Jon Schaffer

Jon Schaffer, born on March 15, 1968, is a prominent American heavy metal musician known for his dynamic contributions to the genre. As the rhythm guitarist, bandleader, and principal songwriter of the influential band Iced Earth, Schaffer has been a driving force in heavy metal since he founded the group in 1985, originally under the name Purgatory.

In addition to his work with Iced Earth, Schaffer has explored various musical avenues. He serves as the lead singer for Sons of Liberty, a political side project that reflects his personal beliefs and artistic vision. Furthermore, he collaborated with Hansi Kürsch of Blind Guardian in the band Demons & Wizards until 2021, showcasing his versatility as a musician.

Schaffer's career has not been without controversy. In 2021, he pleaded guilty to charges related to his involvement in the January 6 United States Capitol attack, which led to a sentence of three years probation. However, he was pardoned in 2025, allowing him to continue his musical journey.