WHEN you are a 15-year-old musician looking to make a breakthrough it helps if you have someone at your side who has been at the top of the industry.

So Sophie Morgan is understandably thrilled that a chance meeting with Simon Jones, The Verve’s bass player, led to him producing her four-track EP, which is released next month.

The Tower College student’s musical career started to flourish about a year ago when she won a Counting Crows cover contest, which was judged by the American band.

However her biggest break came last year when she performed at a wedding. Impressed by her musical ability, Simon Jones, who was a guest, approached Sophie and invited her to visit his studios the following week.

Since then Sophie has developed her skill and become an accomplished guitarist, pianist and vocalist, which led her into live performances around Warrington and Chester.

Jumping at the opportunity to work with someone of Jones’ expertise, she took the trip to Faktory Studios, were she was overwhelmed by the response to her original songs.

Jones offered to mentor the Rainhill teenager, and became the producer and bass player on her new four-track EP, which is set to be released on iTunes and Spotify next month.

Sophie told the Star: “Working with world-class musician Si Jones is such an incredible experience and a real honour.

“I admire what he has achieved, and to have him as my mentor is so inspiring.

“I still struggle to comprehend that Si, who has headlined Glastonbury, is recording, producing and playing on my songs.

“This past year has been unbelievable. I have loved hearing my songs come to life in the studio, alongside Si, and performing them live at various gigs.

“Winning the Counting Crows competition was a real highlight for me, something I will never forget.”

Sophie is looking for other musicians to record and play live with on a planned summer tour next year.

Simon Jones will be conducting auditions for Sophie’s band, which is looking for a lead guitarist, bassist and drummer.

If you’re a talented musician between the age of 16 and 24 contact Sophie on her website sophiemorganmusic.com.