CHRISTOPHER
MICHAEL
OLIVA
MEMORIAL
WALL
| Entries January to February 1998 |
| Go to Current Entries |
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Over the years e-mail to the website has been filled with messages from fans
in various parts of the world expressing
their feelings on Criss. It is a long healing process and there are many
others that share the same feelings. The Criss Oliva Memorial Wall
is dedicated to openly sharing these feelings. Not only will you benefit
from sharing your feelings, but others reading them will too.
Thanks for reading Criss' Wall. |
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View entries from : Oct - Dec 1997 September 1997 Jul 20 - Aug 31 1997 |
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Thank you for this beautiful Page and we (me and my friends in our school are real SAVA-FANS) want to thank C. and J. Olivia and all the other members of Savatage for there music. We hope you will continue with the band and you will come to Germany for another great concert. 25.10.1997 Würzburg was the best concert in our lives. ... and still the orchestra plays Borken, Hessen Germany - Saturday, February 28, 1998 at 15:18:35 (EST) |
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I have always been a fan of Savatage and the Guitar Riffs got a hold on me. He inspired me to play the guitar and showed me that do not let anything stand in the way. Coon Rapids, MN USA - Friday, February 27, 1998 at 13:41:20 (EST) |
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No guitarist or musician has influenced me or my band more than Criss. I met him just a month and a half before he died. Criss, God bless you for giving me your music. I can honestly say as a fan that I love you and I miss you. My thoughts and blessings are with Dawn, Jon, the rest of the family and the band. T Orange, TX USA - Thursday, February 26, 1998 at 23:42:07 (EST) |
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"Streets" got me hooked on the way Jon and Criss communicated to the listener, and to each other, through their music. i am a writer/keyboardist, and my brother plays guitar, though we have never gotten the opportunity to explore each other's souls through music the way that they did. Seeing Jon and Criss play live was one of the rare treats of my life. The last time i saw Savatage was shortly before Criss' exit, but i remain a fan, am blessed by the fact that Savatage continues to thrive beyond adversity. Though Criss has passed beyond the veil, he remains here with all of us, through the very method he has always been here...by us pushing . Now, the gods get a chance to enjoy him, as well. (i listen to "If I Go Away" as i write this.) To Savatage, i say, "i, for one, Believe." Blessed Be, Jon! Keep writing to us in your lyrics. They touch us, and perhaps more than you will ever know! OH USA - Thursday, February 26, 1998 at 09:48:07 (EST) |
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This is for you Criss..... 1.The Lord is my shepherd, I shall not be in want. 2.He makes me lie down in green pastures, He leads me beside quiet waters, 3.he restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake. 4.Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me. 5.You prepare a table for me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows. 6.Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the Lord for ever. Rest in peace. Bismarck, ND USA - Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 13:32:07 (EST) |
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Criss, your fingers still play into my heart and I know your music and every deed of yours will leave forefer. I ALWAYS SEE YOU ON THE EDGE OF DAWN. Romans d'Isonzo, GO Italy - Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 13:27:30 (EST) |
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that is not dead which can eternal lie ,yet with strange aeons even death may die.We'll never forget you.your songs will live for evermore Luton, england - Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 09:36:13 (EST) |
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criss died on my birthday..... USA - Wednesday, February 25, 1998 at 01:48:33 (EST) |
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you don`t know what you mean to me or for all of your fans here in egypt only the great remain and you will remain in heart and history for evevr i think they gonna make play the guitar in heaven cus you r a heavenly made till i meet you in the sky.....i miss you!! tanta, egypt - Tuesday, February 24, 1998 at 21:43:52 (EST) |
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hey CRISS, ONLY REASON I WANNA GO TO HEAVEN IS YOU..CAUSE I KNOW YOU ARE THERE..THANKS FOR THE AWESOME MUSIC YOU MADE ...GOD BLESS YOU.. ISTANBUL, TURKEY - Sunday, February 22, 1998 at 14:32:27 (EST) |
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hey CRISS, ONLY REASON I WANNA GO TO HEAVEN IS YOU..CAUSE I KNOW YOU ARE THERE..THANKS FOR THE AWESOME MUSIC YOU MADE ...GOD BLESS YOU.. ISTANBUL, TURKEY - Sunday, February 22, 1998 at 14:29:05 (EST) |
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a truely gifted guitarist he was,a terrible tragedy claimed yet another musician, criss man you are sorely missed by my self as well as all savatage fans and fellow guitarists dude you had a profound impact on my playing 13 years ago and till this day you are still there in my playing and my heart you will be remembered R.I.P. buddy New Haven, CT. USA - Saturday, February 21, 1998 at 21:55:21 (EST) |
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His music was greatand made ae want to start playing guiter. McComb, MS USA - Saturday, February 21, 1998 at 06:49:50 (EST) |
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Criss died the same year my sister died in the age of 30 years old. I know how hard it is to continue without someone who's a part of yourself. From the 80's till now I'm a great fan of Savatage and I've seen them several times in 'De Noordeligt' Tilburg and on Dynamo festival Eindhoven. I remember the moments with Criss and Jon on the stage. But I'm also glad that after Criss death the band is still on the wagon and doing great performances. Greetings, especially to Jon Marco Bouten Utrecht m.bouten@tip.nl Utrecht, utr The Netherlands - Saturday, February 21, 1998 at 04:52:21 (EST) |
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About Criss, well, I don't have much, he is the best guitar wizard, and Jon, carry on! Criss is still alive in our hearts, go on, we are waiting for Savatage in Brazil. São Paulo, SP Brazil - Friday, February 20, 1998 at 13:14:40 (EST) |
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When I started to hear Savatage and Criss was in 1996 with the Gutter Ballet album. The music of Criss was very nice, powerful and strong. Now I have all the CDs of Savatage, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Dr. Butcher and I think that Criss was one of the best musicians and guitarrists of the XX Century. A big lost for the music's world. Thanks Criss for your music. Your musical feeling playing guitar will live in the heart of the sava-fans. Albacete, Spain Spain - Friday, February 20, 1998 at 06:18:32 (EST) |
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Thanks 4 every note you have played Your music still lives on Treviso, Veneto Italy - Thursday, February 19, 1998 at 17:16:05 (EST) |
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"Hey there you, way out there in the distance, can you hear me?" Criss, I never knew you, but I feel as though I did. Through your music, you spoke to me, and made me feel better. There will never be another like you. "When the crowds are gone, and I'm all alone, playing a final song", that song will more than likely be something you wrote. "I don't know where the years have gone, memories can only last so long, like faded photographs, forgotten songs and the things I never knew". But the memory of you, Criss Oliva, and the music you created will never be forgotten. God bless you, Criss. You will be missed. Morehead City, NC USA - Wednesday, February 18, 1998 at 18:14:34 (EST) |
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"...and the lights, turn ´em off my friend, ´cause in the dark it´s easier to see..." overtornea, sweden - Monday, February 16, 1998 at 13:09:47 (EST) |
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I just wanted to clarify "I will never let him go in my heart" RIP Criss North Bend, OR USA - Monday, February 16, 1998 at 13:03:52 (EST) |
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you were ours for awhile but heaven holds you now the play has just begun there but here you took you final bow we all love you and miss you see you at the ending of the final play conyers, ga USA - Monday, February 16, 1998 at 03:25:19 (EST) |
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Only two guitar players I have ever heard, Criss Oliva and John Petrucci, have so truely used their instrument as an extension of their emotions. Criss Oliva, may he rest in peace, will always be a part of me. Hey man, you made a difference in my life, and for that I thank you!! I only hope I too can make such an impression. Isn't that what life's about, passing on a piece of yourself? Louisville, KY USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 21:30:02 (EST) |
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I find my self at a loss for the words to express how I feel about Criss, and his music has touched my life in so many ways. His music runs through me and heals my soul, when I am down and feel depressed I listen to songs like "Streets" If I go away, Somewhere in time, Believe "Gutter Ballet" She's in Love, When the Crowds are Gone, Summers Rain When I am angry I Listen to songs like "Gutter Ballet" of rage and war, Hounds "Hall of the Mountain King" Devastation, Legions and could name many more songs and albums that mean so much to me. No matter how I am feeling or what mood I am in Savatage makes me feel better, and Criss's guitar solo's tear through my very soul like lightning. I fear that my words or any words fall short of describing how I feel, I know that Criss is in a very safe and warm place, but I will forever miss him and his music. If scars are the wounds that show then mine is there for all the world to see, and I hope time heals me for I will never let him go. North Bend, OR USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 21:15:29 (EST) |
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I've been playing Guitar for 15 years (a metal head with a degree in music) and Criss was/is my biggest influence. My band covers more Savatage songs then any other band. I've missed him dearly. RIP man! North Bend, OR USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 20:14:52 (EST) |
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Criss had a profound influence on my life and on the lives of many of my friends. Criss influenced me to pick up a guitar and start writing. I am now in a ver successful local band and I owe it all to him. He is greatly missed by me and my good friend and drummer, Matt Kampman. God bless you Criss, Scott Butler Highlands Ranch, CO USA - Sunday, February 15, 1998 at 04:39:20 (EST) |
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CRISS.. YOU WILL ALWAYS BE ALIVE IN MY HEART AND SOUL.. HEAVY METAL IN THE HALL OF THE MOUNTAIN KING,MY FRIEND.. HAIL.. P.S SAVATAGE IS MY FAVOURITE BAND SINCE I STARTED LISTENING HEAVY METAL..AND THEY SURE GOING TO CONTINUE TO BE.. CRISS IS ALIVE IN THE HEARTS OF ALL METAL FANS ATHENS, HELLAS - Saturday, February 14, 1998 at 14:27:06 (EST) |
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I«ll be always hearing your music. Savatage songs have
changed my life and my rock«n roll concept. I hope you have
a good rest. S‹o Bernardo, SP Brazil - Saturday, February 14, 1998 at 14:17:54 (EST) |
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I have delayed posting a message here for a long time. The reason? Words do not exist that can begin to state the loss, the absolute loss I felt when I heard of Chriss' passing. The thought that his creative influence will never be felt by the world again is staggering. We are left with the what ifs and I find them to be vast and empty spaces that are poor substitutes for what once was. Hey there you way out there in the distance......Thank you. Jeff binghamton, ny USA - Friday, February 13, 1998 at 14:18:22 (EST) |
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Rest In Peace Criss! Budapest, Hungary - Friday, February 13, 1998 at 10:27:12 (EST) |
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Many years ago a small boy with short hair and not too many friends went by himself to see a Ronnie James Dio concert with Megadeth opening up. That night at the West Palm Beach Auditorium was a turning point in his life. You see, there was another band playing there that night, and a year and a half later, when this young lad finally found that band's album in a store, he still remembered all the words, and felt all the melodies. I was that little boy, and Savatage was that band. More than just a "metal" band, Savatage spoke to me. When i heard Criss was gone, I went back and started listening to my collection from the begining. I cried the whole time. I still miss you, Criss, but at least I can now listen to Hall of the Mountain King without tears. Rock on forever, my friend, because as long as there is breath in me, you will never die. Jonesboro, AR USA - Thursday, February 12, 1998 at 09:11:32 (EST) |
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I share your feelings about Chris.He was a talented musician and all the metal fans mourn.However,you servived and made some good albums, but the last is SHIT. Where are the solos that he put to your music ? USA - Thursday, February 12, 1998 at 05:00:07 (EST) |
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I saw Savatage back in Aug.'93 on the Edge of Thorns tour. Criss' playing had always been a big influence on mine. I always used his guitar tone on the albums as a guide in creating my own sound. His tone always had such an unbelievable thickness and chunk...it was the ultimate metal guitar sound! At the time of his passing, I was playing in Southeast Texas prog-metal band, Bastille. We decided to play "Edge of Thorns" as a cover in our set list. As the final piano melody wound down,...we would tell the crowed "That one was for Criss!" God Bless, Scott Draughon Feb.98 Groves, TX USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 20:37:35 (EST) |
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I saw Savatage back in Aug.'93 on the Edge of Thorns tour. Criss' playing had always been a big influence on mine. I always used his guitar tone on the albums as a guide in creating my own sound. His tone always had such an unbelievable thickness and chunk...it was the ultimate metal guitar sound! At the time of his passing, I was playing in Southeast Texas prog-metal band, Bastille. We decided to play "Edge of Thorns" as a cover in our set list. As the final piano melody wound down,...we would tell the crowed "That one was for Criss!" God Bless, Scott Draughon Feb.98 Groves, TX USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 20:37:10 (EST) |
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I just recently started listening to Savatage. One of my buddies introduced them to me over the summer. I went out that night and bought the EDGE OF THORNS cd. It was the most awesome instrumental and vocal piece I ever heard. I still listen to it all of the time. Everything I read from the other entries on this wall is the complete and total truth. Criss had a lot of dedicated fans and his music will never die. Salem, IN USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 16:19:45 (EST) |
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He is still missed. Even with being replaced by Al Pitrelli and Alex Skolnick it is not the same. Both are amazing guitarist but can not fill the shoes of Chriss. Allentown, PA USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 13:36:54 (EST) |
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He is still missed. Even with the replaced of Al Pitrelli and Alex Skolnick it is not the same. Both are amazing guitarist but can not fill the shoes of Chriss. Allentown, PA USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 13:35:38 (EST) |
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I am an old guy. I saw Jimi Hendrix 3 times. I have seen all the rock guitar "masters" - Page, Clapton, etc. I have seen three generations of rock guitarists up to the current crop of Satriani, Vai, Van Halen, etc. I got into Savatage about 4 years ago when a friend of mine heard "Chance" on Z-Rock. When I started listening to the old Savasongs, I began to listen to Criss very closely. Alas, I never got to see him. I then saw some videos of him playing live. He never seemed to make a mistake!! I have never in all my years of watching and listening to (and trying to play!!) rock guitarists seen anyone that was so fast, so clean and play with such pure passion. I'm not saying this because he is gone, but that is a fact, as I see it. Criss was simply the best I ever saw or heard. To Dawn, Jon and all Criss' family, please accept my heartfelt sympathies. If he lived his life as he played guitar, he was surely a remarkable person. Also to Jon and all the different lineups of Savatage - thanks all of you for carrying on. For if you hadn't, people like me would have never discovered Criss' genius. Savatage had and has one common thread through all the years - Jon's words. I still hear Criss through those words. You two have changed a lot of people's live for the better. Thank both of you. Houston, TX USA - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 11:16:10 (EST) |
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The most emotional guitar playing I've ever heard. One of the greatest composers in modern times. A great loss for the music nation... Athens, Greece - Wednesday, February 11, 1998 at 11:07:35 (EST) |
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I never really got to know Savatage that well, until my boyfriend played me the song that changed his life: "All That I Bleed". Criss had a very heavy impact on him. Up to now, whenever he plays the song, tears fill his eyes. Dagupan City, Philippines - Tuesday, February 10, 1998 at 12:02:54 (EST) |
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Criss Oliva was a great guitarist, musically and technically. I just wished he were still alive to know how much people loved him. Dagupan City, Philippines - Tuesday, February 10, 1998 at 11:58:54 (EST) |
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I cried hearing 'When The Crowds Are Gone'... Hail Criss, wherever you can be now... Jau, SP BRAZIL USA - Monday, February 09, 1998 at 17:33:37 (EST) |
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I first got into Savatage in '94 after hearing "All That I Bleed" on the "Edge Of Thorns" album. Criss Oliva is one of my main influences as a rock guitarist. I just felt so pissed off when I heard he died so soon. Rock music will never be the same without him.
Criss may be gone, but forever he will remain in my heart as the reason and inspiration to pick up a guitar and play... Criss, wherever you are, YOU CHANGED MY LIFE, and I owe you one for that. Avon Park, FL USA - Monday, February 09, 1998 at 15:19:40 (EST) |
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Hello Legioneers! My best wishes to Savatage in carrying on the music and the "spirit of Criss", the Sava-fans, and the family of the band!! Please feel free and don't hesitate to contact me any time.... Warmest Regards, Chad Allan Edwards Crawfordsville, IN USA - Monday, February 09, 1998 at 14:24:38 (EST) |
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Long Live Criss...your soul will never die Nicosia, Cyprus - Sunday, February 08, 1998 at 07:06:36 (EST) |
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Long Live Criss...your soul will never die Nicosia, Cyprus - Sunday, February 08, 1998 at 07:06:09 (EST) |
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I discovered Savatage when I saw "Hall Of The Mountain King" on Headbanger's Ball. Since that solo, I devoted my guitarwork to the greatest guitarist, Criss Oliva. I never heard someone who was had his sound so perfect. As I grew older, I grew buying my Savatage albums with joy. Each album opened a new sound for me. Once I heard the loss of the great Criss, I couldn't grasp the fact that a great guitarist and composer was robbed from us. Sometimes the worst things happen to the greatest people. All I can end with is he is the best, and no one can take that away..... "Because in the dark... it's easier... to see" Ridgefield, NJ USA - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 23:09:01 (EST) |
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Very few guitarists have had such a profound influence on my playing as Criss. My only hope is that I can be half as good and that in some way the influence will enable you to live on. Basildon, UK - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 20:46:32 (EST) |
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For once I would've loved to see Chris Olivia at concert one time.Chris was one of the greatest players,had the coolest gutairs there could be,and deserved to get more respect.My dad saw you twice in concert twice before he died.I am still one of his greatest fans.I have almost every one of the albumbs with Chris Olivia.In honer of Chris ,he was the greatest gutair player there ever was. Orlando, Florida USA - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 16:39:53 (EST) |
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For once I would've loved to see Chris Olivia at concert one time.Chris was one of the greatest players,had the coolest gutairs there could be,and deserved to get more respect.My dad saw you twice in concert twice before he died.I am still one of his greatest fans.I have almost every one of the albumbs with Chris Olivia.In honer of Chris he was the the greatest gutair player. Orlando, Florida USA - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 16:36:41 (EST) |
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Criss, you were the best,your guitarsound was superb,the sound of Savatage is the I ever heard. Your death came as a true shock, and i hope, where ever you are, your still playing as hte best. Your sound will live on forever, I'll never forget you. To the family, i wish you the best in the years to come Sas van Gent, ZL The Netherlands - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 10:27:47 (EST) |
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Criss, you were the best,your guitarsound was superb,the sound of Savatage is the I ever heard. Your death came as a true shock, and i hope, where ever you are, your still playing as hte best. Your sound will live on forever, I'll never forget you. To the family, i wish you the best in the years to come Sas van Gent, ZL The Netherlands - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 10:25:23 (EST) |
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I met Savatage after a show in Denver at After the Gold Rush. They were touring behind Edge of Thorns. I was on the bus with Criss and the others and we chatted. They seemed young.. and really nice, sharing what they had and friendly to us possibly instrusive fans. It was my birthday, September 1993. I was shattered when I heard the news of his death. I still have the autographed cover of my Edge of Thorns tape on the wall. The next time they came to town Alex was with them. I interviewed the band (same club) and asked Johnny M how he was doing. He told me about the day of Criss death, living across the street, the police... and how he was going to quit the band. Then he said he realized he couldn't let the band continue with "someone else playing his part". It was still a source of grief to him. I hung out on the bus with Jon O after the show for a bit and watched him get high...and wondered what the future held for them all. Now it is 1998, and they seem to be ok. But I remember talking to Criss about that album, and his wife on the cover, and his shy pride... Denver, CO USA - Saturday, February 07, 1998 at 06:08:14 (EST) |
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Chris Rocks Nuff Said Seattle, Wa USA - Friday, February 06, 1998 at 23:10:45 (EST) |
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Criss Oliva was one of the best guitarists to date. He will be sorely missed by Savatage fans and musicians. Life will not be the same without him. Criss, We miss you. You will live in our hearts forever. Coraopolis , PA USA - Wednesday, February 04, 1998 at 16:47:37 (EST) |
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CRISS IS A UNIQUE PERSON HE IS NOT DEAD HE IS LIVING IN OUR MINDS AND IN OUR HEARTS.HE WILL ALWAYS SHOW US THE WAY TO A BETTER LIFE THROUGH HIS MOUSIC. Athens Hellas, - Wednesday, February 04, 1998 at 07:58:24 (EST) |
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This only is a short notice, as no words can express my pain of loosing an unique person, Criss Oliva. The only comfort is that`s he`s always there through the wonderful music he created. Criss, you`ll live forever in our hearts! "And if I go away What would still remain of me The ghost within your eyes The whisper in your sights You see Believe And I`m always there" Annette Eggenfelden, Germany - Wednesday, February 04, 1998 at 06:31:29 (EST) |
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I STARTED LISTENING TO SAVATAGE WHEN DEAD WINTER DEAD CAME OUT. I ORDERED IT THROUGH A CD CLUB AFTER READING THE REVIEWS. I THAUGHT THIS WAS THEIR FIRST ALBUM! I THEN WENT TO A MUSIC STORE AND FOUND GUTTER BALLET. FROM THEN ON I HAVE BEEN LISTENING TO ANYTHING I COULD GET MY HANDS ON FROM THIS BAND. CRISS WAS A GREAT GUITAR PLAYER AND HIS MUSIC WILL LIVE ON AS LONG AS WE CONTINUE TO LISTEN TO IT. THIS BAND IS THE MOST TALLENTED BAND I HAVE EVER HEARD AND FAR SURPASSES ALL OF THE "POPULAR" BANDS. THEIRE MUSIC IS REAL AND THAT IS WHAT REALY MATTERS. THE WAKE OF MAGELLAN IS THE BEST YET AND I HOPE THEY WILL MAKE MANY NEW ALBUMS FOR YEARS TO COME. -JASON KLOOS 20 BRUNSWICK, OH USA - Tuesday, February 03, 1998 at 17:43:41 (EST) |
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Criss was an excellent guitarist. I especially liked his work on Edge Of Thorns. USA - Tuesday, February 03, 1998 at 10:23:51 (EST) |
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I would just like to thank you for everything. Your music will always be guiding us into the light of a much better world. SAVATAGE FOR EVER!!!!!!! Bergen, Norway - Tuesday, February 03, 1998 at 07:16:28 (EST) |
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Criss thank you for the music, your memory lives with us. Tórshavn, Faroe Islands - Monday, February 02, 1998 at 08:14:25 (EST) |
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I MISS YOU CHRISS ----------- SEE YOU IN HEAVEN . R.P. IN TAMPA ------------ TAMPA, FL USA - Monday, February 02, 1998 at 07:22:33 (EST) |
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Criss you always knew how to capture all the emotions with a few strokes of the pick,you are very dear to me in a weird kinda way. After reading all these memorials I have trouble fighting back the tears, as I read on dilligently as a true SAVATAGE fan would R.I.P. buddy "and the lights turn them off my freind, and the ghosts we`ll just let them in, cus in the dark it`s easier to see" to Jon and Dawn my sincerest condolences my heart goes out to you both & Jon thanx for keeping SAVATAGE alive Criss would`nt have it any other way so play on till the final reels through thanx for the music New Haven, CT USA - Sunday, February 01, 1998 at 15:52:27 (EST) |
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I had the pleasure of meeting criss and jon at Mc.donalds in California in late 87 i didn`t learn of his passing from this earth until the dedication to him on handful of rain, I was numb for months. He has left behind a legacy and an incredible talent,to which I owe an eternal debt of gratitude to him 4 many years of fine music. AS a guitarist and audio engineer i can relate the to the true passion he had for his craft, He had this certain style and wide range of influences he incorporated into his playing,I will miss him greatly,and thank you for all the music. "Perhaps inside this midnight sky Perhaps tomorrows newborn eyes or then again we`ll never know that after all this was the show" May you rest in peace Criss Oliva thank you for the music New Haven , CT USA - Sunday, February 01, 1998 at 15:09:59 (EST) |
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I might not be able to express my feelings with writing! But, I have to say that a whole gap in the histroy of Metal was made after Criss' death. Criss, God bless your soul. Even if there's no God, may whoever plays with life and death bless your soul and appreciate all the great music that enhanced all Savatage fans. Savatage, thanks a lot for carrying on playing your best music. You know for sure that there are fans out there just dying to hear your music. Criss You've thrown it all away and now we'' never see the ending of the play the grand design the final line and what was meant to be!! Izzy Toronto, ON Canada - Saturday, January 31, 1998 at 23:42:39 (EST) |
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There would be so much more to promised. Nothing will stop power of the greater, And we just roam. Such a passion, such a life. That was too short to be told, but he sure was a legend. and memory will remain, curved into our soul... ceveland, OH USA - Friday, January 30, 1998 at 14:28:16 (EST) |
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Just testing the Wall . thanks Test, AZ USA - Friday, January 30, 1998 at 10:03:02 (EST) |
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It was alittle over 10 years ago when I first heard Savatge...I heard Prelude to Madness/Hall of the Mountain King on Z-ROCK in Cleveland and was instantly taken in...the next day I picked up that album and have been a die-hard fan ever since. Savatage's music has always been in a league of its own. Criss was a guitar god, and played with an emotion most musicians could only dream about. Especially impressed with his work on Street and Edge of Thorns, I was devastated when I heard that Criss had died; no other band had ever gotten to me the way that Savatage did. I am glad that the band has carried on making some of the most innovative metal ever, but it still feels like something is missing. Alex Skolnick, Al Pitrelli, and Chris Caffrey are excellent guitar players, but they all have/had the uneviable task of trying to replace the irreplaceable. And to Criss...you better come come back as a guitarist.... Columbus, OH USA - Wednesday, January 21, 1998 at 11:40:13 (EST) |
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I don't know how to accurately describe the way I feel about Criss's talent and untimely demise. I know nothing about him, other than the few things I have come across regarding his death. My heart goes on to his family and his friends. He had an incredible gift and I feel lucky that he was ever alive at all in order to share that talent with people like me. I don't understand why such wonderful people are taken away from us, but there is not much we can do to change it. We should continue to let Criss live on in our hearts, our memories, and in the music forever. Portivlle, NY USA - Tuesday, January 20, 1998 at 19:29:36 (EST) |
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Well, what to say ! It's a shame good and talented people always go to soon. Thank goodness music lives on forever, so is his spirit. Now that the crowds are gone for him, I hope he can finally rest in peace. It's a shame he never did a twin guitar two handed tapping duel with Eddy van Halen, because I think he would have won. I'm glad Savatage didn't quit, because THE WAKE OF MAGELLAN is the best album of 1997. Cheers and take care Martijn Heinkenszand, ZL The Netherlands - Tuesday, January 20, 1998 at 13:53:59 (EST) |
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Criss, you are the real heavy metal feeling on the guitar. Thanks for all that you played and play on my stereo. Brasília, DF Brasil - Monday, January 19, 1998 at 10:30:24 (EST) |
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Criss, you are the real heavy metal feeling on guitar thanks for all that you play. Brasília, DF Brasil - Monday, January 19, 1998 at 10:27:19 (EST) |
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Criss had to be the ABSOLUTE most underrated musicians in history. Only Sava fans will truly ever know how brilliant he was, and the world deserves to know as well. His music will always live on in his music and in our hearts. To Dawn, Jon, and the rest of the Oliva family, our thoughts are with you all. And if I go away What will still remain of me The ghost within your eyes The whisper in your sighs You see Believe And I'm always there Criss, you will always be with all of us!! Old Bridge, NJ USA - Sunday, January 18, 1998 at 17:35:04 (EST) |
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One day Criss back to earth like a juses.We lost their idol. adana, Turkey - Saturday, January 17, 1998 at 15:26:35 (EST) |
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Thank you. Lublin, Poland - Friday, January 16, 1998 at 11:20:47 (EST) |
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Thanks for your music, Criss !!! SAVATAGE FOREVER !!!!!!! Lublin, Poland - Friday, January 16, 1998 at 11:18:10 (EST) |
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We all miss you Berlin, G Germany - Thursday, January 15, 1998 at 15:42:40 (EST) |
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Like many people, I was introduced to Savatage in 1987 when HOTMK came out, and I've been a fan ever since, but it wasn't until STREETS came out that I was blown away. To this day, it is, and shall always be, one of my favorite albums of all time. I was listening to the radio at work when I learned of Criss's death. My heart sank and I was depressed the rest of the day. My heart goes out to Jon, Dawn, and the rest of the Savatage family. Don't worry, you'll see him soon. He's just waiting patiently for ya. I take comfort knowing that God has Criss and I'll bet anything that he's jammin with him right now. Winston-Salem, NC USA - Monday, January 12, 1998 at 00:11:15 (EST) |
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"Well a time comes for us all, but for some that time comes too soon...For such a tragic remark of society always takes it's toll on the one's for in which we care..." *Dedicated to one of the most influential guitars in history...* Criss Oliva ¿BudGod?™©® Calgary, Ab Canada - Sunday, January 11, 1998 at 06:25:02 (EST) |
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tremolo master! you absolutely givin the feeling of it!man. but all i wish with all mates that you have to release a record to show your virtiosity like the others bye than !!!!! ýstanbul, turkey - Saturday, January 10, 1998 at 13:34:20 (EST) |
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Criss, May your legacy live on forever!!! Thanks for the inspitration, Gus Rio de Janeiro, BRAZIL - Saturday, January 10, 1998 at 00:41:51 (EST) |
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I have been a devoted Savatage fan since I heard the band five years ago. It is true that the good die young. I'm a working musician and my band Arcane Lore is modeled after Savatage. Not to say that we are copying them but we work together in the same way. The chemistry is there. I want to thank Criss for deeply touching my soul and giving me the inspiration to continue on with my work. I never met him but I feel he was a kindred spirit. He seemed to have a lot of class. We seem to approach music in the same way. That combination of feel, passion and thought. Lore is currently doing Devestation live and I always introduce it " This song is dedicated to the memory of Christopher Michael Oliva......DEVESTATION!!!!!!!!!!!" Thank you Criss...........you are remembered in our hearts... Kris"s" Martens R.I.P. SEE YOU ON THE OTHER SIDE................ calgary, ab canada - Friday, January 09, 1998 at 22:37:06 (EST) |
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I can remember as if it were yesterday, buying all the Sav tapes. But one release stays with me. It is "Power of the Night". I bought it and listened to it during a hurricane in Providence, RI. The power was completely out. I proceeded to put batteries in the tape player and listened to that killer recording all night. I then kept going to see Savatage at the then popular "Living Room". I met Chriss there everytime and he was a complete gentleman. I ended up moving to Florida to record with a band. We met again as we recorded at Morrisound. Chriss was doing "Edge of Thorns" while I was recording with my band. He was always so humble. He was and will always be remembered as a great human being, as well as a great player. I'm glad Jon Oliva is still doing a great job carrying on, writing. May God bless Chriss and his family. He is dearly missed. "I Believe" FL USA - Friday, January 09, 1998 at 19:25:57 (EST) |
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we miss you a lot.thanks for everything USA - Friday, January 09, 1998 at 15:20:42 (EST) |
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Criss was a awsome guitarist. May God give him peace. Michael Ballard. rancho cordova, ca USA - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 22:17:59 (EST) |
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We're playing in a band and our main influence is savatage. Criss will live on in his music and in the songs of savatage. And still the orchestra plays...with Criss. Ulm, Germany - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 16:20:12 (EST) |
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I saw Chriss and Savatage live in Charlotte NC just a short while before I heard Chiss had died. I couldn't believe that he was dead. I am glad that I finally got a chance to see Savatage live while Chriss was still alive. I think he was more than one of the best guitarists ever because of the feeling he put into the music. It is sad that he is gone but his memory will live on in those who recognized his talent and his ability to move you with his music. Boone, NC USA - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 15:39:05 (EST) |
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Saludos hermanos del metal!!!!!!!! En realidad que fue una tremenda noticia para mi saber de la muerte de Oliva, siendo tan virtuoso y excelente guitarrista. Lo que mas me dolio despues de ese tragico suceso fue el espacio reducido que le dieron en las revistas y tanto espacio Kurt, fue bueno pero Oliva era todo un mounstro!!!!!!!!!!!! Los que sabemos apreciar su musica lo vamos a recordar por siempre, el como el metal nunca mueren, siempre estan en nuestras almas manteniendo vivo este sentimiento tan fuerte como es esta gran musica. Saludos tambien a los fanatico de MANOWAR........ Que el metal este con ustedes Alejandro Tegucigalpa, Honduras - Thursday, January 08, 1998 at 01:20:06 (EST) |
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there are but a few in this world that shows us where we should be in our life and which road we should follow - CRISS was such a person. whether it be thru his music or his life he was a truly inspirational person. and his message follows in his death. thanks to Criss for seeing me thru all my times of torment and pain. your music was always there....... altoona, pa USA - Wednesday, January 07, 1998 at 13:24:07 (EST) |
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This is the first time that I am sharing my thoughts with other people via internet I am not sure if my e-mail adress is right or wrong but I am a fan of savatage nearly for 10 years and I want to say that Chris oliva `s sound put a very amazing atmosphere to the band`s music and after his death this sound was lost.I`m not telling that the band is not as powerful as previous times but the new image of the band is still better than hundreds of other rock bands and I will be one of the hardest fans of savatage till I go besides chris. BURSA, 16 TURKEY - Wednesday, January 07, 1998 at 12:14:55 (EST) |
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The wise say that one does not die so long as the echoes of one's life still play out in the lives of others. You'll never die, Chris. Hail and Fare Well. Chicago, IL USA - Wednesday, January 07, 1998 at 04:24:33 (EST) |
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CRISS WE LOVE YOU !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YOU LIVE FOREVER IN OUR HEARTS! WE CAN HEAR YOUR SOLOS FROM UP THERE!!!!!!! IOANNINA, GREECE - Wednesday, January 07, 1998 at 03:37:33 (EST) |
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Do what thou wilt,shall be the whole of the Law Dear John Olivia ! ...and as the Light touched the Brothers way, they starts to know, that the Heart of One has to stay, and another one has to go. To Honor and not to pray,so it will be done than the Sound is back , the Souls are safe and the BATTLE will be won... M. " Nor let the fools mistake love; for there are love and love.There is the Dove and there is the serpent. Choose well !..." AL 1:57 Maybe we will never know us, but be sure,don`t laugh, if you got problems try the E- Mail. Remember Every men and every women is a Star. Love is the Law, love under will. Berlin, Germany - Tuesday, January 06, 1998 at 21:42:06 (EST) |
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NUNC BENEDICTIO ART EST MORTIS THELEMA Dear Chriss, You´ve gone to early back home to the Circle of Eternal life. But you did your Job very well.Thanks to you. Sorry I didn`t get you in this Life, but you touched me from this far so I can start to finish what you began. I saw your Brother on the Magellan Tour in Berlin and I understand your choise to be with him. He is still the same but changed his Mask. I saw his sorrow but I could`nt reach him.Its like you said The Freedom will be back if he here this Sound . But I am Scary, who will understand this??? I am not a Freak. I told you I just started to play you ask me to trust. Okay, I`m 31 but please forgive me if I can`t understand it. I`LL TRY, THAT I PROMISETO YOU!!!!!! Take care I did like you said. Love is the Law,love under will Berlin, germany - Tuesday, January 06, 1998 at 20:50:55 (EST) |
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Justice be made, He was one of the best!... lisboa, portugal - Tuesday, January 06, 1998 at 08:27:49 (EST) |
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I'll never forget You, Criss. Budapest, Hungary - Tuesday, January 06, 1998 at 07:09:50 (EST) |
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It's been a month now since i visited the memorial wall.. well here i am again, reading what the fans wrote and i can barely stop my tears from falling.. criss oliva, hope you're still there knowing how we feel.. if you can hear me man, i just wanna say thanx. you are unforgetable, i live with you everyday in my life listening to your art, listening to your heart, knowing that whatever happens your music willl be there for me.. savatage cover band in egypt...opacity austin, tx USA - Monday, January 05, 1998 at 21:08:25 (EST) |
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When I first heard SAVATAGE,my band was just getting started.W listened to "HALL OF THE MOUNTAIN KING"for months knowing this band(SAVATAGE) was going to be big.I started listening to Criss's riffs,and solos constantly(even more than YNGWIE's).Criss Oliva shaped the way I played guitar. Even though I could never hope to catch the same fire,and intensity in which Criss played,he taught me to never give up...Thank you Criss,your guitar might be silent now,but your music will forever be heard.. freehold, nj USA - Sunday, January 04, 1998 at 21:57:41 (EST) |
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I am embaressed to say I never even listened to Savatage until a few month's ago, I always heard from other people how good they were, and how good Criss was. But I never actually heard them. Well now I have a vast collection of Savatage cd's, And I can't believe what I have been missing! Criss was truly a great guitar player, and I can say that because I am a former guitar player, until a freakish accident at work, when I lost 3 of my fingertips in a punchpress. You can't believe how much Criss' music inspires me, And now I am playing again, not as good as before, but still pretty good! So I will alway's be a Criss Olivia fan, and one of Savatage's biggest fans! God bless Criss, and I will see Savatage, next time they come to Minneapolis! St.cloud, MN USA - Saturday, January 03, 1998 at 20:27:35 (EST) |
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CHRISS YOU ARE THE LIGHT INSIDE THE NIGHT WE STILL REMEMBER YOU WE `LL NEVER FORGET YOU YOU ARE IN OUR HEARTS WE HEAR YOUR HOPES YOU RULE MAN SAVATAGE RULE NICK-GREECE IOANNINA, GREECE - Saturday, January 03, 1998 at 18:34:15 (EST) |
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I am a huge Savatge fan and have been for a while now . But I never realized how great a musician Criss was until I picked up a guitar for the first time. His soloing I can honestly say moves me. To me, he'll always rank up there with the greats such as Rhandy Rhoades, George Lynch, and Steve Vai. Savatage's music has benn there through the good times, and has helped me through the bad. I just wish I could have seen Criss play before he left us. It really is a shame, and I just wish I could share Savatage's music with everyone. If I ever make it, I'll owe a lot of my playing style and technique to Criss. His music lives on in my heart, and though I've never even seen him perform live or even met him, his death really upset me. I'd just like to pay my respects to, in my opinion, one of the best ever. Natchitoches, La USA - Friday, January 02, 1998 at 17:10:05 (EST) |
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We mýss you C rýss. adana, turkey - Thursday, January 01, 1998 at 11:25:06 (EST) |