11-Year-Old Girl Unleashes a Blazing “Master of Puppets” Like You’ve Never Seen

In the vibrant tapestry of America’s Got Talent 2024, one performance stood out—not just for its skill, but for the heart and passion behind it. Eleven-year-old Maya Neelakantan from Chennai, India, stunned viewers and judges alike with a fierce rendition of Metallica’s “Master of Puppets” during the quarterfinals. Her stage presence and musical command belied her age, instantly setting her apart from the competition.

Maya’s musical journey began early, shaped by her family’s deep love for music. Introduced to Carnatic music by her grandmother at the age of two, she developed a strong foundation in traditional Indian rhythms. That early influence later merged with her growing passion for heavy metal, which she discovered through her father’s record collection, featuring legends like Metallica, Tool, and Slayer.

By the age of six, Maya had picked up the guitar, and her talent quickly became undeniable. Under the mentorship of renowned Tamil guitarist Prasanna Ramaswamy, she began fusing Indian classical techniques with Western rock, creating a unique and dynamic style. This fusion became her signature—a mix of technical brilliance and deep cultural expression.

Her choice to perform “Master of Puppets” during the AGT quarterfinals was a bold statement. The song is not only a Metallica classic but also notoriously difficult to play, even for seasoned professionals. Maya didn’t just perform it—she owned it. Her execution was precise, her stage presence electric, and the emotional weight of the song came through in every note.

The iconic Gibson Flying V guitar she played—a metallic silver model gifted to her by the company—added to the power of the moment. Known for being favored by rock legends, the instrument felt like a natural extension of her personality. Maya wielded it with confidence, turning her performance into an unforgettable spectacle of youth-meets-legend energy.

The judges were visibly blown away. Simon Cowell praised her not only for her skill but for receiving Metallica’s permission to perform the track—no small feat, considering the band’s protective stance on their material. Howie Mandel compared her to a young reincarnation of Van Halen, marveling at the power she packed into such a small frame. Their astonishment was genuine, and so was the audience’s reaction.

Long before AGT, Maya had already built an online presence through her YouTube channel, managed by her father. Her performances—including a stunning 22-song Tool medley—began circulating widely. That particular medley even caught the attention of Tool’s guitarist Adam Jones, who was so impressed that he sent her a custom Gibson Les Paul guitar—a moment that marked her entry into the global music conversation.

Her cultural background plays a crucial role in her artistry. With an Indian father and Australian mother, Maya blends the classical traditions of India with the raw energy of Western rock. It’s a rare combination, and she brings it to life with authenticity and confidence, showing how music can bridge cultures and create something truly new.

Maya’s earlier AGT audition was equally jaw-dropping. Dressed in traditional Indian attire, she began with a spiritual Carnatic intro that seamlessly shifted into a hard-hitting rendition of Papa Roach’s “Last Resort.” The contrast was deliberate, reflecting both her heritage and her modern musical identity. It captivated the judges and made her a fan favorite from the start.

Though her AGT journey ended after the quarterfinals, Maya left an undeniable mark. Her performances sparked wider conversations about musical diversity, generational talent, and the evolving face of rock music. She proved that great artistry doesn’t need decades of experience—just passion, vision, and courage.

Maya isn’t just aiming for success—she’s looking to innovate. Her dream is to create an entirely new genre that blends the depth and intricacy of Carnatic music with the thunder and chaos of heavy metal. For her, this isn’t just a career path—it’s a mission to expand the boundaries of what music can be.

Her daily life reflects her discipline. While practicing hours each day to refine her playing, she also continues her formal studies through an online curriculum. Her ability to balance academic learning with such an intense musical journey speaks volumes about her focus and maturity.

None of this would be possible without the unwavering support of her family. From early exposure to diverse genres to encouraging her to perform on international stages, her parents have been instrumental in her development. Their belief in her abilities laid the foundation for the confidence Maya now carries into every performance.

The international music community has responded with admiration and excitement. From fans to professional musicians, Maya’s talent is widely recognized as something rare and special. With each performance, she garners more attention, opening doors for collaborations, mentorships, and future global stages.

Maya’s story is one of inspiration—showing that talent, when nurtured with care and vision, can transcend borders and genres. Her journey illustrates how a young girl from Chennai can rise to become a global musical force, reminding the world that greatness has no age limit.

As her path continues to unfold, Maya Neelakantan stands as a symbol of the future—bold, brilliant, and unafraid to break boundaries. Her presence on AGT was only the beginning, and the music world is eagerly watching what comes next.