If you had the chance to see Alice Cooper live in the last couple years the talented and beautiful blonde guitarist girl, Nita Strauss probably caught your attention. We asked her about being in Alice’s band, what does it take to be a successful musician and many more!

Rockbook: When and why have you decided to become a guitarist? Did you go to a teacher to learn to play?

Nita Strauss: I started playing the guitar at 13 after seeing the movie Crossroads, with Steve Vai. Totally self taught!

Rockbook: Do you remember what was the first song you've learned to play?

Nita: Trust, by Megadeth.

Rockbook: Who were/are your idols or role models?

Nita: Steve Vai, Joe Satriani, Jason Becker, Marty Friedman... too many more to list!

Rockbook: Your Wikipedia page says that the great Austrian composer, Johann Strauss was one of your ancestors. Were there any other musicians in the family?

Nita: Yes, lots! My dad and lots of uncles, although I think I may be the first female professional musician.

Rockbook: Do you remember the moment when you became a member of Alice's band? How did it happen? Was there a moment when it really 'sank in'?

Nita: I think it was during the first show that it really sank in. Looking over to my right and seeing Alice Cooper himself standing 5 feet from me on the stage and hearing his voice in my in ears for the first time was a truly magical moment.

Rockbook: You guys play all around the world. Do you have any favorite places? Do you even have the time to check out the cities you play in?

Nita: As much as I love to travel and see new places, my hometown of Los Angeles will always be my favorite city. It's amazing to see new places, eat new foods and see new people though. I make as much time to see the cities we travel to as I can, although sometimes it's difficult with our travel schedule.

Rockbook: What instrument(s) and equipment are you using now?

Nita: I’m using Ibanez guitars, Marshall amps, D'Addario strings, DiMarzio pickups and Grover Allman guitar picks.

Rockbook: You've been featured on Revolver Magazine's Hottest Chicks in Hard Rock list multiple times. How does it feel to you to be recognized not only for your talent but for your beauty as well? Do you spend a lot of time on deciding what kind of make-up to put on, which dresses to wear, etc.?

Nita: Hahahaha!!!! I don't think I've worn a dress in 3 years. I hardly spend any time on clothes and makeup- more time in the gym and practicing guitar. My stage clothes are simple and black. It's really not all that complicated.

As far as being recognized for my appearance as well as my playing, I do find it flattering. I think to be a successful musician in this industry today you have to work hard to make yourself the total package- most importantly be a great player but also have a cool look, strong stage presence, work ethic... the list goes on and on.

Rockbook: What's up with Femme Fatale and The Iron Maidens? Are these bands still active or have any plans for the future?

Nita: Absolutely, both bands were active long before I played with them and they're still active now!

Rockbook: Your website says your working on solo materials as well. When can we hear the results?

Nita: My first solo song Pandemonium was released in January of this year and is available on iTunes, Amazon and Spotify. There's also a music video online:

Rockbook: What do you do in your free time (if you have any)?

Nita: I don't have any! Seems like a funny answer but I really don't have any.

Rockbook: Earlier in August you have played in Hungary at FEZEN Festival in Szekesfehervar. Do you have any message for the Hungarian fans?

Nita: Hungarian fans are amazing! I spent a little time there in 2016 for some guitar clinics and coming back for FEZEN Festival was a blast. Hoping to come back there again sooner than later!

Photo: Zenefesto (the photos were taken at FEZEN Festival)