Jessie J has been named winner of the Critics Choice prize at next year's Brit Awards.

The UK singer and songwriter has been picked by an industry panel as the recipient of the award, which is annually given to one act who is strongly tipped for mainstream success in the next year.

'Do It Like A Dude' singer Jessie - real name Jessica Cornish - grew up in Essex, south east England but found initial success in the US, co-writing tracks for artists including Miley Cyrus, Chris Brown and Justin Timberlake before launching her own singing career.

Upon hearing the news, Jessie tweeted: "This is epic! It has been a dream since I was a little girl to win a BRIT. I can't believe it's happened.

"I WON!!! Omg omg omg omg omg, Arghhhhh!!! Omg!!! I'm in shock and I'm tears!!! (sic)"

Jessie has also been listed by the BBC, Osberver newspaper and MTV as a new artist to watch in 2011, whereas past recipients of the Critics Choice prize have included Ellie Goulding and Florence and the Machine, both of whom have gone on to have number one albums in the UK.

Jessie will perform at the launch of the BRIT Awards nominations on January 13, and the awards ceremony will follow on February 25.