When Layla Clark, a senior at Thomas Jefferson High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, posted a video of herself playing AC/DC’s classic “Thunderstruck” on mallet percussion, she never imagined it would become an internet sensation. The clip, originally recorded during a marching‑band rehearsal last year, was reshared on social media last week and quickly amassed millions of views.
From rehearsal to viral fame
“He sent me the link, and it had, like, already 6 million views, and I was like, aw, jeez,” Clark recalled, smiling. The sudden exposure has been both exhilarating and humbling for the young musician.
Clark explained that mastering the fast‑paced riff was a long‑term effort. “It took forever to learn the song,” she said. “I’m going to be really honest, I don’t even have it perfected yet.” Her modesty underscores the dedication required to translate a rock anthem to a marching‑band instrument.
Celebrity notice and school pride
The video’s reach extended far beyond the Pittsburgh area when NFL tight end Travis Kelce, husband of pop star Taylor Swift, reposted the clip and praised Clark’s talent. “I just found out getting on the bus today that Travis Kelce reposted my video and was talking about me, so that’s exciting,” she said. “That’s the first actual celebrity I’ve heard talking about my video.”
Students at Thomas Jefferson have also taken notice. “I’ve heard people watching my video in the hallways, and they point and go, ‘Oh, that’s her,'” Clark noted, adding that the newfound attention has boosted her confidence.
Band family and future plans
Clark attributes much of her success to the supportive environment of her school’s band program. “I wouldn’t be the same without my band. I’d probably still be, like, the super shy, nervous kid,” she said. “I couldn’t have done any of this without them.” The band’s recent performances have showcased a diverse repertoire, including numbers from “The Wiz,” Elvis Presley’s “Viva Las Vegas,” and Miley Cyrus’s “Party in the USA” during a Friday night football game.
Beyond music, Clark has ambitious academic goals. She plans to attend college next fall to become an exotic‑animal veterinarian and hopes her future school will also have a band program where she can continue to grow as a musician.
Community response
Local residents have expressed pride in Clark’s achievement, viewing it as a testament to the strength of the school’s arts programs. Parents and teachers alike see the viral moment as an opportunity to highlight the value of extracurricular activities that foster discipline, teamwork, and confidence among youth.
As the video continues to circulate, Clark remains focused on improving her performance and encouraging other students to pursue their passions, whether in music, science, or any other field.
Original reporting: WESH Orlando — read the source article.
