In a recent interview with Dr. Music, Savatage guitarist Chris Caffery discussed Jon Oliva’s improving health and the band’s comeback.
Caffery highlighted the positive impact of the band’s reunion on Oliva’s well-being. He noted significant improvements in Oliva’s physical condition despite ongoing health challenges.
“He is had a lot of punches. He’s lost so many people that are close to him. So many people have passed away around Jon,” Caffery said. “But he’s the mountain king, man. He had a fall, and then he’s had some health stuff and he has his M.S. that he’s dealing with and some other things.”
Caffery described Oliva’s remarkable progress: “But I saw him go from being in a wheelchair, a motorized wheelchair, and being with walkers to watching him walking in and out of the studio when we were rehearsing for the South American tour. I just saw videos of him and pictures online from a ceremony that happened [last week] for Morrisound Studios in Florida. He looked even better than he did when I saw him a month ago.”
The guitarist explained the band’s impact on Oliva’s recovery: “So I think the Savatage thing playing [again] is an inspiration to him. I think it’s the best thing that could have happened to all of us in a lot of different ways. Jon wants to be there. I want him to be there. I was, like, ‘Dude, I’ve never done a Savatage show without you.’ He was, like, ‘Just go play the fucking music.'”
Caffery emphasized Oliva’s ongoing involvement with the band: “It’s so important to me that he’s around. He had a big part to do with what we were doing [with the Savatage comeback]. He recorded that piece for the video [that we are using in the live show during the performance of the song ‘Believe’].”
“I know Jon — he wants to be there,” Caffery concluded. “Seeing just how much people missed him and his music and the legacy of the band is inspiring him to get back out there. He wants to walk up on that stage and have people fricking say hi to him the way he deserves.”
The band’s comeback continues to progress. Oliva’s health shows promising signs of improvement.
The founding vocalist’s recovery journey has faced significant challenges. A report from Blabbermouth revealed that Oliva suffered a severe T7 vertebra fracture in three places in 2023. This injury required wheelchair use. He also battles multiple sclerosis and Ménière’s disease, limiting his ability to participate in active touring.
Savatage has made a successful return to performing despite Oliva’s absence. The band delivered a headline performance at the Monsters of Rock festival in São Paulo, Brazil, on April 19, 2025. Coverage from Blabbermouth noted their appearance alongside legendary acts like Scorpions, Judas Priest, Europe, Opeth, Queensrÿche, and Stratovarius.
The current lineup brings together established members and new additions. Johnny Lee Middleton handles bass duties. Chris Caffery and Al Pitrelli perform on guitars. Jeff Plate plays drums, while Zak Stevens delivers lead vocals. New touring keyboardists Paulo Cuevas and Shawn McNair complete the ensemble.
Reports from Metal Planet Music celebrated the South American tour as a “huge success.” The band now prepares for upcoming European dates. These performances mark their first headlining shows in over 20 years. The strong fan response demonstrates the lasting impact of their music.
