Latvia’s Laura Lace, a talented neoclassical guitarist, became a global sensation through her incredible rendition of “Canon Rock,” a rock adaptation of Johann Pachelbel’s “Canon in D.” This video, which she posted in 2016, has since amassed a staggering 148 million views, drawing in fans from all over the world. Known for her high-speed guitar technique and mastery of blending classical music with rock, Lace captivated an audience of over 246,000 followers on social media, gaining widespread recognition.

In the past, the road to success in the music and arts industry was a tough journey, requiring talent but often obstructed by gatekeepers like record labels, gallery owners, and casting agents. Many artists struggled to make their mark, their work seen only by a few. However, the internet has revolutionized this dynamic, giving artists like Lace a platform to showcase their talents without needing permission from traditional industry gatekeepers.

Lace, who hails from Riga, Latvia, finds her inspiration in classical music from composers such as Beethoven, Bach, and Vivaldi. Since she began sharing her guitar performances online in 2016, Lace has gained a loyal following, with fans drawn to her unique style of blending the sophistication of classical music with the energy of rock. One of her most iconic performances is her cover of “Canon Rock,” a powerful arrangement of Pachelbel’s “Canon in D.” Originally composed in the Baroque era, “Canon in D” has been widely used as a wedding march, but Lace’s rock arrangement adds a completely new and electrifying dimension to this centuries-old piece.

The arrangement of “Canon Rock” that Lace plays was originally composed by JerryC, a Taiwanese guitarist who gained popularity in the early days of YouTube with his rock version of “Canon in D.” His 2006 video, which showed him playing the song from his bed, went viral and has since accumulated millions of views. Today, his composition is considered a staple among guitarists, with aspiring musicians around the world attempting to master its intricate techniques.

Lace’s performance of “Canon Rock” stands out not only for her technical prowess but also for the effortless way she plays the song. The piece is incredibly demanding, requiring skillful use of alternate picking, sweep picking, and challenging legato runs. Many guitarists attempt to tackle this arrangement, but few manage to do so with the same ease and precision as Lace. Watching her play, it becomes clear that she has truly mastered the composition, executing every note with pinpoint accuracy while maintaining a smooth flow that makes the performance seem effortless.

Her fans are amazed by her abilities, with one commenter praising her for her flawless execution: “She hits those notes so effortlessly and flawlessly. She’s definitely superhuman.” Another fan shared, “She has a beautiful tone. She’s not just playing notes; she makes the guitar sing.” Many others expressed admiration for her skill and how she breathes new life into a piece of music that has existed for over 350 years. One viewer even remarked, “I 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.”

What makes Lace’s version of “Canon Rock” so compelling is not just her technical proficiency, but also the fresh energy she brings to the performance. While countless guitarists have covered this famous arrangement, Lace’s version continues to captivate listeners, offering a unique interpretation that keeps fans returning for more. Her performance is more than just a cover; it’s a work of art in its own right, solidifying her place as one of the most exciting and innovative guitarists of her generation.