Star drummer appears on national US morning shows

A teenage musician has flown to New York for the first time to appear on several national morning television shows.

Nandi Bushell, from Ipswich in Suffolk, took the trip as part of promotion for her new book that aims to inspire children to take up the drums.

The 14-year-old, who shot to fame with her hugely popular YouTube drumming videos, has appeared on Good Morning America and CBS Mornings as well doing a book signing and Q&A at a Barnes & Noble bookstore in the city.

Speaking prior to the trip, Nandi and her dad, John Bushell, said they were "really excited" for what was to come.

"It's my first time going to New York but I've been to LA a few times," explained Nandi.

"Everyone in America is quite friendly and everywhere you go they are really nice.

"I'm really excited just to promote my book and inspire everyone to start playing the drums - that's what my book is about.

"It's about my journey and I hope it will inspire young kids to start playing an instrument."

During Nandi's appearance on CBS Mornings, she was surprised by a video of American singer Willow Smith - daughter of film star Will Smith - who offered to work with Nandi in the future.

In her video, Smith said Nandi had "inspired her" and she could "not wait to jam and make music together".

It left the Suffolk drummer speechless and she added later on social media it was "the best surprise ever".

Nandi was also given the opportunity to go to Electric Lady Studios - founded by guitar legend Jimi Hendrix - to play drums and write new music.

Mr Bushell said he expected New York "to be an incredible experience".

"These opportunities that come Nandi's way are absolutely amazing - wonderful life opportunities for her," he explained.

"There have been so many 'pinch me' moments on Nandi's journey - from playing outside Buckingham Palace to playing at Wembley Stadium and going on a 30-night UK arena tour.

"To now have a published book all by the age of 14, you couldn't write it. It's too unreal."

Nandi's new book titled The Life Changing Magic of Drumming is due to be released on 13 August in the UK.

In the US it is already available and has become a best seller on Amazon.

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