Just sitting and playing, 11-year-old Olly Pearson stunned audiences with a jaw-dropping rendition of Guns N’ Roses’ November Rain, earning comparisons to rock icons Axl Rose and Slash.
Viewers flooded social media with comments insisting that the young guitarist should perform alongside the legendary band, praising his performance as professional-level mastery.
Pearson, who first gained fame on Britain’s Got Talent, has been playing guitar since age six, guided by his grandfather, Lee Hughes. His musical tastes span AC/DC, Van Halen, Foo Fighters, Metallica, The Rolling Stones, and Queen — influences that shine through in his energetic and precise playing.
Earlier this year, Pearson earned a golden buzzer on Britain’s Got Talent, performing a medley of rock classics. Guitar Player described the performance as a “star-making spot,” where Pearson transitioned seamlessly from Angus Young’s Highway to Hell riffs to Eddie Van Halen’s Jump licks, and concluded with a flawless rendition of Brian May’s solo from Queen’s “Don’t Stop Me Now”.
Fans and critics alike are captivated by Pearson’s technical skill and stage presence. Pianist Julien Cohen, who captured Pearson’s recent Paris performance in a flashmob-style rendition of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody, commented on the prodigy’s standout talent: “I was blown away by his guitar solo — what absolute talent!”
Social media responses continue to pour in, highlighting Pearson’s remarkable ability to command attention despite his young age. One viewer wrote:
“We just brought you news of this awesome performance of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody. It’s unlike any rendition of the rock anthem I’ve seen, because it was performed flashmob-style by thirty musicians and vocalists on a street in Paris, much to the delight of all of the folks who were lucky enough to be wandering the street or hanging out in the nearby restaurants and cafes at the perfect time. What a magical experience for everyone involved in the production and for the bystanders who got to witness it!”
Cohen’s video showcased Pearson alongside other talented performers, including lead singer Mickey Callisto and soloists DDKN sisters, Sone, Coline Sicre, and Michael Koné. Yet it was Pearson’s precise, emotive guitar work that drew particular attention, confirming his status as a young prodigy destined for a bright future in rock music.
As Pearson continues to hone his craft and inspire fans worldwide, one thing is clear: the music world is only just beginning to see the potential of this extraordinary young guitarist.