Footprints in the Sand by Simon Cowell

Who knew Simon Cowell was a songwriter? And a songwriter who writes moving lyrics, at that?

This bit of info was revealed on American Idol tonight, when season nine hopeful Jessica Furney chose to sing "Footprints in the Sand". It turns out Simon was a cowriter on "Footprints In the Sand," which was recorded by his protege Leona Lewis.

The "Footprints in the Sand" lyrics include:

You walked with me, footprints in the sand
And helped me understand where I'm going
You walked with me when I was all alone
With so much I know along the way
Then I heard you say

I promise you, I'm always there
When your heart is filled with sorrow and despair
I'll carry you when you need a friend
You'll find my footprints in the sand

Aww. Like Simon cockily said himself, "It's a beautiful song."

Photo by Chris Jackson/Getty Images