Latvia’s Laura Lace has taken the internet by storm with her jaw-dropping performance of “Canon Rock,” a high-energy rock adaptation of the Baroque-era composition “Canon in D.” With over 148 million views since she first shared the video in 2016, her electric guitar mastery has captivated fans around the world, proving that true talent can shine when given the right platform. Laura’s version of this centuries-old piece isn’t just a cover—it’s a stunning fusion of classical precision and modern rock power.
For many years, breaking into the music or art world required more than just raw talent. Traditional gatekeepers—record label executives, gallery curators, and casting directors—held all the power, often limiting opportunities to a select few. Aspiring musicians and artists had to fight tooth and nail for recognition, often facing years of rejection before their talents could even be seen or heard. It was an uphill battle that left countless gifted individuals in the shadows, never getting the spotlight they deserved.
But everything changed with the rise of the internet. Social media platforms, especially YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, have revolutionized the way artists connect with the public. Instead of waiting to be discovered by an industry insider, creators can now share their work directly with audiences around the globe. One viral video can propel a relatively unknown artist into international fame overnight. And that’s exactly what happened to Laura Lace.
Hailing from Riga, Latvia, Laura Lace is a neoclassical guitarist who seamlessly blends the elegance of classical music with the intensity of rock. Her influences are deeply rooted in the works of legendary composers such as Beethoven, Bach, and Vivaldi. Since launching her YouTube channel in 2016, she has steadily built a loyal fan base of more than 246,000 subscribers, all drawn to her unique ability to reimagine classical music through the lens of electric guitar.
Her performance of “Canon Rock” stands out as her most iconic piece. Originally composed by Johann Pachelbel before his death in 1706, “Canon in D Major” is a timeless classic most commonly recognized as a popular wedding march. But in the hands of Laura Lace, it becomes something entirely new—a bold and electrifying journey that retains the piece’s classical roots while delivering the powerful energy of modern rock.
The rock arrangement of this piece was originally created by Taiwanese guitarist and composer JerryC. In 2006, JerryC uploaded his version of “Canon Rock” to YouTube, just a year after the platform was founded. His rendition quickly went viral, and his performance—recorded in his bedroom—has since been viewed over 26 million times. His arrangement became a rite of passage for guitarists across the world, many of whom have tried their hand at covering this technically demanding piece.
However, few have managed to play it with the same precision, flair, and emotional depth as Laura Lace. Her performance of “Canon Rock” is not only technically flawless but also deeply expressive. The piece itself is known for its difficulty, featuring rapid alternate picking, intricate sweep picking, and fluid legato runs that challenge even the most skilled guitarists. Yet Laura plays with such fluidity and confidence that it seems almost effortless, as though the guitar were an extension of her own voice.
What sets Laura apart is not just her technical skill, but her ability to make the music come alive. Fans often comment on how she doesn’t simply play notes—she tells a story. Each phrase flows seamlessly into the next, maintaining both the integrity of the original composition and the explosive energy of its rock reinterpretation. Her tone is rich and warm, her articulation crisp and precise, and her stage presence magnetic.
The comment section of her YouTube video is filled with admiration from viewers around the world. One fan writes, “This was amazing. She hit those notes so effortlessly and flawlessly. She’s definitely superhuman.” Another shares, “She has a beautiful tone. She’s not just playing notes, she makes the guitar sing.” And a third reflects on the timelessness of the music: “Amazing how this song is approx. 350 years old. And it keeps going. One of my all-time favorites. Made by a master of music.”
What’s remarkable is how Laura has breathed new life into a piece that has been covered thousands of times. Despite the countless interpretations of “Canon Rock,” her version remains fresh and exciting, drawing in both new fans and longtime listeners. One commenter writes, “Saw this first back in 2016 and instantly got hooked. Here again after 8 years. Glad to see myself [eight years ago] had good music taste.”
Laura Lace’s rendition of “Canon Rock” is more than just a viral video. It’s a reminder of how the internet can level the playing field for artists and allow true talent to rise above the noise. It also underscores the power of music to connect people across cultures and generations, uniting them through a shared appreciation of beauty and expression.
In a digital age where attention spans are short and trends change overnight, Laura’s success stands as proof that artistry, passion, and authenticity still matter. Her work is not only a tribute to the great composers of the past but also a testament to the possibilities of modern creativity. She honors tradition while pushing boundaries, creating something entirely her own.
If you haven’t seen Laura Lace’s performance of “Canon Rock,” now is the time. It’s not just a musical performance—it’s an experience. Watch her fingers glide across the fretboard with astonishing speed and grace. Listen to how each note rings with clarity and emotion. Feel the energy of a composition born centuries ago, reimagined through the soul of a gifted modern artist.
Once you’ve experienced it, don’t keep it to yourself. Share the video with your friends and family. Let others witness the magic of Laura Lace, and help celebrate the incredible talent of an artist who proves that music, no matter its origin, can continue to evolve and inspire.
