Young Virtuoso Stuns with “Thunderstruck”: 11-Year-Old Nails AC/DC’s Most Challenging Riff

At just eleven years old, a young musician took the stage at his school talent show and left the audience stunned with his rendition of AC/DC’s electrifying anthem, “Thunderstruck.” This particular track is notorious among guitarists for its intricate riffs and the sheer technical challenge of its opening sequence. Yet, this did not deter young Julian, who devoted countless hours to perfecting his performance, chasing his goal of sharing his music with a live crowd. Such mastery at this age is a rare gift.

Those familiar with classic rock recognize “Thunderstruck” as an unwavering pillar of the genre. Its razor-sharp guitar work and the distinctive crowd chant have echoed through stadiums worldwide, cementing its status as a staple among rock fans. Julian’s passion and relentless dedication to the craft shone through, proving that with enough determination, any barrier—no matter how daunting—can be overcome. His journey highlights the value of perseverance and loving your art.

Julian’s moment in the spotlight began with an introduction from a fellow student, after which he strode confidently onto the stage, his guitar gleaming and a Black Sabbath t-shirt proudly on display. It was clear from the start that he wasn’t just there to play a song; he was there to channel the energy and spirit of heavy rock. The instant he began, Julian unleashed a wave of sound, skillfully showcasing everything he’d worked so hard to master.

To experience the full impact of his performance and the buzz it created, you can watch his viral talent show appearance here:

Interestingly, Julian’s preparation went beyond simply learning the notes. While he hadn’t yet completed every lesson required to master “Thunderstruck,” his courage to take the risk and step onto the stage anyway revealed the heart of a true performer. That willingness to leap into the unknown, supported by dedication, is what defines real musical growth—something even seasoned professionals admire.

AC/DC’s influence stretches far beyond just “Thunderstruck.” Founded in Australia by brothers Malcolm and Angus Young in 1973, the band rapidly became one of rock’s biggest names, known for crafting timeless hits and maintaining a relentless energy onstage. Despite numerous lineup changes throughout the decades, AC/DC’s signature sound—a mix of raw guitar power and bluesy vocals—remains unmistakable, continuing to thrill fans across generations.

Another legendary anthem from AC/DC’s catalog is “Highway to Hell.” This classic has fired up crowds around the world and remains one of the band’s most celebrated live tracks. To truly understand the excitement these songs create, check out their unforgettable performance here:

Julian’s story, as mentioned in the video’s description, goes even deeper. Though his roots are as a bassist, having picked up the instrument at the tender age of six, he expanded his skills to guitar, showing a versatility that’s unusual for musicians so young. Initially, he’d considered playing Metallica’s “Orion”—the bass-driven masterpiece by the late Cliff Burton—but ultimately settled on the mighty “Thunderstruck” for his big performance.

It’s this combination of curiosity, flexibility, and the courage to follow inspiration that marks Julian as more than just a student of music. He embodies the adventurous spirit of rock—never afraid to try something difficult and willing to step into the limelight with a challenging song, regardless of the outcome.

The performance was more than just a showcase of technical ability; it was a moment of celebration for classic rock and the next generation of musicians. Julian’s love for the genre radiated through every note, and the crowd’s enthusiastic response served as a reminder of how timeless and unifying great music can be.

In the end, it’s not only Julian’s impressive musicianship that stands out, but also his bravery, work ethic, and deep appreciation for the legacy of bands like AC/DC and Black Sabbath. Watching young artists like Julian keep the spirit of classic rock alive ensures that the thunder will keep rolling on for years to come.