The world is taking notice of Maya Neelakantan, the 10-year-old guitar player who has become a YouTube sensation. Her incredible talent has captivated music fans and industry professionals alike, and now, Metallica themselves have joined her growing fanbase. For her recent appearance on NBC’s America’s Got Talent (AGT), Maya was granted special permission by the legendary band to perform their iconic anthem, “Master of Puppets.”
From the moment Maya stepped onto the AGT stage, it was clear she was about to unleash something special. As the opening riffs of “Master of Puppets” filled the auditorium, the audience erupted in cheers. Maya, radiating pure joy, attacked the complex song with a skill and passion that belied her young age. Her fingers flew across the fretboard, delivering the face-melting guitar work with infectious energy and a constant, beaming smile.
Mid-performance, flashing the iconic metal horns, Maya engaged the crowd, shouting, “AGT, are you ready?” before seamlessly transitioning into a unique segment where she made her electric guitar mimic the sound of a sitar. This display of versatility and musical creativity was just a prelude to the blistering, high-speed guitar solo that followed, driving the performance to a crescendo and earning her a well-deserved standing ovation from the judges and audience.
Metallica Gives Their Blessing
Metallica, known for their careful protection of their music catalog, made an exception for Maya. Simon Cowell acknowledged this during the judge’s comments, stating, “I gotta say a big, big thank you to Metallica for giving you that song. That doesn’t happen very often.” This public acknowledgment underscores the band’s recognition of Maya’s exceptional talent and the impact of her performance.
Maya herself expressed immense gratitude, adding, “It was just amazing. I’m so happy I had the honor of playing ‘Master of Puppets’ by Metallica for the first time on AGT. So thank you Metallica and thank you to the Cliff Burton family for making this possible.” Her words highlight not only her appreciation for Metallica’s generosity but also her respect for the legacy of the song and its creators.
AGT Judges Blown Away by Young Guitarist
The AGT judges were unanimous in their praise for Maya’s performance. Howie Mandel was particularly enthusiastic, exclaiming, “That was like Van Halen reincarnated! You’re amazing on that thing. And not only that, but you were mixing it in with your culture, like a sitar making it sound like a guitar, and your smile, it doesn’t end. You wouldn’t think it would come from you. You are a surprise. You’re amazing and I love you.” Mandel’s comparison to Van Halen, a guitar legend, emphasizes the high caliber of Maya’s playing.
Heidi Klum was equally impressed, saying, “You are amazing. You’re perfect. You’re perfectly you. I love that you didn’t pick dolls. Maybe you have, but you picked this instrument instead. You are so amazing on it. Well done! I hope America’s gonna vote for you.” Klum’s comment celebrates Maya’s individuality and her dedication to music over more conventional childhood interests.
Sofia Vergara added her admiration, “Maya I still can’t believe that it’s all this music coming out from you. It’s super surprising. It’s unbelievable. The song was perfect. That was the most fun I’ve had tonight.” Vergara’s disbelief reflects the astonishment many feel when witnessing such advanced musicality from someone so young.
Simon Cowell, known for his often-critical demeanor, was thoroughly impressed. “That was wild,” he admitted. “I just think you’re one of these people that has a gods-given talent and it’s always brilliant to be surprised. It’s always great to see someone improve from their first audition, but this was a real step up … This is something you’ve got to do for the rest of your life because you’re so good at this. I’m serious.” Cowell’s strong encouragement and prediction of a lifelong career in music further solidify the judges’ collective belief in Maya’s exceptional talent.
Industry Support for Maya Neelakantan
Maya’s journey on America’s Got Talent has garnered her support from across the music industry. Following her initial audition, guitar virtuoso Gary Holt of Slayer and Exodus, along with his wife, traveled to Los Angeles to meet and encourage the young guitarist. Holt generously gifted Maya with guitar gear and merchandise and even assisted as her guitar tech during her AGT audition taping. This mentorship from a metal legend highlights the respect Maya has earned within the genre.
Testament’s Alex Skolnick also voiced his support after her “Master of Puppets” performance. “I’m hearing that my young Pal Maya crushed it again tonight on @AGT. I was onstage & couldn’t tune in but can’t wait to watch!” Skolnick’s public endorsement adds to the chorus of established musicians recognizing Maya’s talent.
Previously, Tool’s Adam Jones acknowledged Maya’s guitar skills after seeing a video of her playing Tool riffs. Jones was so impressed that he gifted her one of his own guitars. This remarkable gesture from Jones, another highly respected guitarist, underscores the profound impact Maya’s playing has had on established musicians.
Maya Neelakantan’s performance of Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” on America’s Got Talent was more than just a show-stopping moment; it was a powerful demonstration of her extraordinary talent and a testament to her bright future in music. With support from rock icons and the enthusiastic approval of the AGT judges and audience, this 10-year-old guitar player is undoubtedly on her way to becoming a major force in the music world.
