<\/span><\/h2>\nMaya’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 \u201crock goddess.\u201d<\/p>\n
<\/span>Viral Fame<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nThe 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.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Early Life and Musical Journey<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nMaya\u2019s 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.<\/p>\n
<\/span>Influences and Mentors<\/strong><\/span><\/h2>\nAt 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.<\/p>\n