Savatage: “We Have a 10-Year Plan” — Johnny Lee Middleton

Savatage bassist Johnny Lee Middleton joins Metal Mayhem ROC for a look back at the evolution of Gutter Ballet and the band's journey from 1990 to Savatage's return to the stage today. Johnny talks with Metal Walt about working with Paul O'Neill, Jon Oliva's evolution on piano, the newly released Madness Reigns from the Gutter live recording, the wild days of touring, memories of Criss Oliva, and what it feels like to bring these classic songs to audiences again decades later. The conversation also looks at Savatage's successful return to the stage, the overwhelming response from fans, new music, and what may lie ahead for the band. LINKS Metal Mayhem ROC https://www.metalmayhemroc.com Savatage https://www.savatage.com CHAPTERS 00:00 — Johnny Lee Middleton / Savatage Tease 00:49 — Gutter Ballet and the Evolution of Savatage 06:47 — The Lost 1990 Hollywood Live Recording 11:22 — Sex, Drugs & Rock and Roll in Hollywood 13:32 — Hearing the 1990 Concert Again 15:03 — Bringing Piano Into Savatage Live 17:42 — Remembering Criss Oliva 19:44 — Playing the Classic Savatage Songs Today 21:12 — Savatage’s Return to the Stage 22:58 — The Future of Savatage 24:58 — 114 Shows in Nine Months Thumbnail Photo Courtesy of Mark Kurtzner https://www.facebook.com/mark.kurtzner/about

Added 16 Oct 2026