Nene Royal, who began as a young street guitarist performing in local markets in Phuket, has captured global attention after earning four unanimous "Yes" votes from the judges in one of the world's biggest televised talent competitions.
The 16-year-old singer and guitarist impressed both the judges and the audience with a powerful live performance of ‘Zombie’ by Irish rock band The Cranberries during her audition for NBC's America's Got Talent Season 21.
Introducing herself as a contestant from Phuket, Thailand, Nene told the judges that she was 15 years old as the audition was recorded and would celebrate her 16th birthday the following day, prompting the judges and audience to sing ‘Happy Birthday’ to her.
Her performance earned a standing ovation, with all four judges praising her musicianship and saying she possessed the charisma and energy of a true rock star.
Judge Sofía Vergara described the audition as "spectacular" and praised Nene's stage presence and talent.
Howie Mandel called her a genuine young rock star, citing the powerful energy and rock-and-roll attitude she brought to the stage.
Mel B, the former Spice Girl, who said Phuket is her favourite place, applauded Nene's vocal control and guitar playing, saying the combination made her performance exceptional.
Simon Cowell highlighted the authenticity of her voice, saying that although the performance was a little rough around the edges, it made the audition even more compelling.
The judges’ vote sends Nene through to the next round.
The audition quickly went viral on social media, with viewers around the world praising the Thai teenager's confidence, stage presence and musical talent.
Nene's musical journey began when she was just six years old.
She taught herself to play the guitar by learning songs by ear from online videos, steadily developing her technical skills and stage presence.
Before making her international breakthrough, she had already built a strong following in Thailand through television appearances and national guitar competitions.
She finished as runner-up in the 14th Overdrive Guitar Contest in 2023 and received the Outstanding Player award at the King Power Band Competition in 2025.
She has also amassed more than three million followers across social media platforms and has been selected as a featured artist by international musical instrument brand Enya Music.
Despite her growing fame, many people in Phuket still remember her humble beginnings as a busker in local markets, where she first developed the confidence and experience.
