Meet Alice Cooper’s New Guitarist

The 26-year-old musician will perform with Cooper’s band, taking the place of guitarist Damon Johnson.

“It’s very difficult to find someone to match the talents of Damon Johnson, but not only did we find someone who is more than up to the challenge … she also looks WAY better,” Cooper said in a statement.

A press release about the announcement refers to Orianthi as an “eminent guitar prodigy.” She has the resume to back up that claim. Since learning to play the guitar at age 6 she’s opened for Steve Vai, performed with Carlos Santana and toured with Carrie Underwood.

Michael Jackson personally chose Orianthi to play guitar for his “This Is It” residency at The O2 in London. After Jackson died weeks before the residency was set to kick off, Orianthi performed at the King of Pop’s memorial service. She’s also made appearances with Prince and ZZ Top.

This won’t be the first time Orianthi has performed with Alice. Last year she helped Alice rock a performance of “School’s Out” on the 2010 season finale of “American Idol.”

“I’m super excited to go on tour with Alice,” Orianthi said in her statement. “It’s a huge honor to be able to get on stage and jam with an icon.”

The “No More Mr. Nice Guy” tour returns to the road Sept. 22 with a gig in Wellington, New Zealand at Westpac Trust Stadium. The tour wraps up Nov. 19 in Moscow at Crocus City. Along with dates throughout Europe, the trek also includes shows in Australia and Singapore.

Orianthi will make her debut with the band during a Sept. 9 performance on the “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.” Cooper’s touring band also features guitarist Steve Hunter, guitarist Tommy Henriksen, drummer Glen Sobel and bassist Chuck Garric.

Click here for Alice Cooper’s website.

Click here for Orianthi’s website.