album cut that rewards listeners who take the time to explore beyond her well-known singles.
Whatever It Takes
Another emotionally resonant track from Spirit, “Whatever It Takes” is a declaration of commitment and devotion that finds Leona at her most vulnerable and sincere. The song’s production is lush and sweeping, building to a powerful climax that allows her to demonstrate the full range and strength of her extraordinary voice. It is the kind of ballad that showcases everything that made her debut album such a massive commercial and critical success, combining strong songwriting with a vocal performance that is truly exceptional. Fans of classic pop balladry will find much to love in this beautifully crafted track.
I to You
From her third studio album Glassheart, “I to You” represents one of the most mature and sophisticated moments in Leona’s discography, featuring a layered production and a vocal delivery that demonstrates real artistic growth. The album Glassheart was widely regarded as a creative turning point for Leona, and this track encapsulates why — it is ambitious, beautifully constructed, and emotionally complex in a way that her earlier material, while brilliant, had not always aimed for. The song’s lyrics explore themes of deep romantic connection with intelligence and nuance, matching the sophistication of the music itself. It remains one of the most rewarding deep cuts in her entire catalog for fans willing to explore beyond her biggest hits.
Lovebird
Also from Glassheart, “Lovebird” is a gorgeous, atmospheric track that further illustrates the sonic ambitions of that era of Leona’s career. Its production is rich and carefully constructed, featuring a blend of organic and electronic elements that creates a dreamy, immersive listening environment perfectly suited to her voice. The song is a testament to the creative experimentation that defined the Glassheart period, and it rewards listeners with a depth and complexity that becomes richer with each return visit. It is a prime example of why that album, despite being commercially challenging, is deeply appreciated by her most dedicated fans.
Forgiveness
“Forgiveness” is a quietly devastating track from Spirit that deals with the painful process of letting go of anger and choosing compassion over resentment. The song’s understated production and intimate vocal delivery make it one of the most personal-feeling moments on the album, as though Leona is sharing something deeply private with the listener rather than performing for a crowd. Its message is both challenging and ultimately uplifting, making it one of the most emotionally layered tracks she has ever released. For those seeking the most moving and introspective moments in her catalog, this track is essential listening.
Fire Under My Feet
Released from her fourth studio album I Am, “Fire Under My Feet” marked a new chapter in Leona’s career with a more stripped-back, organic sound that felt like a return to her musical roots while simultaneously pointing in an exciting new direction. The song is a confident, soulful anthem about self-renewal and the determination to keep moving forward no matter what obstacles stand in your way. It was praised by critics for its honesty and emotional clarity, and it resonated with fans who had followed her journey through the various phases of her career. The track demonstrated conclusively that Leona Lewis remained a vital and relevant artistic force years after her initial breakthrough.
I Got You
Rounding out our list is “I Got You,” a warm and reassuring track that encapsulates the comforting, uplifting energy that Leona brings to her best work. The song is built around a message of mutual support and connection, delivered with the kind of genuine warmth and sincerity that has always been one of her greatest strengths as a performer. Its production is bright and accessible, making it one of the most immediately appealing tracks from the Glassheart era, and it stands as a perfect example of her ability to communicate deep emotion through deceptively simple, beautifully executed pop music. For the best listening experience, consider pairing her music with a great pair of earbuds or premium headphones — her vocal range truly shines with high-quality audio equipment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Leona Lewis’s most famous song?
Leona Lewis’s most famous song is widely considered to be “Bleeding Love,” released in 2007 from her debut album Spirit. The track reached number one in over 35 countries and became one of the best-selling singles of that year, cementing her status as a global pop superstar. It remains her signature song and the track most closely associated with her name and legacy.
How many studio albums has Leona Lewis released?
Leona Lewis has released five studio albums to date: Spirit (2007), Echo (2009), Glassheart (2012), I Am (2015), and Christmas, with Love Always (2022), along with her earlier holiday album Christmas, with Love (2013). Each album has showcased different facets of her artistry, from mainstream pop balladry to more experimental sounds and seasonal material. Her discography continues to grow as she remains active as a recording and performing artist.
Has Leona Lewis won a Grammy Award?
While Leona Lewis has received Grammy nominations throughout her career, she has not won a Grammy Award. However, she has received numerous other prestigious accolades, including BRIT Award nominations, MTV Europe Music Awards, and a Golden Globe nomination for Best Original Song for “I See You” from the film Avatar. She is widely recognized as one of the most gifted vocal talents in contemporary British music.
Is Leona Lewis still making music?
Yes, Leona Lewis remains active as a recording artist and performer. She has continued to release new music and has also expanded into other areas of entertainment, including acting in stage productions such as the Broadway and West End musical Cats. Fans who want to stay updated on her latest releases should follow her official channels and streaming platforms where her newest material is regularly made available.
What makes Leona Lewis’s voice so distinctive?
Leona Lewis possesses a soprano voice with an extraordinary range that allows her to effortlessly transition from tender, intimate passages to soaring, powerful climaxes. Her technical precision is matched by a remarkable ability to convey genuine emotion, making every performance feel deeply personal and authentic. Music lovers and audio enthusiasts alike will appreciate her voice even more when listening through a quality pair of earbuds or premium headphones that can capture the full spectrum and texture of her vocal delivery.
Where can I discover more great songs like Leona Lewis’s?
If you enjoy Leona Lewis’s music and want to discover more incredible artists and songs across all genres, be sure to explore our full songs category here on GlobalMusicVibe, where we regularly feature curated lists, artist spotlights, and deep dives into the best music being made around the world today. From pop to electronic, soul to classical, there is always something new to discover for every type of music fan.