Dear America's Got Talent Producers,

My name is Tyler Shep, I am a 14-year-old progressive metal / rock guitarist eager to share my music with the world. Music has been my passion since I picked up a bass guitar three years ago, which soon led me to the electric guitar. Despite a setback—a broken bone in my hand from a tennis injury—I returned to my instrument more determined than ever, and it marked a major turning point in my journey.

Since then, I've dedicated countless hours to mastering my craft. I'm mostly self-taught with perfect pitch, and I now perform 4-hour live sets at a Music Walk which features local musicians, where I captivate crowds with my mashup of 10 iconic guitar solos from the 1980s. (A live performance of the Mashup is included for your consideration) I compose original music, with seven of my own songs so far, and I perform on 6, 7 and 8-string guitars, as well as 4, 6, and fretless bass guitars. Recently, I've been expanding my musical range by learning keys and drums.

Just a few days ago I learned that I will be one of the youngest (if not the youngest) guitarists to appear in the Jared Dines' Worldwide Shred collaboration, where I was chosen as one of 15 featured guitarists out of over 1,200 entries. I will be sharing the virtual YouTube stage in a final YouTube video with some of my biggest inspirations – which is an incredible honor.

On social media, I've built a community nearing 20,000 followers, and I connect with fans through YouTube livestreams and content - where I am proud to share that I am YouTube partner meeting all the requirements of monetization. On my livestreams I improvise for hours over backing tracks selected by my followers and audience. (All past Live sessions are on my YouTube channel – where I recently played Moonlight 13 times in a row!!!)
 

Sharing my love for music drives me, and I believe my story of resilience and passion will resonate with your audience. I'm excited for the opportunity to perform on America's Got Talent and show what hard work, dedication, and love for music can achieve.

Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to the chance to perform for you.

Sincerely,

Tyler Shep