Criss Oliva was born on April 3rd, 1963

Written by: Cassandra Blake

The Shredding Legacy of Criss Oliva: Savatage's Guitar Virtuoso

Criss Oliva, the enigmatic lead guitarist and co-founder of the iconic heavy metal band Savatage, left an indelible mark on the music world with his lightning-fast solos and face-melting riffs. As the driving force behind Savatage's sound, Oliva's innovative playing style and songwriting prowess helped shape the band's distinctive blend of heavy metal, power metal, and progressive rock.

Early Life and Influences

Born on April 3, 1963, Oliva's family relocated frequently during his childhood, settling in Florida after stints in California. It was in California that Oliva discovered his passion for music, which he pursued relentlessly in Florida. His guitar heroes, Ritchie Blackmore, Tony Iommi, Uli Jon Roth, and Michael Schenker, played a significant role in shaping his style.

The Birth of Savatage

In 1978, Oliva and his brother Jon formed their first band, Avatar, which later evolved into Savatage. The brothers recruited Steve Wacholz (aka Doctor Hardware Killdrums) and jammed in their backyard shack, dubbed "The Pit." With Keith Collins joining in 1981, the band released their debut EP on Par Records in 1982. A name change was necessitated due to copyright issues, and Savatage was born.

Rise to Prominence

Savatage released their first two albums, Sirens (1983) and The Dungeons Are Calling (1985), on Par Records, showcasing Oliva's virtuosic guitar work and the band's eclectic sound. This period saw Savatage establishing themselves as a formidable force in the heavy metal underground.

Legacy and Impact

Oliva's untimely death in 1993 shocked the music world, but his influence resonates to this day. Savatage's music has inspired countless bands, including power metal giants like Blind Guardian and Helloween. Oliva's innovative approach to guitar playing and songwriting continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

• Did you know that Oliva's guitar playing was heavily influenced by his favorite records? He would spend hours figuring out his favorite songs, and when he couldn't, he'd create his own licks, which later contributed to his songwriting skills.
• Savatage's iconic album, Hall of the Mountain King (1987), was partially recorded in the Oliva family's backyard shed, adding to the band's DIY ethos.

Personal Milestones and Tragedy

On October 17, 1993, Oliva's life was tragically cut short in a car accident. His legacy lives on through the music he created and the countless lives he touched with his art.

In conclusion, Criss Oliva's remarkable journey, though cut short, left an indelible mark on the heavy metal landscape. His innovative guitar playing, songwriting prowess, and unwavering dedication to his craft continue to inspire and influence the music world.