At just eleven years old, a young boy named Julian stole the spotlight at his school’s talent show with a jaw-dropping performance of “Thunderstruck” by AC/DC. The moment he walked onto the stage with confidence, guitar in hand and donning a Black Sabbath t-shirt, it was clear that this wasn’t just another school recital. This was the beginning of something much bigger. Julian’s rendition of the hard-hitting rock anthem left the audience in awe and reminded everyone of the power of youthful passion, commitment, and raw talent. To see someone so young take on such a complex and iconic song is nothing short of extraordinary.
“Thunderstruck” isn’t your average rock song—it’s a powerhouse of a track that demands skill, rhythm, and the ability to deliver with both energy and precision. The opening guitar riff alone is enough to give seasoned musicians pause, yet Julian handled it with surprising ease and maturity. The intricate finger work and rapid tempo required to play the song can be daunting, especially for someone so young. But instead of shying away from the challenge, Julian leaned into it, pouring hours of practice into mastering every note. What makes his performance so impressive isn’t just technical accuracy, but the heart and confidence he brought to the stage. Even though he hadn’t yet perfected the song in his music class, his determination to perform it live in front of an audience speaks volumes about his drive and fearlessness.
The performance is a testament to the timeless allure of rock music and the deep connection it forges with those who play and listen to it. “Thunderstruck,” originally released by AC/DC in 1990, has become a staple for rock fans around the globe. Its instantly recognizable intro, coupled with the band’s signature hard-hitting sound, makes it a favorite for live shows and cover performances. But what really elevates Julian’s act is how he channels that energy and makes it his own. He isn’t just playing a famous song—he’s paying homage to rock legends while beginning to carve his own path in the genre.
AC/DC, the legendary band behind “Thunderstruck,” was formed in 1973 by Australian brothers Malcolm and Angus Young. Over the decades, they’ve earned a place among the greatest rock bands of all time, with a sound that continues to resonate with fans of all ages. Despite experiencing numerous changes in band members, AC/DC has remained a dominant force in rock, selling out arenas and inspiring generations of musicians. Songs like “Highway to Hell” and “Back in Black” are more than just tracks on an album—they’re anthems of rebellion, grit, and unrelenting spirit. That spirit is exactly what Julian tapped into during his performance. It’s as if he channeled the essence of classic rock through his fingertips.
Interestingly, Julian’s musical journey didn’t begin with the electric guitar. According to the video’s description, his main instrument is the bass guitar. He’s been playing bass for some time now and only picked up the guitar at the age of six. Originally, he had planned to perform a bass cover of “Orion,” the instrumental masterpiece by Metallica’s late bassist Cliff Burton from the album Master of Puppets. Burton’s influence on aspiring musicians around the world is well-documented, and it’s clear that Julian draws inspiration from the heavy metal greats. Although he ultimately chose to perform “Thunderstruck,” it’s easy to imagine how that same passion would have been evident in a Metallica tribute as well.
What sets Julian apart isn’t just his talent, but also his mindset. At an age when most kids are still figuring out what they enjoy, Julian has already committed himself to developing his skills as a musician. He understands that greatness doesn’t come overnight—it’s the result of consistent effort, a willingness to take risks, and a love for what you do. His performance demonstrates all three. Even though he was still perfecting the song, he didn’t let that stop him from getting on stage and giving it his all. That kind of courage and perseverance is something many adults struggle with, let alone a child just entering adolescence.
Watching Julian perform also serves as a powerful reminder to parents, teachers, and communities about the importance of nurturing young talent. Encouraging kids to explore their passions, whether in music, art, sports, or any other field, can lead to incredible outcomes. Opportunities like school talent shows might seem small, but for kids like Julian, they can be life-changing moments that build confidence and set the stage for future success. His story is proof that when young people are given the tools and encouragement to chase their dreams, they can achieve remarkable things—even in front of a crowd.
There’s something deeply inspiring about watching someone so young embrace a challenge that would intimidate even experienced performers. It reaffirms the idea that age is not a barrier to greatness. In fact, youth can be an asset—bringing energy, fresh perspective, and a sense of fearlessness that’s hard to replicate later in life. Julian’s performance of “Thunderstruck” wasn’t just a musical number. It was a bold statement. It said, “I’m here. I’m serious. And I’m ready to rock.”
In a world filled with distractions and short attention spans, stories like Julian’s remind us that true passion still shines through. It speaks to the enduring legacy of rock music and the timeless influence of bands like AC/DC. But most of all, it highlights the incredible potential of the next generation. Julian might be just starting his journey, but with the talent, dedication, and heart he’s already shown, there’s no telling how far he’ll go. One thing is certain—this won’t be the last time we hear his name. Keep an eye out, because Julian is just getting started.
