Nene Royal Eyes Original Rock Music After $1 Million AGT Win
The 16-year-old Thai guitarist won Season 21 of America's Got Talent, taking home $1 million. She says she was shocked and plans to create her own rock and metal music, drawing on her self-taught skills. She wants to show more than her guitar playing, including singing and songwriting.
Royal began playing guitar at age seven in Phuket, Thailand, and has never had formal instruction. Beyond guitar, she plays piano, bass, and drums, and writes her own songs. Her family was so stunned by the win that they dropped to their knees, while fellow finalists rushed to congratulate her onstage.
The victory places her among a select group of AGT champions, following a finale where she performed a guitar rendition of "Seven Nation Army." She cites System of a Down, Linkin Park, and The Warning as influences, and hopes to release an album or EP while touring internationally. Representing Thailand on a global stage, she views the win as a milestone for Asian musicians seeking worldwide recognition.
Royal's victory may inspire young musicians in Thailand and across Asia to pursue unconventional paths in rock and metal, genres often underrepresented in mainstream talent competitions. Her self-taught background could resonate with aspiring artists lacking formal training, demonstrating that raw passion and dedication can achieve mainstream success. The win may also broaden audience expectations for what female guitarists can offer, potentially opening doors for more diverse rock and metal representation on global television platforms.