Derek Sherinian (born August 25, 1966) is an American rock and fusion keyboardist based in Los Angeles, California. After studying at the Berklee College of Music, Sherinian became a keyboardist and sideman for a number of artists, including Alice Cooper, Billy Idol, Yngwie Malmsteen, Kiss, Alice In Chains, and Zakk Wylde. He has also played keyboards for Dream Theater and is the co-founder of the band Planet X. His solo albums feature several prominent artists, including Slash, Allan Holdsworth, Steve Lukather, John Sykes, and Al Di Meola. Sherinian has been called the "King of the Keys" by Guitar World Magazine and the "Caligula of keyboards" by Alice Cooper due to his performing style. His influences include Elton John, Keith Emerson, Jan Hammer, and a variety of guitarists. Sherinian endorses various equipment, including Korg and Clavia keyboards. He is of Greek-Armenian descent and has a special interest in Armenian history.