Episode 38: Jon Schaffer (Iced Earth, Demons & Wizards, Sons of Liberty)

Jon Schaffer is the founding member, chief songwriter, and driving force behind Iced Earth, Demons & Wizards, and Sons of Liberty.  Jon was also the first person to plead guilty to the charges brought against him for his role in the breach of the Capitol Building on January 6, 2021 in the largest prosecution in the history of the United States.   After a wide-sweeping pardon in 2025, he returned his focus to music after years of being embroiled in legal troubles.  When given an opportunity to speak with Jon about both of these topics, I decided to hear what he had to say.   Fans of Jon’s music know that he is not one to shy away from controversy or mince words about what he believes.  Not everyone will agree with what he has to say, but as he states very clearly in the interview, that has never really bothered him very much anyway.  

Thought Crimes Vol. 1 & 2 by Sons of Liberty, a reworking of two prior releases from the band with a new mix and live drums, will receive a physical release on July 4th to coincide with the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.  Originally released as a gift to his fans, the album gives insight into Schaffer’s view of the state of the American system through historical references to the founding fathers and other sources. 

For the full transcript of Jon’s sentencing hearing mentioned in the interview, click the link here: ⁠https://drive.google.com/file/d/106jegQGJBE2ubmcphuvR9nxD__F8PZXp/view