When 10-year-old Maya Neelakantan from Chennai who plays the guitar went on stage to participate in the Guitar Masters Concert at Pasadena Civic Auditorium in Los Angeles, India had pinned its hopes on her and a Gibson Adam Jones Les Paul Standard guitar. Looking every bit like a temple belle in a pure red and gold silk pattu pavadai with traditional temple jewels, she was all set to unleash her talents in one of the most popular reality TV shows across the seven seas – America’s Got Talent.
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A Stunning Performance By Maya Neelakantan
Maya’s audition began with an intricate alaap in Natbhairavi, a grand devotional raga, which soon transitioned into the rap-rock piece “Last Resort” by American band Papa Roach. The blend of Carnatic, rock, and metal music earned her a standing ovation from the audience and judges Simon Cowell, Heidi Klum, Howie Mandel, Sofia Vergara, and Terry Crews. Cowell even called her a “rock goddess.”
Viral Fame
The telecast of Maya’s audition went viral on social media, garnering over 23 lakh views on YouTube. Her performance has given her the confidence to pursue her genre-defying music further. Now, Maya is preparing for the AGT semi-finals, where only 10 contestants will proceed to the final round.
Early Life and Musical Journey
Maya’s father from Tamil Nadu has his own IT firm while her mother hails from Australia. She is a professional in the field of education; she was introduced to Carnatic music at an early age. Her father featured her in rock and metal music and she said that she was hooked when she was five years old and heard Metallica. Maya started with guitar lessons at six with her father and uses YouTube to augment her lessons.
Influences and Mentors
At eight, Maya discovered the American prog rock band Tool and was inspired by US-based guitarist Prasanna. A pioneer in performing Carnatic music on the guitar. She has been taking online classes from Prasanna for the past two years. Her cover of Tool’s “7empest” piqued the interest of guitarist Adam Jones, who sent her a signed Gibson guitar and has remained in contact with her since.
Support from the Music Community
Maya’s talents have also impressed guitarist Gary Holt of the legendary thrash metal band Slayer, who gifted her a guitar and supported her at her Los Angeles audition. Her journey has been filled with encouragement and support from renowned musicians.
Family Support and Education
Maya’s father, Neelakantan, never planned for her to compete in AGT. It happened serendipitously after an invitation from a producer. Her family believes that AGT is a path shaped by the universe for Maya, allowing her to showcase the beauty of Carnatic music blended with her other musical interests. Maya now attends school online, which gives her the flexibility to travel and practice her music.
Conclusion
Maya Neelakantan on America’s Got Talent highlights her talent along with family and teachers’ support. She still goes on propagating the next generation, thereby keeping the tradition of Carnatic music and its integration with rock and metal alive.
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