If you follow the Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma on Instagram, you’ve probably noticed his love for playing the electric guitar and how it is one of his favourite hobbies. In a video posted by him last week, Sangma showcased his musical prowess by playing the tune of ‘Wasted Years,’ a song by the English heavy metal band Iron Maiden. Performed at the Roof Top Cafe in Tura on December 26, it was part of a reunion of his rock band ‘Saga’.

Conrad Sangma, who is the 12th Chief Minister of Meghalaya, assumed office in 2018. The politician was seen playing the electric guitar with full enthusiasm on stage at a cafe as the audience cheered for him. “Another rocking night. Iron Maiden this time,” Sangma said in the caption of his post. The crowd was captivated by this unexpected fusion of heavy metal and governance, which offered a welcome insight into the complex character of the public figure. 

Also Read: Explore The Musical Journey Of Burrah

The Reactions

Sangma’s performance featuring resonant chords, not only showcased his musical abilities but also provided a distinctive link between politics and the throbbing intensity of rock music. As the video went viral with thousands of views, social media users applauded Sangma in the comments section of his post. “You nailed it, sir,” a user said. Another comment reads, “Once a rockstar, always a rockstar.” People crowned him as the “Coolest CM.“

“I think The youth of Meghalaya are very fortunate that you have such a Chief Minister” commented a fan. Another wrote, “Sir you are the best every one should learn from you.” Impressed by Sangma’s performance, Mahindra Group’s chairman Anand Mahindra invited the 45-year-old to the Mahindra Blues Festival in February 2024. “Uber cool… we need you…” Mahindra wrote on X.

However, this is not the first time when the National People’s Party leader made headlines over his love for guitar. Sangma often shares videos of himself playing the guitar over social media. Known for his affinity for music and love for the band, CM Conrad had performed another Iron Maiden classic in a video for his followers back in 2020. “After a hectic 3-day Assembly session. unwinding with Some Iron Maiden stuff. It’s been a long while I haven’t played so I guess a few mistakes,” he wrote in the caption.

Iron Maiden

Iron Maiden was formed in East London in 1975 by renowned musician Steve Harris. “Wasted Years” is Iron Maiden’s fourteenth single and in fact, is the only song from their album “Somewhere in Time” that doesn’t feature synthesizers. It was written by guitarist Adrian Smith, who also provided vocals to the song and played the guitar solo.

CM Conrad Sangma Iron Maiden wasted years

Politicians are usually looked up to as people with immense power and responsibility. But seeing such a human side of them instills a deeper connection amongst the audience. That performance by CM Conrad Sangma was indeed ‘rock’ing!