Rashi Mehta
An 11-year-old guitarist from Chennai, India, has taken the world by storm with her electrifying performance on America’s Got Talent (AGT). Maya’s unique fusion of Carnatic music, rock, and metal left the judges speechless, earning her a standing ovation and the nickname “Rock Goddess” from none other than Simon Cowell.
A Fusion Genre Born from a Musical Upbringing
Maya’s musical journey began at home, surrounded by the rich traditions of Carnatic music passed down by her grandmother and the energetic sounds of rock and metal introduced by her IT professional father. Exposed to both worlds, Maya discovered a passion for creating her own genre-bending sound.
“I heard Metallica when I was about five and loved how energetic it sounded,” Maya says. “At six, I started learning guitar from my dad and then found YouTube lessons to improve.”
At eight, Maya delved deeper into the world of progressive rock with the American band Tool. However, it was the discovery of US-based Carnatic guitarist Prasanna that truly ignited a spark. “I didn’t know you could play Carnatic music on a guitar,” Maya exclaims. “Before I discovered them, it felt like something was missing from my music.”
This revelation led Maya to take online classes from Prasanna for the past two years, further refining her ability to blend seemingly disparate musical styles.
From YouTube to AGT Stardom
A turning point came when Maya uploaded a cover of Tool’s “7empest” to YouTube, filmed in her room next to her Peppa Pig toy. The video unexpectedly caught the attention of Tool guitarist Adam Jones himself. Jones not only offered valuable advice but also surprised Maya with a signed Gibson guitar, the same model he plays.
“That was special,” Maya beams. “And that’s the guitar I played on America’s Got Talent. We’ve been in touch ever since, and I’m very proud to have a friend like him.”
AGT Performance and Beyond
Maya’s electrifying AGT performance, featuring the genre-defying medley that impressed the judges, has garnered over 23 million views on YouTube. Now a semi-finalist, Maya’s journey on AGT has not only given her a global platform but also inspired a new generation to appreciate the beauty of Carnatic music.
“When most people hear Indian music, they link it to Bollywood,” says Maya’s father, Neelakantan. “But Carnatic music is a hidden gem. Maya can inspire people to understand how beautiful this ancient classical art form is and how it blends with her other musical interests.”
Looking Ahead: Original Music and Continued Growth
Back in Chennai, Maya now attends online school, allowing her more time to focus on her music. Her daily routine includes meditation, guitar practice, online classes, and rehearsals. While she enjoys playing music by other artists, Maya remains dedicated to honing her skills and exploring the creation of original music.
“What I did on the show was a small part of what I want to be doing in the future,” says Maya, hinting at a future filled with original compositions and a unique musical identity.
Maya’s journey is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and the beauty of cultural fusion. With her talent, dedication, and the support of her family and music icons like Adam Jones, Maya is poised to rock the world stage for years to come.
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