Nene Royal Wins America’s Got Talent Season 21

From Phuket Street Performances to the AGT Stage

Rattikan “Praew” Amloy, known professionally as Nene Royal, began playing the guitar at age seven in Phuket, Thailand. Before her appearance on American television, she built her performance experience by playing at local venues and markets with family support. For her initial audition, the 16-year-old musician performed “Zombie” by The Cranberries, earning advancing votes from judges Simon Cowell, Mel B, Sofía Vergara, and Howie Mandel. She followed that performance during the judges’ callbacks with a rendition of Muse’s “Hysteria.”

The Golden Buzzer and Final-Round Performances

During the live quarter-finals, Royal performed an arrangement of Soundgarden’s “Black Hole Sun.” Judge Mel B pressed the Live Golden Buzzer during this round, advancing Royal directly to the final without requiring her to pass through the public quarter-final or semi-final votes. For her final competitive performance, Royal played “Seven Nation Army” by The White Stripes, wearing a red outfit and performing with an electric guitar. Guest judge KSI described her performance as “out of this world,” while Sofía Vergara and Mel B praised her distinct stage presence.

Future Plans and Musical Ambitions

Following her victory, Royal stated her intention to use the platform to showcase more of her artistry beyond guitar playing. She writes her own music and plays piano, bass, and drums, drawing inspiration from rock and metal bands including System of a Down, Linkin Park, and The Warning. During the finale, Royal met members of Linkin Park, including Mike Shinoda, Emily Armstrong, Joe Hahn, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell, and Colin Brittain. Royal stated that she aims to release original music—such as an EP or an album—and eventually tour internationally.