Susan Boyle takes chart crown again

Singing sensation Susan Boyle became the first female artist to have a number one album in the United States and UK twice in less than a year simultaneously, her record company said.

Her album The Gift reached number one in the UK on Sunday, and took the top spot across the Atlantic today.

It comes after her debut album I Dreamed A Dream achieved the same success following its release last year.

The only other acts to have achieved this in the history of music were The Monkees in 1967 and the Beatles in 1969, Sony said.

Susan Boyle said: "I've never felt happier in all my life. This is an amazing result and one I never expected."

The Scot was catapulted from obscurity to global stardom after appearing on last year's Britain's Got Talent contest.

The singer, from West Lothian, became an international star after her performance of I Dreamed A Dream from the musical Les Miserables stunned the audience and judges on the ITV1 show.

Britain's Got Talent judge Simon Cowell said: "I'm thrilled for Susan, she has once again defied the odds. She is my superwoman."

In 2009 I Dreamed A Dream became the biggest selling album in the world and fastest selling in the history of the charts - with more than 10 million copies sold - and breaking all pre-order sales records on Amazon.

The Gift was released last Monday.

Steve Barnett, Chairman of Columbia Records said: "The overwhelming positive response to Susan's new album is a powerful testament to her unique talent.

"She's able to touch the hearts of her fans around the world who continue to show their loyal support and devotion."