The studio guru (who has brought his touch to albums by TLC, Boyz II Men, Monica, Michael Jackson, Brandy, and others) will play a supporting role when twelve-year-old R&B phenom Sammie makes his network television debut on "The Tonight Show With Jay Leno" on February 28.

After the producer's camp spotted Sammie's performance on "Showtime At The Apollo," Austin took the pre-teen vocalist under his wing. Austin signed the singer to his Freeworld Records, whisked him into the studio, and produced his upcoming "From The Bottom To The Top" album, due March 14.

The young singer already has a hit to his credit, courtesy of his top-ten selling single "I Like It," which bears the sonic stamp of Austin.

In addition to his "Tonight Show" appearance, Sammie will also be seen on Nickelodeon and "Soul Train" in the coming weeks.