Even pop stars have their idols, andBritney Spearsis no different.

Unsurprisingly,Whitney Houstonwas a major influence on the singer as she started out.

“I was maybe 17-years-old,” she told Access Hollywood (viaYouTube).

Britney Spears at an event

“I just remember being so excited!

I was just like, ‘Oh my God, it’s Whitney Houston, oh God!’

I was really excited,” the singer added.

Whitney Houston on stage

She’s just someone I really admire."

And it seems Houston had an affinity with Spears, too.