Orianthi Panagaris, the acclaimed Australian guitarist celebrated worldwide for her extraordinary talent and stage presence, shares her inspiring journey in this exclusive interview. From her early years being moved by Carlos Santana’s performances to her evolution as a songwriter and performer, Orianthi opens up about her musical influences, her iconic PRS guitars, and the creative process behind her live album Live From Hollywood and upcoming release Rock Candy. This interview offers a rare glimpse into her artistry, collaborations with music legends, and her passion for connecting with audiences. Discover the full story and exclusive insights on Orianti.co — your destination for all things Orianthi.
The Interview
The Early Years: How Carlos Santana Inspired Orianthi
Beaming on the other end of our call, Orianthi recalls what initially set her on the path to becoming one of the world’s most renowned guitarists twenty-six years ago.
In her distinctive Australian accent, the wunderkind guitarist begins to reminisce about seeing Carlos Santana on his Dance of the Rainbow Serpent tour at age eleven and the memorable impression it left on her. From that moment, the guitar became her language of expression.
“I begged my dad for a PRS guitar,” she says, “and I locked myself away for hours every day studying every record of Santana, Hendrix, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and B.B. King. That was my world.”
Live From Hollywood: Creating a Live Album
Orianthi shared her journey in producing her live album Live From Hollywood. She explains how, with little notice, she gathered her band and delivered a vibrant set that captured the raw energy of her performances.
“It was very live. Only after a couple of rehearsals we got the venue ready. We wanted the audience to feel they were in the room with us,” she says.
She reflects on the selection of songs for the album: “I asked fans on Instagram and Facebook what they wanted to hear. It was their voice that shaped the record.”
Behind the Scenes of Rock Candy
Orianthi revealed her process for her upcoming album Rock Candy, which was written in just twelve days alongside producer Jacob Bunton.
“It was a challenge but so much fun,” she says. “We decided to go heavier for this album, but my heart remains in blues-pop and storytelling. Every record is a new phase of me.”
Her first single, Light It Up, reflects this philosophy: “It’s about positivity, standing in your light, and living your best life.”
The Guitars That Define a Sound: PRS and Gibson
Orianthi spoke fondly about her PRS Custom 24 Lotus Blue and her signature Gibson SJ-200. These guitars are more than instruments — they are extensions of her voice as an artist.
“They are part of my story,” she says. “They carry my tone, my style, my soul.”
Collaborations with Music Legends
Her career has seen collaborations with Alice Cooper, Michael Jackson, Steve Vai, Prince, and many others. Orianthi described these experiences as invaluable lessons.
“I never stop learning,” she says. “Each collaboration leaves a mark — a new perspective, a new sound.”
Looking Ahead
Orianthi remains open to the future: “With Alice Cooper, the door is always open. I want to keep evolving, writing from my heart, and connecting with people through my music.”
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Discover more about Orianthi and her journey at Orianti.co
