Jon Oliva, frontman of Savatage and co-founder of Trans-Siberian Orchestra, has revealed that he’s been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and Ménière’s disease, a disorder of the inner ear that severe vertigo and tinnitus.
As a result of a spinal injury and his aforementioned medical conditions, Oliva has been forced to drop from Savatage’s upcoming reunion performance at the Brazilian Monsters of Rock festival next year. According to the festival’s website, Zak Stevens — who fronted Savatage from 1992 through 2000 — will take over lead vocals in his stead.
Oliva took to social media to address fans and open up about his ongoing health issues, stating that he is working with doctors to “get healthy again.” Despite his expected absence, the singer said that he is still overseeing production of the upcoming Savatage show alongside his bandmates and will be working on new material in the studio in the meantime.
Oliva’s full statement read [via Facebook]:
“Hello Savatage fans, this is Jon Oliva. I want to set a few things straight for everyone. First of all, I am very excited for Johnny, Chris, Zak, Jeff & Al to play again. I feel it’s important for the fans to enjoy our music live, and believe me these guys will kick ass.
As far as I go, I was going to do these shows but unfortunately, I’ve run into more health issues. I want you all to know that if there was any way I could do these shows I would, but my health issues are more serious than I originally thought.
As most of you know I fractured my spine in 3 places and have recently been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis as well as Ménière’s disease. My doctors are working with me to get healthy again.
I am working closely with the guys and will be involved in every other aspect of the show. I am 100 percent behind the guys doing this and I promise I will return [as soon as possible]. In the meantime, I am working in the studio on new material.
I love you all and thank you for understanding my situation, I know my brothers will deliver the goods.
Enjoy Sava Legions.
Much love to you all. Jon Oliva”
Oliva will certainly be missed at the upcoming Savatage festival gig — what will be only the second live performance by the band since its hiatus in 2002 (the other being a 2015 show at Wacken Open Air). He is also not currently a touring member of his other notable project, Trans-Siberian Orchestra, with Zak Stevens also commanding that role in the progressive metal group’s touring lineup.
See Oliva’s statement, via the “Savatage Legion” Facebook group, below.