December 02, 2022

Abba's Janne Schaffer, Five Man Electrical Band, Kelly Lang

52 minutes

Let's head to Sweden to meet that country’s most famous songwriter and guitarist, best known for his work playing with the smash hit group, ABBA. In our interview from Stockholm, JANNE SCHAFFER talks of his experience building his own guitar in school when he was just 12 years old. He tells us stories of how his disapproving father came to a gig one night to haul him off the stage and how he had to continue practicing and playing in secret. He talks about how he formed a friendship with ABBA’s Benny Andersson and how it was, in part, his efforts that brought Agnetha and Anni-Frid into the group. Janne has a great story to tell that also includes hanging out and recording with artists like Bob Marley and Johnny Nash.

Do you remember Canadian band, THE FIVE MAN ELECTRICAL BAND? Perhaps not the name but definitely that 1971 anti-establishment song 'Signs' which made it to the top of the charts all over the world. The group featured guitarist/vocalist Les Emmerson who sadly passed away recently as a result of Covid 19. The band was originally known as The Staccatos and this week current members Steve Hollingworth and Mike Crepin tell us about not only that song, but about their other hits and their resurgence in popularity, partly due to their recent efforts to raise awareness about climate change.

We also catch up with Nashville singer-songwriter KELLY LANG whose dad was the road manager for country legend Conway Twitty. Kelly regales us with stories about performing with Sir Barry Gibb, Ronnie Milsap, Loretta Lynn and her dear friend, the late Olivia Newton John. Kelly's also married to county superstar T.G SHEPPARD and tells us what life is like working and living with him.

Is there someone you'd like to hear from? A musician from the 60s, 70s or 80s who you'd like me to interview? All you have to do is get in touch through my website www.abreathoffreshair.com.au or send me a message directly [email protected] and I'll be happy to follow up for you.

For more information about Janne Schaffer check his website https://www.janneschaffer.se/

To learn more about The Five Man Electrical Band head for https://www.fivemanelectricalband.ca/

And to check out all things Kelly Lang https://www.kellylang.net/singer

I hope you enjoy this week's show!

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