I listen to everything. My I-Pod's really diverse-from guitar instrumentals to Rascal Flatts to Usher.
OrianthiI got to work with [Carlos] Santana, who's been my idol forever. When I was 18, I got up with him in Australia and jammed with him. That was an amazing moment because I got up in front of my hometown crowd.
OrianthiWhen I auditioned to be part of the "This Is It" Tour, I didn't think I was going to get in. I didn't think it was for real at first, when I got the message on MySpace from the musical director to come in and audition for him. I came in and I played for the musical director, and that night Michael Jackson came in and sat down on the couch and I played "Beat It" for him. I just practiced as much as I could to make sure it was perfect.
OrianthiSometimes I write from personal experience, but so much depends on what mood I'm in. If I'm in a good mood, I'll write happier songs.
Orianthi