Nene Royal heads to AGT Live Show as father hints at surprises

Thai teenage rock music prodigy ‘Nene Royal’ left for the US today to prepare for the Live Show round of ‘America’s Got Talent’ (AGT) next week.

Sixteen-year-old Nene, whose real name is Rattikarn Amlai, left Phuket International Airport with her parents and younger brother. They flew to Bangkok before continuing to the United States.

Speaking before boarding her flight, Nene said she was fully prepared for the crucial round after intensive rehearsals in both singing and stage performance.

“I’m fully ready. I want to show my vocal power to people in America and around the world. I’d like everyone to cheer me on and send me encouragement, especially Thais in America. Please don’t forget to vote for Nene Royal,” she said.

Nene also thanked everyone who has followed and supported her throughout the competition, saying she was both proud and excited to have reached the Live Show round, particularly after learning that tickets for the event had sold out.

She said she hoped to receive strong support from the audience at the venue.

The young rocker from Phuket first gained international attention with her AGT audition, performing The Cranberries classic ‘Zombie’ with powerful vocals and guitar skills. The performance earned her a “yes” from all four judges and advanced her to the next stage.

In the Judges’ Callbacks round, Nene returned with a performance of Muse’s ‘Hysteria’, again combining strong guitar work with her vocals. The performance earned her a place in the Live Shows, where her progress will now be determined by audience voting.

Her father, Narong Amlai, thanked everyone for their continued support and said he would do his best to look after and encourage his daughter. He revealed that Nene’s preparations for the Live Show had drawn on her experiences from the previous two rounds.

While some details of her upcoming performance must remain secret, he promised that there would be some surprises.

Narong also encouraged children who see Nene as a role model to stay committed to whatever they choose to do and give it their best.

Determination and dedication can lead to success, he said.