Why Did She quit Alice Cooper?!

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Herman Li reaction and analysis of Nita Strauss leaving the Alice Cooper band and joining Demi Lovato. Recorded live on / hermanli
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[@francoisbrochu4052]

I just hope she gets some of the spotlight, cause with pop artists, band members rarely get any. To inspire those Demi Lovato fans they have to see her play…. Not just be in the dark at the back of the stage.

[@regortex3364]

Considering she’s about 10 million times hotter and more talented, it’s Demi that should be worried about not getting the spotlight.

[@beat_avenger]

She’s probably there to legitimize Demi as a rocker, I bet she’s gonna be shredding DSC

[@kimark0]

My thoughts exactly! Ms. Strauss is a powerhouse and I think it would do Demi more good :)

[@gustoguitars2343]

So what you’re saying is Domo Arigato Demi Lovato

[@MrMordor74]

You get it! This is exectly my feeling! I dont see all that light going on his spot of the stage! Most of Rhianna fna's didnt even notice the presence of nuno on stage!

[@gelkins2]

Look at all the attention DragonForce received when the song was in the Rock Band Video Game. Alice is not Nita's band, she's a hired gun. My guess is her new hired gun role is waaaayyyy more lucrative. Like Herman said she is going to inspire tons of young women (Demi fans) to pick up and play guitar. Fresh gig, big money, new fans to pick up Ibanez Jiva's and then she'll still have time to do her shreddy solo stuff during Demi's breaks. The question is why wouldn't you do it? Good for her! Keep up the great content Herman!

[@mvvf]

Guitar Hero not Rock band!

[@markcatron8996]

Ironic you say that, I've been playing for many years, While I've heard other guitarist say often they were inspired by some "Rock God"...I have never heard another player say they were inspired by Pop players. Jennifer Batten for instance. Personally, I feel Nita made a terrible decision to leave Alice Cooper for any Pop Band. Those kids in the audience of Demi's shows are not going to care about her few mins of Solo's. Not the type of music they are into.

[@David1456]

@@markcatron8996 Well, I kinda guess maaaany people had Jennifer Batten's Flight of The Bumblebee video as influence to aspire into shredding like a maniac... So yeah, maybe not her alone, but she certainly had some role in influencing some generation of guitarists!

[@markcatron8996]

@@David1456 "Maaaany people"? I know many other musicians, To this day, I cannot think of one musician that claimed to have that video. You alone are NOT many people. Secondly, Jennifer Batten was and still is a Superb guitar player, Yet, she never got the recognition and does not stand out as someone you hear others saying they were inspired by..Exposure means much in the Music world.

[@kellykeegan2608]

@putalawea equisde interesting take, who makes your signature model?

[@ChickenSoupMusic]

She has done interviews on this. She said Alice really encouraged her on These other massive hired gigs that further her career. I’d be surprised if she doesn’t tour with Alice again too.

[@kt3505]

Alice Cooper has been a steeping stone for many artists and helped launch their careers.Alice Cooper(Vincent the man) is no regular human being , he actually gets it.

[@trentc7329]

Alice literally said he encourages his band members to take their shot at bigger things and move on. It was in the Netflix doc about side players that featured Nita. He probably nudged her to take it.

[@angusorvid8840]

Alice is awesome. He's helped so many musicians build their careers.

[@XOChristianaNicole]

Any good artist will encourage such. I am, currently, reading Johnny Cash’s autobiography - and he did the exact same, for Marty Stewart (if anyone is familiar with 80’s/90’s country).

[@Crazy_Neighbor]

@@trentc7329 "bigger things" 🤡🙊

[@KemalUygurlu]

The fact that Mr. Herman Li is in your arms even if you don't play the guitar shows us your love for the guitar, this is an exemplary and beautiful message to many people. I appreciate your love for the guitar.

[@AI-ke9pp]

Even when talking on stream, he keeps it at the ready just in case he wants to demonstrate.. cool guy!

[@OhZiveo]

"you listen to the radio and you hear Demi's songs" That's why I don't listen to the radio lmao

[@STAYMETAL1]

💯

[@ringo119]

LOL!

[@gonepickin990]

Amen.

[@AmritenduRana31082000]

You don't .Billions of others do.Doesnt change this fact.Whethet you or i like or not lol.

[@mikebrocker722]

Radio is fucking garbage.

[@larrydellinger6679]

She can do what she wants! She's earned it! I've seen Nita 3 times! With the Iron Maidens, Alice and solo tour! All 3 great shows! Demi should feature her!

[@ebenezerservices6363]

Wao Nita with Iron Maiden, is a must see show, I saw Iron Miden couple Years ago in TX.

[@eleonn]

@@ebenezerservices6363 Iron MaidenS not Iron Maiden

[@bradforward850]

I once tried to go country as a bass player. After 30 yrs of hard rock. I played ONE gig. I'd take the lesser pay.

[@lm7_gio]

Ofc she can do what she wants. And we as metalheads can also call her a sellout, which she is.

[@silentshred5483]

8 long Years of Touring with Alice Cooper, No easy Feat. It was time for some change. More power to Her🤘

[@AlexandreGarcia777]

All power to her. Lots of rock and metal guitar players ventured into pop. Many played with Michael Jackson, like Orianthi. It's about having a career, not gatekeeping a genre.

[@bvyup2112]

yah never heard Demi Lovato but at least they're playing real music even if its pretty boring

[@MountainLionessMusic]

💗

[@Tkh21209]

This is the best comparison

[@mikebrocker722]

@@bvyup2112 LOL

[@mikebrocker722]

@putalawea equisde Nita won't get far. She's too much of a poser anyways. Good guitar player, but too much of an attention seeker.

[@ddupy]

If memory serves me correctly, Jason Hook was playing for Alice Cooper and he decided to join 5FDP, with Alice's blessing. The rest is history as they say. He definitely advanced his career forward. Nita is doing the same thing, although not my taste in music but hey, it's her deal and good for her for doing what she feels is right for her career.

[@ericgisclon8122]

This was salaray and for money composed and get money also....Dollars bless America!!

[@lynnritchie70]

Kip Winger also played for AC before starting Winger it worked out well for him. Ill just miss seeing her slaying it!

[@ericgisclon8122]

@@lynnritchie70 Winger was a good band Demi Lovato is a good band?...

[@lynnritchie70]

@@ericgisclon8122 NAHHH not so much! I would love to see her start her own band, and maybe she can. After the tour she should have some seed money. It bothers me that talent like hers is second fiddle to a Disney kid😞Don't get me wrong I am sure Demi is fine at what she does but she was shortcutted through the mouse machine.

[@Plubob_McHabblefluffin]

People who like guitars listen to Five Finger Death Punch. They normally don't listen to pop. Nita will get less exposure than some might think.

[@dainbramage3558]

I wouldn't say it's "catchy" more like "instantly forgettable"

[@Olyrous]

Spot on! Sounds like a rehash of many other pop-punk songs. Boring af.

[@tommynikon2283]

Exactly- and since I don't listen to Pop Radio, she's not part of my music world at all. The only reason I know about Lovoto isn't her music- it's her fucked up personal life. Like everything else in that world, it's forgotten easily.

[@KatyaReminiec9399]

Ignorable

[@nbrowser]

So glad I got to see her with Alice Cooper here when they passed thru a while back...she's one HELL of a guitarist and show-woman, seriously awesome.

[@mikebrocker722]

Good guitar player. Way too much of a poser IMO. PS: "Shredders" are a dime a dozen in the rock world.

[@Rowsdow3r]

I was totally unfamiliar with Demi Lavato before this but I listened to the music video version of her song "substance" before listening to it in this vid and I can see why Demi would want a metal guitarist in her group. This live version starts out fuggin heavy. Going for a heavier sound get a heavier guitarist.

[@mikebrocker722]

LMFAO

[@cafesociety8525]

How many little girls might she inspire to learn the guitar playing for Alice Cooper?... surely this is a good thing.

[@Tatted-ne7tu]

I'm glad your opinion is a positive one. I think most musicians completely understand the move and will wish her best of luck on her journey. It seems non musicians will look at this a different way but it's not like Coop is drawing stadiums and she's probably a bit burned out on playing the same catalogue for so many years. Fresh breath, new crowd, some tv appearances and a big check vs playing repeated sausage fests of 60-70 year olds, playing the same songs over and over again. I'd say she caught a break for the better on this deal.

[@gbenselum]

Not a single shot to her in the solo parts. What a shame.

[@IMPULSOESTATICO]

'cause no one cares.

[@leeroygibbs2720]

Alice Cooper was a challenger for her, learning blues and power chords. Now pop music is another challenge. All while having her own thing going with her man and other friends. Throwing in other genres only strengthens and adds to your style. Nothing but respect for her journey 🤙🤘

[@Skulllywag]

I know Alice Cooper is a band for folks STARTING their careers....BUT, she had a spotlight with Alice Cooper, and much more recognition then she will ever have miming (or actually paying) guitar in the background for Demi. Poor career move. And I could say the same for Orianthi. If Nita was getting tired of Alice Cooper, she could have found a place in another actual ROCK band, where her talents could shine. Pretty hard to transition from shredding to bubble gum pop.

[@kellecetraro4807]

Nuno Bettencourt played for Rihanna for years... It was bad ass, Just sayin' 🤘🏻

[@harrisfrankou2368]

Orianthi kinda sucks though as a shredder

[@scottmartin5004]

You should mansplain that to her...

[@IAmGRX]

She's playing in a touring band. With a pop star. This is a brilliant career move. She'll likely make more for each gig than she ever made with Cooper. And the fact that the focus will be on Lavato that means she'll be able to go off and do her own thing without most people even realizing she's playing live with a pop star. It's like a guy working construction to make enough money to live on and then going off to play with his band and make records when off work. You can afford to do what you want when you have something else that pays well covering all your expenses. It's and awesome move. I'd almost want to do the gig and have no one know I'm doing it so people will focus on my own stuff and not have to worry if my stuff sells or not. I could afford to keep it true to my vision and not give an F.

[@gussmoon1111]

Money

[@gtrsean2429]

Nita has her solo stuff too that gained a #1 on the rock charts last year. Dead Inside featuring David Draiman. That's a huge deal. She is smart and is getting the $ she needs to allow her a 100% solo artist career with fall back $$$ to fund it. Respect! 🤘👍💪

[@mikebrocker722]

She won't go far. Trust me on that.

[@Bangingyourmom]

@@mikebrocker722 Nope. Average looking (unless you're a simp soy boy), slighty above Average shredding skills (certainly no EVH) and her solo album was kinda boring. Her BF is a better drummer than she is a shredder. She's got no soul to her playing, it's just "Look how fast I can play scales and arpeggios. Sometimes I sweep pick too!" She made the right move, grab that cash while she can...once she's nothing to look at, it's over. Unless her playing suddenly turns into Stevie Ray or Dimebag quality....lol.

[@joenuno1]

Nuno Bettencourt from Extreme did the same thing with Rhianna. He loved the Challenges and it was a fun time for him.

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

so what's the challenge in playing basic 3 chords pop music 🤷 That's like asking Neil Peart to join the Jonas brothers 🤦🏼‍♀️🤦🏼‍♀️your skills diminish over a short time frame!!

[@russellward4624]

@@phantoms-yy5jv because playing 3 chords to 10k people will inspire more people than playing 52 chords for 5 people.

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

@@russellward4624 oh really well last time AC came through they sold out a 2500 seat venue,popstar is coming thru soon playing a venue half that size and judging from the lackluster response from her first 2 new singles she'll be lucky if she sells half the tickets,plus she has almost been in rehab as much as Steven Tyler. Incidentally Rush sells way more than 5 tickets and have been playing for 40 years.

[@russellward4624]

@@phantoms-yy5jv this was a TV show right not a concert. The aristocrats play every chord, lucky to get 100 people. Beyonce plays zero, sells out 20k stadiums. The average person is tone deff. They dont care about musical complexity.

[@keefriff99]

@@phantoms-yy5jv No, they don't. Just because they're not showing off their chops onstage doesn't mean they're not maintaining them behind the scenes. I think you have a warped view of how professional musicians operate.

[@chugmarks]

at 35 years old Nita has a LOT more career left in her than Alice at 74 years....I think this is a solid move. And perhaps she is just more into this these days, we all change what we love over time.

[@markjames8664]

Having a well-paid gig also may set her up to do whatever she wants solo or working with other rock artists without worrying about the money end.

[@mikebrocker722]

Solid move? in a few years she will fade into nowhere LOL

[@mikebrocker722]

@putalawea equisde More money than Alice Cooper? OK Einstein. LOL

[@AmritenduRana31082000]

@@mikebrocker722 whether you accept to enjoy that's the truth.Demi Lovato earns and have sold much more albums and have earned dmuch more than Alice.Wuality doesn't matter.Both are shitty to me.

[@mikebrocker722]

@@AmritenduRana31082000 Wrong. I just did a search. Demi Lovato net worth = $40 million. Alice Cooper net worth = $50 million. Ummmm, you were saying? Alice Cooper is far from being "shitty" kid. Go back to your lame rap records, tool.

[@ChuckLeone]

Say what you want about Demi Lavato and pop music, this was smart move for Nita Strauss. Alice Cooper is getting up there in age and is very likely getting ready to retire. Working musicians need to keep working and planning like this is going to pay off for her even if she only tours with Demi for a few years and banks all that cash, then moves on, or just stays on with her. Really smart move imho

[@fe2rr]

she will get more exposure too. she is one of the best female guitarrist and nobody knows her.

[@bolillo5013]

100% agree

[@scottwhite2757]

Well said I Agree ..

[@MountainLionessMusic]

Very well said.

[@brianrockwell1805]

Yup, absolutely. She needs to look out for her career. It’s not like there’s any way to keep the gatekeepers of the internet happy about anything anyway, they’ll keep finding reasons to crap on everything no matter what it is. Actually, I think that IS what makes them happy…

[@ZLEntertainment]

I ain't gonna lie, Demi is one of the few pop stars that I actually like, so I think this will be quite awesome. Fun fact, in her early albums she was more pop rock and played guitar back then also. I also read somewhere that during her depressed years, when she did drugs and alcohol, she started listening to heavier music. I believe, if memory serves correct, she would listen to Dimmu Borgir.

[@MustardTits85]

AC is reuniting with original (or close to) members for a new, classic AC album. Looking forward to it.

[@MercilessGuitar151]

Only half the band is alive, not much of a reunion.

[@vernonsalibad7343]

Wow, this is one of you most mind blowing and fully inspiring vlogs I had seen from a great guitar player like you. Full of respect to the contents you have stated here, but you had also made respect to other genre’s of music and musicians to inspire and live most of our lives. I hope you can get Nita on your show.

[@enginatasay3681]

There is no consistency in Demi disney pop, Nita will probably be left out once Demi starts singing hiphop or whatever is trendy. Demi will most likely not forefront Nita as Alice Cooper did. Sad day for metal guitar and for what heavy metal music stands for.

[@Rowlph8888]

Alice Cooper isn't really heavy metal, I would say hard rock

[@larsheuker]

Unfortunately yea, shes gonna get way less attention. No spotlight. No solos. Mostly backing tracks added on top of it. Hope she wont fade into obscurity. I mean who knows the guitarist of any pop artist?

[@Tangent_Frank]

@@larsheuker isn't James Valentine a pop guitarist?

[@vladimirpoutine7522]

Yeah I thought this was an odd pair and can't really understand the benefit if this Demi is the crazy lady that's been in the news lately.

[@FuglyStick]

@@larsheuker lol, you act like AC is a "hot" act, setting the world on fire. I like AC, but he's in his 70s; playing for AC isn't the "spotlight."

[@kevinstansfield8249]

In the old days we'd call her a sell out .

[@bobathanrex4913]

Rihanna went out of the way to rearrange songs live to be way more guitar centric and Nuno got the spotlight quite a few times. I could be wrong, but I think they bonded over many things and also the fact they come from the same islands in Barbados. Hopefully Demi does something similar with Nita

[@arstocker]

Nuno is from Portugal

[@bobathanrex4913]

@@arstocker Glad I didn't say for sure lol. Coulda swore I heard that info in some Rig Rundown. Ah well, thanks for the clarification!

[@grtxyz4358]

@@bobathanrex4913 you got the other stuff correct though...

[@JunKungMusic]

Nuno was in Extreme and they were bigger than Rihanna and Demi put together in the early 90’s…. But I see your point…. More power to her to take that risk . But the pop world is a spineless world . PERIOD.

[@mikebrocker722]

Nuno Bettencourt was already a big name before that.

[@jfarnsworth75]

Nita has been a friend of mine for over 10 years. From The Iron Maidens, L.A. Rams, WWE, The Starbreakers, Alice Cooper, her solo debut album "Controlled Chaos" and now Demi Lovato I will always support her. One of my favorite memories was the trip we made back from Las Vegas from a TIM's show crammed in a van and stopping by Alien Jerkey in Baker, CA.

[@stevecoronado1103]

Jason Hook played for Taylor Swift before joining Alice Cooper. Yeah this is the opposite of what's going on here but it is still relevant. Nita's next step I think is going to be her own group.

[@trance9158]

She already had one started. They had gigs lined up and played a few already

[@LanceCorporalHawk30]

Hillary Duff, not Taylor Swift

[@BoyAditya]

It's Hilary duff. 'Hired gun' documentary right?

[@angusorvid8840]

I wish Nita all the success in the world. This gig will put her at a higher profile. She's paid a lot of dues.

[@alexdeleon7135]

I agree completely. She made a career changing decision and I applaud her for it. People need to be reminded that Nuno Bettencourt currently plays with Rihanna. Conversely, I heard that Lady GaGa was considering a metal album. She became a huge fan of Anthrax, and other heavy bands while working s a cage dancer, before establishing herself in the pop world. It is a concept in the opposite direction, but I believe she can do it. The only hurdle for her would the response from the metal fans. I was a touring tech for many 80s metal artists, and if were young again I would not hesitate to join her band as guitarist.

[@oldgoattheantichrist3468]

Lady GaGa said that shit when she was dating Doug Aldrich…that boat has long sailed.

[@the.communist]

How can u compare legendary cooper with demi?🤣😂🤣😂🤣😂

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

lady Gaga 😂what a joke! Damn poser pretending she likes hard rock music!!

[@TMGREVERENDX]

@@the.communist Demi probably pays much better and has absolutely sold more albums this side of the millennium.

[@MultiMidden]

She had The Darkness as a support act on one of her tours.

[@themplar]

Ever since i know Demi Levato is a Dimmu Borgir fan, i have a soft spot for her. Dont know much about her music, but this particular song was pretty cool to be honest. Mainly because it brings back rock and an actual band back to mainstream.

[@RokDAWG1]

She’s a hired gun & she deserves to get it while she’s able. I know a few A-list hired guns & that’s the music business. Good for her! I hope she’ll keep going further!

[@RobBCactive]

Oh aaarrggghhh, I am not paid enough to listen to this stuff!!

[@questioneverything4633]

Girl power and feminism and other stupid buzzwords like that! Nah, she probably got paid better and sold out.

[@syfman6]

Great move for her. She will grow and probably have a lot of fun doing so. Good for Nita! 💚🎸

[@MikeConde]

Shes leveling up. In the bigger picture her career will benefit from this move down the road. God speed and God bless her!

[@MikeConde]

@Hippie Farmer I get you...but I think a broader exposure to a current artist's fanbase is the point here and most likely bags of cash

[@MikeConde]

@putalawea equisde Watch it happen...💥lol

[@Opeckie]

Nita doesn't have to prove anything to anyone anymore, she's got bigger balls than most dudes who pick up a guitar! MASSIVE Kudos for her to taking the plunge and trying something new! Pop music needs more GOOD guitar again, so this is 100% a step in the right direction and win for everybody! This will also give us a chance for Alice to introduce us to another legendary guitarist in the future. He's introduced us to SO MANY greats over the years.

[@TarynnElizabeth619]

I’ve been heavy metal fan since I was a little kid.! The very first record I bought with my birthday money was when I was seven years old in 1976, it was KISS rock ‘n’ roll over! In school they always called me the “Metal Chick”.! With that said. Just listening to this one song, it has much more intricate guitar parts, which I’m guessing not only challenges Nita, but at the same time it’s obvious that this is a better gig as far as getting paid is concerned. Bigger crowds, and a fan base that doesn’t know her, yet! Now they will! It’s a win-win for her! Go Nita.! Girl power! Metal Chicks Rule!! 🎸💜🤘🏻💙

[@rockingguitarlessons]

SHE MADE A SMART BUSINESS MOVE. YOU CANT FAULT HER FOR THAT.

[@johng7566]

Nuno Bettencourt played with Rihanna. Didn't hurt him any. More power to her.

[@jonborrmann3124]

I understand she wants more exposure, and rightfully so, Nita is a beast,, but in my worthless opinion, Demi is a horrible route to take. Good luck Nita, you'll need it..

[@Afurthyclays]

Well said. Yikes! Just maybe, we’ll be surprised. I don’t know.

[@clarkbuckner4900]

Agree, all about $$$$$$$.

[@armara70]

@@clarkbuckner4900 Right, just like Steve Vai, Zack Wylde and others that have moved around

[@robertadlington650]

you wont get more exposure playing for one of these pop singers its all about them

[@trev3971]

@@robertadlington650 AFAIK, the last time Alice Cooper was on national broadcast TV was 2017. Demi Lovato has performed on national broadcast TV more than a dozen times since then. Alice is a legend, but even with less of a spotlight, being in Demi's band is way more exposure.

[@ben14326]

It's not disappointing she left Alice for a new gig, it's disappointing she left for a pop gig that isn't going give her room to shine and cancelled all of her solo tour to do it.

[@SoilentGr33n]

That's a ridiculous take. Yes the camera is on Lovato but Nita is all over the damn stage and doing vocals and whatnot. This is TV. In a live setting this show is going to slay. Nita is a performer through and through and it's not a fluke that she's there and since Lovato is a well known metalhead they will get along just fine. The song they played already has a hilariously heavy riff and they're having mad fun doing it.

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

@@SoilentGr33n she's a popstar,what is Britney Spears,the new wave of heavy metal ? 😂

[@SoilentGr33n]

​@@phantoms-yy5jv No, she isn't. So what's your point?

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

@@SoilentGr33n my point is she plays pop music and spends more time with nouns than music.

[@SoilentGr33n]

​@@phantoms-yy5jv Your point isn't very well thought out then, because 90% of 80's metal bands were pop stars who spent more time doing their hair than playing music (according to the same logic) yet the next generation brought us Morbid Angel and Pantera. In the end I don't give a shit what makes kids pick up guitars and start playing. I'll take a pseudo metal pop star over Britney Spears any day of the week, especially one who goes to Dimmu Borgir shows, listens to Job For a Cowboy and hired Alice Cooper's guitar player.

[@chriss2452]

You can't deny that Demi has got an amazing voice. This can be a match made in heaven.

[@notaperson5811]

Lol everybody’s respect for Nita has just been tossed down the drain

[@paladinminipedro707]

Classy Herman...you holding the Jiva is much respect for Nita!!

[@reclaimthestage]

That pop punk track Sam wrote in one sitting is a million times better than this.

[@ellismartin260]

I just tuned in to this, and wow, Herman has a normal kinda youtube gig, and there is no huge egos. Like, some of the one's I have seen, it was mostly about them, but thanks Herman, Nita is a legend in the making. Up the Irons!

[@ObviouslyKieran]

If they didn't show her solo in this video, they're never going to let her share the spotlight with Lovato. It's a lose-win for her and only divides fans when crossing over.

[@aprilkurtz1589]

It's a TV performance. They might have scheduled them for as little as three minutes. No time for a solo.

[@removemental2873]

I disagree. in a live set that's a few hours I bet they pull the spotlight on lead guitarist alone on stage shredding thing.

[@_dalich]

Herman you addressed everything there, with compassion, yes women may want families, I wish her all the best

[@bucketofnoises7810]

I think Nita‘s best times was side by side with Courtney Cox in Iron Maidens. The rest was for the money. It’s her life, whatever, I wish her best luck!

[@the.communist]

Playing for cooper isnt a small feature.

[@bucketofnoises7810]

@@the.communist never said that

[@AutismRocksOfficial]

You rock, Dude! 🔥🤘

[@fredalbrecht986]

This is just weird. Nita is Metal/Hard Rock in my mind. Not Pop.

[@keithrushmore9809]

I love your podcast Herman. Very in depth and love hearing you and other greats trade licks. Awesome!!!

[@mattwa33186]

From The Iron Maidens, to Alice Cooper, to respected solo act, to... Demi Lovato? If I watched that video in a different context (something that would never, ever happen, but anyway) I would not have known that Nita was in the band. Best musician in the building and she is completely anonymous, because Demi Lovato fans don't give a damn about that. It's a strange move for Nita, unless she's getting paid crazy money. And if she is that makes it a strange move for Demi, because why bother having Nita Strauss in your band if you aren't going to put her out front and let her do what she does?

[@brolsonmusic]

You forgot As Blood Runs Black!!

[@Plubob_McHabblefluffin]

Absolutely right

[@todddavis4274]

Whatever makes her content and happy. She has worked hard. I wish her the very best.

[@jsk8et]

Pop artists know how powerful rock guitar is. Nita is a great asset to an artist like Demi. After so many years with Alice, there’s nothing wrong with a change. This is about the live show and Nita will slay.

[@mikebrocker722]

You're not too bright.

[@Huepe12]

I think there is something going on with Nita's guitar skills and Demi's fantastic voice.. I'm totally been thrilled when I think a bout what songs are coming...

[@Raijin-RyuX24]

I found myself defending both Demi and Nita over this. Gatekeepers were really mad. I think this is great for both of them. Demi has always had a pop punk vibe in her music. She’s also a metal fan. This will also help Nita reach more people with her solo music. Demi has an incredible vocal. Wondering what that Demi Lovato/Dragonforce collab would sound like. (Hint, hint).

[@metalrockstarizer89]

See rock and metal is still alive. It’s just the stupid gatekeepers that keep it underground. And then they wonder “why is our music not popular”

[@kamikazekrush3758]

I just dont understand the "gatekeeper" thing, people just have different opinions and dont like Demi Lovato, this sounds like Blink 182 with high pitched vocals, I didn't see a single comment wishing Nita bad, and her playing with Demi will do zero for helping Rock & Metal music get more attention, it's simply for money, which is fine

[@Raijin-RyuX24]

@@kamikazekrush3758 The comments were from the actual articles on the metal zine sites. A whole lot of people saying Nita ruined her career by making this choice, how dare she leave Alice, etc. just as many people calling Demi all kinds of rude names because of her personal views. Even saying she doesn’t know how to play guitar. She does. She’s also a metal head. She also likes punk and hardcore. Turnstile is one of her favorite bands. This will help bridge the two communities in some ways. It will bring metal guitar to a new audience and hopefully inspire some to learn to play. It will bring some metal heads over to the poppy punk side of music perhaps opening their minds up to something different. Especially if those people are musicians. Limiting yourself to just one specific genre also limits your creativity. Many bands have learned this and it shows when they venture into new musical territory. While fans may not like the end product it’s more about the musicians ability to challenge themself and personal growth. That’s how I see this scenario. Besides, this allows Nita to hang back a little, take a break on stage and it’s fun. She’s still listed as guitar player for Alice Cooper on her IG. So maybe this endeavor is just temporary.

[@kamikazekrush3758]

@@Raijin-RyuX24 well I said I was disappointed, but only musically, I think Nita is cool and great, some people just like to troll with hateful comments, I personally dont think this will do much for branching music genres, I've never heard a single person who liked Rihanna even mention Nuno, only guitar fans mention he played with her, my whole thing was she is already 35, I was hoping with her own popularity she would try to start her own group with a great singer, but I understand the music industry isn't easy to make a living in, I wish Nita good luck, Demi Lovato is a good singer, but her music is definitely targeted towards teens and not musically very interesting, but I hope Nita has a good time and makes some good money

[@Raijin-RyuX24]

@putalawea equisde Nita a sellout? lol what a dumb thing to say.

[@ringbling420]

It's great to see you're being supportive of a fellow player in the pro arena. When you're in the pro guitar world and young you need to be out in front of as many people as possible and there's no doubt Demi will provide that alongside a fat paycheck - and let's be honest any real player would see the collection upgrades from that check as a big, big incentive.

[@LS-pe1rr]

demi lovato should analyze the lyrics of her own song and come to the conclusion "i need to get out of the entertainment industry".

[@calderscott2623]

This is a great move for Nita and Demi. I’ve always said the problem with pop music is the lack of guitar solos. Now I might actually listen to Demi Levato. Also be honest how many times does any guitarist want to play schools out and Frankenstein.

[@leastselfawarepotassium]

People are being haters on Demi. Not all her songs will be your cup of tea but she has genuine potential as a rock vocalist so we will see.

[@MaverickMustaine]

Herman is a professional at repeating the same thing with different sentences for 10 minutes long

[@Roxanneredpanda]

He does that with his solos too

[@mikedaguitarguy]

One hell of a hook in that chorus! I can't wait to see her kicking ass in the pop world.

[@mikebrocker722]

LMFAO

[@brucemurchiedean6348]

I don't get it Herman... how is this going to improve her skills in anyway other than a pay check? She is an absolute beast of a guitarist and this song didn't even have a solo. It was all simple riffs in a stereotypical pattern. That to me is a regression not progression

[@DCBMusic]

Nita's IG still states she's a guitarist for Alice Cooper's band (and Demi's), though wasn't it announced Kane Roberts is back with Cooper?

[@charly_tan]

Kane is on the tour. He is friends with Nita. He is still tight with Kip Winger, who was the bassist in the Alice Cooper Band during Kane's first run back in the 80s. It was Kip Winger who recommended Nita to Alice Cooper in the first place. I'd say it's pretty easy to connect the dots, but to spell it out, she's taken this new gig and given her friend another shot at making some money in the last few years before Alice retires.

[@DCBMusic]

@@charly_tan This sounds pretty reasonable

[@TS25539]

Saw her in Hellfest (on the same day u broke your guitar!!!!). She did really stole the show. I mean Alice and the rest of the band are all great but she was so stand out. Wish her all the best with the path she choose \m/

[@Misfitnz8]

She is now going to fade away and be forgotten about

[@MWIrecords]

That sounds a lot like Avril Lavigne to me. 90's alternative pop punk. No solo, back of the stage, kept in the shadows. Probably not the best position to be in for inspiring others. Just sayin'. Curious to see how this pans out, but I think she should have timed this out better with a new solo release & really went for it. Even going back for a short stint with her old band, the Iron Maidens might have made more sense. They just played the Wakken Open Air festival & seem to have plenty of tour dates. After all, if Iron Maiden can now have 3 guitars, why not the Maidens? Plus Nita's name would have added a bonus drawing power. Could have been cool, while she finished up the next solo album. Guess time will tell.

[@Sid00077]

More opportunity to build industry connection with Demi. Plus, it probably pays more. And musically Demi's songs are easier to play so Nita will probably get time to work on her solo stuff.

[@killereverb3928]

Herman - I appreciate the chestnuts of wisdom you share. Your words ring true - one has to push the envelope and let’s face it - playing with Demi Lovato will expose her to millions of NEW fans from around the world. That’s just smart as a guitar player for hire. That way she gets paid and stays paid. It’s like that. He heeeeee!!!!!!

[@rafaelbaffini]

It sounds like a great job opportunity for her. Alice Cooper is a legend, but young listeners may never even heard about him. Demi has 6x more listeners than Alice on Spotify, which means that Demi has a bigger fan base, more / big concerns etc. Therefore, we may expect that her band will have a better compensation and working conditions.

[@giancarlom.]

This is like downgrading from an iPhone 13, to an Oppo smartphone. 👍👍 Congrats to Nita Strauss anyhow 👍👍

[@thelowe6393]

I can certainly understand an artist moving on to take n new challenges but, I don't think this is a good move for Nita. Demi Lovato's music is incredibly lame, IMO and I don't see her becoming known for great guitar-centric songs. That would reduce her current audience significantly.

[@Sprenklefish]

It's not so much the lameness of her music (it's ok not horrible, but look at MGK who also fakes playing guitar as well) it's the fact that Demi kinda went off the deep end and started singing to ghosts. I don't see Demi getting back to the Top 10 as she was a few years ago. She pretty much killed her career and Nina has jumped on a sinking ship. Maybe Nina knows something we don't, but it looks to me like a quick cash grab and a step into that world of pop.

[@Plubob_McHabblefluffin]

@The Low E Totally agree

[@bepriceless]

I'm sure playing the same Alice songs from the 70's got old, but I'll bet doing this gig will get old a lot quicker.

[@guitardog7414]

Honestly playing Alice's catalog for a decade must've of been mind numbing. I'm just happy that she's still out there playing. I mean she's getting paid to play. I wish I did. She's can definitely out shred me.

[@the.communist]

U think playing demis stuff is not mind numbing?

[@louischemin1074]

@@the.communist it is for sure bro!

[@0pher545]

I love Alice Cooper but playing with him has probably been a bit of a glass ceiling. All of his big hits came out over 40 years ago and were played by someone that’s not her and the truth is no one except the diehard fans are listening to new Alice Cooper music in 2022 so the guitar parts she does write are basically falling on deaf ears. This is her chance to leave her mark on classic songs in the making and not be limited to playing dad rock from the 70s for the rest of her career.

[@Skulllywag]

@@0pher545 Demi writes "classic songs"? Funny....although I've heard the name, I've never heard any of Demi's music before, but then again, I'm not an 18 yr old girl.... and neither is Nita. If she wanted a change, I think she could found a spot in another band where her talents could shine. Nita is a shredder, not a strummer.

[@mikebrocker722]

Shredders are a dime a dozen. There's thousands of them. Applying yourself "to the song" means way more than "shredding".

[@flypr09]

thank you!! great take on this controversy.

[@chrisking6695]

Music is music. That’s how I see it. This is the rock music of today. I’m not connecting to it like I would if I was 20 years younger but I’m glad that younger generations play instruments.

[@ObviouslyKieran]

People will always want to play instruments regardless of age or gender.

[@mindcrome]

If this is a trend back to bands. I am for it, that means there will be something I like some where.

[@aaronbuell2090]

Good luck to Nita on the new gig. I’m super glad I saw her with Alice this past April, now that she’s left the band.

[@craigcalder7264]

Demi will be doing reggae next week and identifying as a toaster

[@biCARRIEous]

Real fans will support the choices she makes for herself like this no matter what. ❤️‍🔥

[@Yanthungbemo]

All I know is that any live performance of La La Land and Trainwreck is gonna be lit! 🤘 (If they ever do that live)

[@redlight1505]

Nita has said she didn't "quit" Alice Cooper. She's having a break and will see where it leads, if there are no schedule conflicts she'll perform again with them.

[@lexidecimal9941]

Oh, wow, wtf, heavy rock intro, then Disney groomed pop trash. Oh, and demi can't sing real good neither.

[@wingsoficarus1139]

Yeah at first I was like "wtf that sounded kinda heavy" and then she started singing.

[@byrdmain7511]

yall think she really singing?

[@lexidecimal9941]

@@byrdmain7511 actually yeah kinda, my daughter is 13, I've been a victim of Demi for about 10 years now in one way or another. Lol, she always seems like she's struggling and then it's still not good enough. She can sing better than me. But I don't think she's worthy of 10m followers. Way better nobodies on YT put her to shame.

[@etherealcaitiff]

Herman always has the best takes on this type of stuff. He is able to be critical and supportive at the same time.

[@paladinminipedro707]

Demi does have good singing talent....i wont never bash her voice. This is a surprise and a big move for her and Nita!! I like what i hear so far.

[@chrisgoblin4857]

I think this is a really shrewd move from Nita. Good on her. Take on that challenge and try something different which will no doubt be great exposure for her in the pop industry.

[@neonxrunner7820]

What a waste of talent... Nita is a spotlight material, im talking about her great guitar player skills. I saw her on Sao Paulo tour which Alice Cooper openned for Gun n' Roses. It was amazing to see Cooper and Nita. Demi sucks.

[@ericsherman4181]

Look what Nuno did when he was with Rihana’s touring band, he gave the live shows a gritty/funky Nuno style sound, plus he didn’t have to play his Extreme stuff and still rocked it.

[@paladinminipedro707]

Also...I think maybe Nita wanted to broaden her guitar talents with different styles...she is universally known as a shredder....but now she is learning something different. Also dont forget...Nita was the guitarist for Jermaine Jackson, so Pop music is nothing new to her.

[@brentlacireno8712]

Your so right Herman it's a kind of fusion power to her 🤘

[@BaldoFlores_godmetal]

I absolutely love Nita. And i really wish her the best. But my god, this seems like the wrong move in every sense. I hope she EXPANDS her fanbase, but metal fans are very very special, im not sure they will take this well

[@MileHighGrowler]

They're very special, but forcing people to get outside the box a little bit isn't always a bad thing. Metal fans can be intensely judgmental and even though I'm no Demi fan, I love that Nita made the ballsy move.

[@BaldoFlores_godmetal]

@@MileHighGrowler i wish her all the luck, but with Cooper she was a star!! People could come to see Nita Strauss, playing with Alice. Hopefully it was just Kimmel, but i didnt like that there was barely any spotlight on Nita. I really hope Demi gives her a chance to shine, if she does, its a move that can pay off. I just hope shes not just dwelling in the shadows. She's way too good for that

[@MileHighGrowler]

@@BaldoFlores_godmetal That's the case with so many groups that go on a show like that. I'd imagine it'll be different in live settings. But either way, I support her wanting to try something different, even if it makes people angry.

[@freedompanda9438]

Anyone else notice the Anita Strauss signature guitar Herman’s holding through the entire video? Such a sweet axe.

[@freedompanda9438]

Effing autocorrect!! “Anita??” iPhones SUCK 😂🤣😂🤣

[@Jmilillo]

I feel bad for her. She’s really gonna be misrepresented in Demi Lovato’s band

[@tydra74]

I just hope she will keep the same makeup. Nita is a great artist and I am sure she took a decision for herself. I wish her the best and many satisfactions.

[@SealofPerfection]

Can't fault her for this switch. Alice is 74 now. Even if he puts out the best music he's ever made, nobody is going to listen to it or buy it. Demi Lovato is a huge act right now, and current. Nita will have far more exposure than touring small venues with Alice and playing the same old 40 year old songs every night, and just being 1 of the 3 guitarists. She did the right thing for her.

[@BUNKERJR53]

I think your absolutely right. With Demi she's in front of a younger crowd and will inspire young ladies to pick up the guitar. I'm sure that Demi will give Nita a chance to show the crowd her chops. It will also be an opportunity for her to sell her Signature Model Ibanez or Ibanez guitars in general.

[@taunostark3198]

Jennifer Batten played pop music too, and she gained legendary status doing so! Good for Nita- if it’s a good move in her mind, there’s likely a reason we aren’t currently privy to. I’m still going to love her either way.

[@jarrettfinney4882]

I don't think this is the best decision for nita. I get it. Demis bigger, she's a woman, pretends to be an activist and all of that mumbo jumbo, but I mean the music is definitely worse, and the worst part for sure, idk that there's a single artist out there more unstable than Demi Lovato. She doesn't even know what she is half the time. Today her "pronouns" are this, tomorrow they're that. She must be a nightmare to deal with. Today you don't know whether she's a he or a that, and yet you somehow have to still manage to be professional. It just doesn't seem like a smart move to me. And don't get me wrong, I feel like nita could absolutely kill it for many bands, but that just even makes me think more, out of all of the bands you could've ended up in, hell, she could start a new badass project that I'm certain will be successful. People love nita. I do hope it all goes smoothly for her. Honestly I was bummed out when I saw that she went to her band because I was thinking "if there's one person who doesn't deserve a guitar player like nita, it's Demi. I really hope she doesn't end up brainwashing her with all of her nonsense.

[@phantoms-yy5jv]

Nita better get some kneepads for after the show🙄🙄

[@GuillaumeLortie]

HI Herman, its always great to hear your perspective as a professional, you understand the game and what its like to be a giging musicians. please be vocal about the industry, people need to understand the reality and the behind the scene.

[@edwardheins2930]

i think mgk influenced that shit lol