A stunning display of musical range by 10-year-old Maya Neelakandan captivated everyone during a recent "America's Got Talent" episode.
Maya's electrifying performance on an electric guitar, featuring "Last Resort" by Papa Roach, was the talk of the night.
Originally from India, young Maya started her audition with a slower, more melodic piece, only to surprise the judges and audience by switching to heavy metal, a genre known for its intense and potent sound, Fox News reported. This dramatic shift demonstrated her versatile guitar skills and her ability to confidently command the stage, seemingly beyond her years.
The panel of judges, consisting of Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum, and Howie Mandel, was visibly impressed by Maya's talent.
Sofia Vergara was astounded by Maya's presence, remarking on her confidence and the flawless nature of her performance. Heidi Klum echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the universal approval of everyone in the venue.
Simon Cowell, known for his critical eye, praised Maya for her unexpected transformation during the performance. He commented on her initial shyness, which quickly evolved into a commanding rock performance as soon as she struck the heavier chords.
The episode was full of surprises, most notably involving Simon Cowell's use of the Golden Buzzer. Breaking away from the show's norms, Simon activated the coveted buzzer not once but twice.
First, Cowell used it to applaud Chicago-based singer Liv Warfield, and later, a stunning drone light show performed by Sky Elements. This decision prompted a surprising rule change, allowing judges two Golden Buzzer opportunities each season from this point on. Cowell, confronted by a producer about his unprecedented move, simply stated, "It doesn't matter. I had to."
Regarding Maya's inspirations, she mentioned iconic guitarists Alex Jones from Tool and Gary Holt from Exodus and Slayer, hinting at her deep-rooted passion for metal music despite her young age.
"You know what I love about this audition? You just weren't expecting this. You were so shy, and you're 10! And then you turned into, like, this rock goddess," said Simon Cowell, reflecting his thoughts about Maya's standout moment. Cowell highlighted the impactful nature of her performance, suggesting it marked the beginning of a promising music career.
Howie Mandel, intrigued by Maya's onstage transformation, probed into her musical influences, which she eagerly shared with the audience.
As Maya continues to ride the wave of her successful "AGT" appearance, her future in music looks increasingly promising. Influenced by some of the biggest names in the metal genre, her audacious approach to the guitar and performance at such a tender age hints at the rise of a new star.
Maya's adept skill and the rule changes she inadvertently prompted signify this "America's Got Talent" episode as a historic moment both for the show and for the little girl who might just grow up to be a rock legend.
