Leighton Meester

Leighton Meester

Gossip Girl star Leighton Meester has landed a recording contract just weeks after one of her songs leaked online.

The 23-year-old actress has been busy writing and recording material for her album in between takes on the hit U.S. show.

Meester's hard work has finally paid off - her song Birthday Girl has caught the attention of executives at Universal Republic Records after hitting the web earlier this month.

She tells FemaleFirst.com, "I’m thrilled to be welcomed into the Universal Republic fold. Their reputation for nurturing artists combined with a willingness to break new ground makes it the ultimate environment for me to enjoy making music and explore my own creative boundaries. I look forward to a great working relationship."

FemaleFirst - Ruth Harrison