Janne Schaffer, born on September 24, 1945, in Stockholm, is one of Sweden's most prominent guitarists and composers. Over a career spanning more than 60 years, he has appeared on nearly 5,000 recordings and released over 30 solo albums, including collaborations with groups like Electric Banana Band. He is also known for his work as a session guitarist for international artists and groups such as ABBA, Bob Marley, and Toto.
Schaffer grew up in Blackeberg, Stockholm, and began his musical journey playing the piano before switching to guitar. He was involved in the progressive rock band Svenska Löd AB and has worked with artists like Ted Gärdestad, Cornelis Vreeswijk, and Björn J:son Lindh. His 1978 album Earmeal, recorded in Hollywood with the Porcaro brothers, is particularly well-regarded.
Schaffer remains active both on stage and in the studio, and his passion for music and teaching lives on through his involvement with the Guitar Academy and his own concerts.
Known For

Robert Brobergs höjdare i Globen
Self
1991

My Brother Ted
Self

ABBA: How They Won Eurovision
Self
2024

Då går jag ner i min källare – filmen om Pierre Isacsson
Self
2023

Ted Gardestad: For the Sake of Love
Self
2016
Electric Banana Band
Himself / Zebran
2015

Doobidoo
Self · (1 episode)
2005
With a View to Realism: The Making of Man on the Roof
Self
2004

Ted - till minne av en popartist
Self
1998

Listen to the Music
Self
1979

Allsång på Skansen
Self - Guest · (1 episode)
1979

The Lion and the Virgin
musiker i Leos våning
1975

Parade
Guitar Player (uncredited)
1974

Snövit och de sju små dvärgarna
Blyger, a.k.a. Smyger
1973
Ett, tu -73
Self
1972