Rebecca Caroline Ferguson (born 21 July 1986) is a British singer and songwriter. Ferguson came to prominence in 2010 when she became the runner-up of the seventh series of The X Factor. She subsequently signed a joint record deal with Syco and Epic Records in the UK. She later signed in the United States to Columbia Records. Ferguson's debut album, Heaven, was released in 2011 to commercial and critical success. It was co-written by Ferguson. The album is certified platinum in the UK and Ireland. She cites Aretha Franklin, Kings of Leon and Amy Winehouse among her influences. She has endorsements with Nescafé and Walkers.