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I believe that is the most interesting quote that I have read regarding a legacy. “I never want to be a moment”. Yet, that is what many artists are seeking. They want their moment to shine. For some, they shine bright. Then all the fame, fortune, and glory fades away. The light dims and they become nostalgia for a period. It is quite sad. Admittedly, these artists do work hard at creating their spotlight. I have worked with some of them in the past. I know the amount of time and money that is invested in heading down a path to stardom. Somewhere along the way, their mindset changes, and they fail to reflect upon the bigger picture. When they gain success, they value their “moment” and forget to focus on a legacy.
Not all artists are about the moment. Some have experienced an abundance of success and continue to work the elements that got them there. Even it requires adapting. Artists that have focused on their legacy are more inclined to master the transition through decades of popular sounds, styles, and trends.
I think of bands like U2, Duran Duran, Bruce Springsteen, INXS, Aerosmith, Rollingstones, Michael Jackson, Madonna, Van Halen, and more. These are the bands that were able to buck the trends and continued building upon their talent to create a legacy. Their other bands that built a legacy for themselves but never succeeded to adapt to the current trends. In fact, they were the bands and artists that inspire artists to this date. Bands like Led Zeppelin, Rush, AC/DC, Iron Maiden, and The Beetles. We both know that there are more artists that built a legacy for themselves like Elvis Presley, Gordon Lightfoot, Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson, and Patsy Cline. Just within one paragraph we barely touched the number of bands or artists that built for themselves a legacy. However, they all had one thing in common and that was the importance of singing for a lifetime.
If you are concerned about creating a legacy, please see the following link for 5 simple steps to build your legacy. Which is applicable to a career in music.
https://www.craiggoldblatt.com/5-simple-steps-to-build-your-legacy/
An artist that we have admired for many years is Orianthi. She is an artist that has adapted through the years and triumphed over all challenges. She is focused on a lifetime of musical achievements. Not just a moment I the minds of music lovers. We had an opportunity to chat with her last year on a topic called: A rock legend continues to defy a competitive industry.
If you didn’t know much about Orianthi we will take some time to get to know her and the things that impacted her life as musician.
Orianthi was born on January 22, 1985, and raised in Melbourne. His father used to play in a Greek band and all over the house there were his father’s musical instruments. As a result, Orianthi developed a keen interest in music when he was only six years old, while five years later she already had great dexterity playing the electric guitar.
Growing up in the 80s, a decade remembered for its many guitar greats, Orianthi also listened to a lot of Whitesnake, Van Halen and Def Leppard. Her father, who used to be a player in a Greek band, also kept plenty of instruments around the house, and it didn’t take long before Orianthi strummed her first chord.
Mastering the six-string came naturally. When I was 11, Carlos Santana came to play Adelaide and that show really affected me,” she recounts. “I begged my dad to get me a second-hand electric guitar so I could be like Carlos, and that was it, no more acoustic. After that, I would buy all of Carlos’ videos — on VHS! — which I kept rewinding to try and learn his solos.
Orianthi was a member of several local Adelaide bands since she was 14 years old, at age 15 she leaves school to concentrate on writing and singing her own songs. Her first public appearance was in support of Italian American singer and guitarist Steve Vai. At age 14 she released her first album, “Under the Influence,” which consists of versions composed by musicians who have inspired her since she was a child.
When she was 18 years old, she had the opportunity to meet and play with Carlos Santana in her hometown in Adelaide, who asked him to join her on stage and orianthi played with Carlos Santana the entire concert. Later in life, Orianthi Panagaris would go on to perform with some of best guitarists in the world. Several times she has worked and collaborated with Alice Cooper, Steve Vai, Michael Jackson, Carlos Santana, Michael Bolton, Prince, ZZ Top, Adam Lambert, Carrie Underwood, John Mayer, Dave Stewart, and many more international artists.
There is so much more to Orianthi that neither this interview of summary in the about section is will cover. For more information visit her website at www.orianthi.me
Earlier this year we had the opportunity to interview Orianthi. It was right at the point, when she was launching her album Rock Candy. Click on the link to follow up with the previous interview.
https://www.guitarthrills.com/interviews-4/orianthi-interview-xwc84
In the previous interview Guitar Thrills Magazine asked the following question: Any show or performance can lag, especially if your stage presence isn’t stellar. Unfortunately, you can see it in the artists stage presence. When it comes to stage presence, artists should really look to you as a mentor or guidance. You truly, understand the importance of stage presence. It isn’t enough to just sing well. An audience wants to be entertained as well. I think you have that down to a science. When did you figure out the importance of stage presence?
Orianthi: I’ve been a big Elvis fan since I was 6, he was one of the best. It’s all about command and feeling in control even though everything could go terribly wrong haha you just have to own it. Everything, mistakes, guitars falling, strings breaking, hair extensions being ripped out by your bass players tuning pegs ha it’s all entertaining.
You noticed that one of her big influences was Elvis? An artist that created a huge legacy for himself. One that will never be forgotten. I believe Orianthi has a comparable influence on those that are growing up in the music industry. Though Orianthi is near being done. She is not about the moment, but her Legacy.
Guitar Thrills: Hello Orianthi, I want to start by thanking you for joining us again for an interview. I know your schedule is extremely busy. This topic about creating a legacy is important. We know that you are focused on a long-term solution for your career goals in the music industry. When did you get your big break in the music industry?
Orianthi: I started playing. Guitar when I was 6 years old. I was obsessed with songs, my dad had an amazing record collection I’d get lost in.
From Roy Orbison the Beatles cream Bb king Hendrix santana
I recorded an album when I was 14 that got a bit of buzz and was featured I. Guitar magazines around the world with reviews. I quite school when I was 14, opened for Steve vai and zz too in Australia and then. Carlos Santana invited onstage when I was 18. I played in 3 cover bands at the time also. And writing a lot. I had the opportunity through Paul Reed Smith to come over to play at NAMM. Then I recorded, produced, and played every instrument on a record called violet journey which landed me a deal with Interscope records at 19. Then I moved over to the US.
Guitar Thrills: You mentioned that Elvis had a big influence on you from the age of 6. In what specific ways have you that inspiration to further your career in the music industry?
Orianthi: Elvis was the ultimate entertainer plus he was soulful too, he lived for music and for the show. I feel most comfortable onstage. He really inspired me a lot.
Guitar Thrills: Did you ever think you would be able to make a huge impact like Elvis?
Orianthi: I hope so, to receive so many messages daily how my music has impacted peoples lives and inspired them to turn to music has meant a lot. I still haven’t made my best record yet but it’s coming.
Guitar Thrills: What do you think is the reasoning behind some artists who get wrapped up in the moment?
Orianthi: It’s all about getting wrapped up in the moment. Life is a about many moments strung together ... finding joy, inspiration, no regrets stepping out of your comfort.
Guitar Thrills: When did you decide that a Legacy was important to you? Did you ever think that your music career would be momentary?
Orianthi: I’m not stopping anytime soon. Music is what I’m here to create. There are many shows to play and record to put out.
Guitar Thrills: What specific decisions were instrumental in furthering your music career?
Orianthi: When big opportunities come around jumping into the deep and doing your best is crucial for growth. It’s not an ego thing, it’s artistry. It’s expansion. People take notice when u truly mean what you play or say.
Guitar Thrills: That is awesome feedback from you. Our readers who also encompass artists, will appreciate your input.
Guitar Thrills: Last year. You were promoting the album, Rock Candy. I thought it was an EPIC release. How did it turn out and did it meet or exceed your expectations?
Orianthi: Jacob Bunton and I wrote and produced that record in 15 days. It was so fun; Jacob is so talented and one of my best friends. It was easy to make. It was honest. I went though some heartbreak; I was needing to vent. it was a dark time but that was the light being able to create. I’m happy people connected with it.
Guitar Thrills: What about now. What are you working on, and when can we anticipate its release?
Orianthi: A new album, I think it will be my best yet, new sounds. It’s been weird these past few years. I’m challenging myself musically and experimenting.
Guitar Thrills: I understand that you have a new guitar brand that you are working with? Do you still sling the PRS brand on stage, or is Gibson now your “go to” guitar? What is it about Gibson that makes it so special to you?
Orianthi: Both. I love PRS. It’s the first guitar I took to after watching Carlos Santana. Gibson I absolutely love too. they both have strengths and distinct personalities. I love my new models. It is an honor to work with such prestigious companies and wonderful people.
Guitar Thrills: No matter what brand you are using, you can rock it, on stage and in the studio. You are a true professional and a master musician.
Orianthi: Thank you so much.
Guitar Thrills: I look forward to your next release. We will do what we can to promote it as well. Please stay in touch and let us know if there is anything we can do. We are always willing to get in volved with promoting a top-of-the-line artist like yourself. I encourage you to continue to focus on your legacy as you have been doing. Thank you for your time.
Orianthi: I really appreciate your support! Much love and light and I can’t wait to share what’s next. In the meantime, lots of shows coming up. Head over to orianthi.me for date.
