Thailand Celebrates Teen Rock Sensation Nene's 'America's Got Talent' Victory
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A 16-year-old Thai rock vocalist and guitarist who has shared the stage with the country's prime minister and the band Linkin Park has claimed victory on a leading US television talent competition, igniting celebrations across her homeland and earning admiration from her school principal.
Nene Royal, born Rattikarn Amloy, secured the $1 million prize as champion of "America's Got Talent" on Thursday, captivating judges and audiences with powerful guitar solos and rock ballad vocals.
The Phuket native has risen to national prominence in Thailand throughout the competition, having performed alongside Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul in July.
As her final performance was broadcast, classmates and faculty back home gathered at a watch party to support her.
The instant she was declared winner becoming the first Thai national to claim the show's title was "electric," school principal Gareth Eynon told AFP.
"Literally everyone from age two to 18 was there cheering her on" at Kajonkiet International School Phuket, he said.
"She's so talented, yet she's so humble," Eynon added.
"She doesn't have to be front and centre of the stage" during school performances, he noted, adding that Nene was equally content supporting and encouraging less experienced student musicians.
"She's a truly remarkable role model for the younger children at the school."
'In Love' From the First Chord
Nene, who says she began playing guitar at age seven, dropped to the stage floor in California upon hearing she had won.
"I'm very happy and you know I'm emotional right now," the young performer said, having edged out a magician to claim the title.
During her winning performance, she played guitar and sang alongside American band Linkin Park.
Clips of her earlier renditions of alternative rock staples including The Cranberries' "Zombie" and Soundgarden's "Black Hole Sun" had previously gone viral in Thailand.
Prime Minister Anutin, currently in New York attending the UN General Assembly, extended his congratulations to Nene, commending her talent and dedication, which "brought pride to Thai people," according to deputy government spokeswoman Ploythalay Laksameesaengjan.
Nene explained that she learned guitar largely through online videos before earning a music scholarship to her private international school.
"When I played the first chord, I fell in love and I thought I am going to be the girl rock star," she told AGT in an interview.
The Phuket night market where she first honed her craft celebrated her achievement as a source of inspiration.
In a social media post, it stated: "This victory is a beautiful reminder of what can happen when someone truly gives everything to their dream."
Principal Eynon said he was uncertain when or if Nene would return to school, noting that her prospects were now "boundless."
Still, he emphasized: "We are here for her and are here to support her."
© AFP
