"Lucky Orianthi Returns: Steps in for Nita Strauss in Alice Cooper’s Band Tour"

# Nita Strauss Exits and Rejoins Alice Cooper’s Band

Back in 2022, Nita Strauss, a virtuoso electric guitarist known for her Ibanez-wielding performances, left Alice Cooper’s band after an eight-year tenure with the shock-rock titan. Her future with Cooper was uncertain, but just days after her departure, it was announced she would be joining pop star Demi Lovato’s live band. However, Strauss surprised fans by joining Cooper onstage for a one-off encore just three months later and subsequently re-joining his band full-time the following year.

This recent announcement of Strauss taking another leave of absence from Cooper’s band came as a surprise to many. Orianthi, who previously toured with Cooper from 2011 through 2014, will be stepping in to take her place for a series of shows from late January through mid-February 2025.

# Cooper’s Comments on the Change
In a statement reflecting on the rotating cast of guitarists in his band, Cooper was appreciative of Nita and Chuck Garric and Tommy Henriksen and the work they have done with him and expressed gratitude for all the wonderful musicians he has had the opportunity to work with. He reached out to Orianthi, expressing his fortune in having such great musicians to work with and looking forward to the shows with her.

# Orianthi’s Busy Schedule
During her time apart from Cooper’s band, Orianthi has had a lot on her plate, releasing two studio albums and also working on her signature gear. She has been particularly busy with endorsements, including creating a signature SJ-200 acoustic guitar with Gibson and maintaining her relationship with PRS, as well as two signature amps with Orange within the last three months.

If you’re interested in catching Orianthi or Alice Cooper live, visit Cooper’s website for a full list of tour dates. Read more from the original post [here](https://www.guitarworld.com/artists/orianthi-re-joins-alice-cooper-band-as-fill-in-for-nita-strauss).