During the latest episode of America’s Got Talent, young Maya Neelakantan, a 10-year-old guitar prodigy from India, left both the judges and the audience speechless with her electrifying performance. Neelakantan took the stage and delivered an impressive rendition of Papa Roach’s hit song, “Last Resort,” showcasing her exceptional talent and command over the electric guitar.
As Neelakantan strummed the strings and seamlessly transitioned between a slower, traditional tune and the heavy metal anthem, the judges – Simon Cowell, Sofia Vergara, Heidi Klum, and Howie Mandel – couldn’t believe their ears. Neelakantan’s breathtaking performance earned her a standing ovation from both the audience and the judges.
Expressing her awe, Vergara asked, “Are you sure you’re 10 years old? Your energy, your confidence. A perfect audition. Amazing.” Mandel followed up with a question about her inspirations, and Neelakantan revealed that she draws inspiration from Alex Jones of Tool and Gary Holt, the renowned guitarist from Exodus and Slayer.
Klum voiced her admiration, stating, “Everyone in this room loved what you just did. You should be very proud of yourself.” Cowell, known for his straightforward criticism, commended Neelakantan’s surprising transformation from a shy young girl to a “rock goddess.” He exclaimed, “That is the beginning of a career… Make noise among the noise. And you just did that.”
This season of America’s Got Talent continues to bring unexpected moments and surprises. Earlier this month, Cowell made show history by pressing the sought-after Golden Buzzer twice in a single episode. The Golden Buzzer grants contestants a direct pass to the live shows, and in a stunning turn of events, Cowell used it on two different acts during the same episode.