Criss Oliva

Christopher "Criss" Michael Oliva (April 3, 1963 - October 17, 1993) was born in Pompton Plains, NJ. He was the lead guitarist in, and co-founder of, the band Savatage. Criss was the youngest of four children, the next eldest being brother Jon Oliva, with whom he formed the band. His family moved around the country during his childhood, stopping off in California before making Florida their home. It was in California that Criss found music and considered it his calling, and continued his musical interests when he moved to Florida. He spent countless hours figuring out his favorite songs on records, and when he found it difficult to figure out a part on the record he just made up his own licks. This would later help him in his...