DUBLIN X-Factor hopeful Azi Jegbefume has received the ultimate vote of confidence -- from none other than U2 rock-star Bono.

The Kandy Rain singer first met the Dublin star when she was just 18 and was appearing on RTE reality show, You're a Star.

At the time Azi revealed how she introduced herself to the Dubliner at Grafton Street celebrity haunt, Lillie's Bordello, where she said they bonded over their shared love of music.

Bono later promised to show his support for the ambitious teen by voting for her on the programme, even claiming that he would make an exception and watch the show to see her performance.

And now that the mega-star has learned of Azi's success in the hit ITV series -- he is keen to show his support once more.

The world-renowned Vertigo singer is said to have heard of the Tallaght native's success from across the pond, where he and his band-mates are currently in Canada with their 360 tour.

"Bono is a big supporter of Azi's and is delighted that she's still following her music dreams all these years later," said an insider.

"He's in the States and Canada on tour at the moment, but he heard about her getting into the X-Factor when he was home for Andrea Corr's wedding last month and has wished her well."

Meanwhile Azi's brother, Fair City actor, Yare told the Herald that his sister was delighted by this latest boost.

He said: "It's super. She's a massive fan of Bono's and I know she sang a capella for him when she met him during You're A Star.

"She loves her new fame. Every time she goes outside the door there are paparazzi waiting for her.

"I'm starting work on a new show next month so I will have to fly over for the day if she gets through to the final."

Yare is set to join the 20-year-old Carrigstown soap next month and will play the part of a social worker.

Tonight will mark the 100th episode of the X Factor and Azi (25) and her band-mates, Khatereh Dovani, Coco Lloyd and Chemmane Applewhaite, are set to send pulses racing tonight when they perform a risque set.

The girls have already been dubbed the next Pussycat Dolls -- and reportedly even managed to leave X-Factor boss, Simon Cowell speechless when they arrive in their PVC outfits.

Teenagers John Paul and Edwards Grimes (17) are also flying the flag for Dublin after making it through the boot camp stage of the show.

lnolan@herald.ie

- Lorna Nolan