14-Year-Old Thai Guitarist PettyRock Ignites Siam Square with Deep Purple’s ‘Highway Star’ Cover
Petty Rock, a prodigious young Thai guitarist, has been captivating audiences since she was only five years old by sharing guitar videos online. Her early exposure and talent led her to appear on Asia’s Got Talent at the age of seven, showcasing her musical prowess to a broader audience.
By age 14, Petty Rock had become a commanding presence in the Bangkok music scene, particularly with her remarkable cover of Deep Purple’s classic rock anthem “Highway Star.” This took place in the bustling heart of the city, Siam Square, a vibrant urban space known for its dynamic street performances.
The performance delivered by PettyRock was more than just a cover; it was a full-band powerhouse rendition. Alongside Petty’s fiery guitar playing, the band featured keyboardist Yuri Irinrak, who contributed a standout solo, adding a rich layer of sound and melodic excitement that highlighted the arrangement.
Driving the rhythm section were bassist Paopao Lianseng and drummer Holly Empire, whose tight, energetic playing propelled the performance forward with an undeniable momentum. Their combined effort anchored the song’s complex structure and explosive bursts, providing a solid foundation for the guitar and keyboard parts to soar.
The atmosphere was both electrifying and inviting, with the performance taking place amidst an engaged public at Siam Square. This open-air setting allowed passersby and rock fans alike to experience the energy firsthand, immersing the audience in PettyRock’s powerful musical statement.
Watch the performance
This video captures the entire live street performance, showcasing the intensity and skill of Petty and her bandmates as they breathe new life into the rock classic “Highway Star.”
This rendition carried the hallmarks of classic hard rock with an aggressive pace and tight musicianship, yet it also presented a fresh, youthful perspective brought by PettyRock’s distinct style and charisma. Her guitar play was both technically impressive and emotionally charged, commanding attention throughout the song.
The electric synergy between band members was palpable. Yuri Irinrak’s keyboard solo injected a sparkling dynamic, weaving melodic flourishes that complemented Petty’s guitar lines perfectly. Meanwhile, the rhythm section’s punchy delivery by Paopao and Holly kept the performance grounded and driving.
Petty’s band’s visual presentation matched their sound; their infectious smiles and energetic movements heightened the audience’s engagement, suggesting a genuine passion and connection to the music that transcended their youth.
More than just a musical act, PettyRock’s performance served as a declaration of the enduring relevance of classic rock in today’s music culture. It symbolized the passing of the torch from one generation to the next, inspiring hope that rock ‘n’ roll’s spirit remains vibrant and evolving.
This viral video, which amassed 1.8 million views, indicates the band’s ability to reach wide audiences beyond their local fans. The enthusiastic reception confirms they are becoming new icons for rock music, particularly in regions where classic western rock blends with youthful Asian talent.
The public nature of the performance at Siam Square also underscored a natural interaction between performers and their audience. Unlike staged concerts, the musicians and viewers shared the energy of an organic urban environment, which added to the authenticity and immediacy of the music experience.
In addition to live instrumental arrangement, PettyRock’s vocals provided an essential melodic anchor. Her singing carried the familiar lyrics with conviction, helping to preserve the essence of Deep Purple’s original while fitting well with the band’s unique live vibe.
The technical setup revealed practical aspects of street-level music performance: microphones, cables, and amplifiers coexisted with nearby trees and pedestrian foot traffic, highlighting the fusion of nature, urban life, and rock music.
For rock enthusiasts seeking fresh talent that honors and reinvents classic sounds, PettyRock’s Highway Star cover offers a thrilling glimpse of what the future holds. The band’s collective skill and youthful verve demonstrate that traditional rock can thrive in contemporary contexts.
Through this performance, Petty and her bandmates underscore their readiness to carry rock’s legacy forward. Their stage presence and remarkable instrumental proficiency position them as influential emerging artists who are both inheritors and innovators within the genre.
Two more performances to explore
Highway Star 4สาววัยทีนพันธุ์ร็อค#pettyrock Band Siam Square Walking Street Centerpoint Bangkok.
Another dynamic performance of PettyRock’s ‘Highway Star’ in a closely related Bangkok street setting, showcasing the same youthful band’s vibrant energy and instrumental skill in an urban public space.
Hihway star 3-4-2018 PettyRock Vimolwan Saisathit วิมลวัลย์ ทรายสถิตย์ (น้องเพชร)
An earlier recorded version of PettyRock playing ‘Highway Star,’ offering context on the band’s musical growth and sustained dedication to this iconic Deep Purple cover over several years.
