A Southampton-based musician made a guest appearance on BBC One's new TV show called "I'm with the Band", which has impressed UK audiences.

Musician Sophie Burrell joined famous artists such as Gary Barlow, James Bay, Jamie Cullum, Tom Fletcher, Mica Paris, Dayna Fisher, Don Hepburn, Guy Chambers, Lily Carassik, and Yasmin Ogilvie.

Sophie and the rest of the cast members started recording the episode last year in March and it was aired in June.

Sophie said: "One day, out of the blue, I received an email from the casting team. I thought it was a fake and very strange email as there was not a lot of information.

"However, after endless phone calls and emails, the team finally told me that Gary Barlow had come across my social media and would love to have me on the show.

At I'm with the Band, Gary Barlow brings together a top group of artists and musicians to perform classic songs from the past and present. Mr. Barlow is well-known in the industry for providing young talent with exposure and a platform to showcase their abilities.

Sophie added: "I thought it was an insane opportunity for any artist, and it would be a shame to miss it. I still can't believe that I got to meet and perform with such well established and famous musicians. It was a dream come true for me."

Ms. Burrell started playing the guitar and receiving vocal lessons at the age of 9 after watching the movie School of Rock. The movie inspired her to take up music as a career, and since then, the 21- year-old has not looked back.

During the lockdown, Ms. Burrell kept herself busy by teaching guitar lessons online. She told the Daily Echo: "I had a lot going on during the lockdown.

"I was trying to build an online social media presence, writing some songs with close friends and teaching guitar online.

"Surprisingly, my business did well, and things are progressing perfectly with my future projects."

Before making her debut on National TV, Sophie had done multiple gigs at The Joiners in Southampton. "I enjoy playing music at local venues. People in Southampton are always so nice and supportive. "

Ms. Burnell revealed that she has been working on a new album with a close friend from Manchester. The recording for the album is due to take place once the band lineup is confirmed. She hopes to release the album next year and wishes to gain support from local and national fans.