Who is Paul Shaffer and what are his primary professional roles?

Paul Allen Wood Shaffer is a Canadian musician, actor, and comedian. He is widely recognized for his long-standing role as David Letterman's musical director, bandleader, and sidekick on television, serving on both "Late Night with David Letterman" and "Late Show with David Letterman".

What honorific is associated with Paul Shaffer?

Paul Shaffer is associated with the honorific "CM", which stands for Member of the Order of Canada, Canada's highest civilian honor.

Where and when was Paul Shaffer born?

Paul Shaffer was born on November 28, 1949, in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

Where did Paul Shaffer grow up, and what was his family background?

Shaffer grew up in Fort William, Ontario (now part of Thunder Bay), Canada. He was raised in the Jewish faith, and his parents, Shirley and Bernard Shaffer, had interests in music; his father was a jazz aficionado, and his mother enjoyed show tunes.

What pivotal experience in his youth led Paul Shaffer to pursue a career in performance?

When Paul Shaffer was 12 years old, his parents took him on a trip to Las Vegas. Witnessing performances by artists like Nat King Cole during this trip was a "life changing" experience that inspired him to become a performer.

What was Paul Shaffer's early musical experience before his professional career?

As a child, Shaffer took piano lessons. In his teenage years, he played the organ in a band called the Fabulous Fugitives. Later, he performed with the "Flash Landing Band" and played jazz with guitarist Tisziji Muñoz in bands around the University of Toronto.

What academic background does Paul Shaffer have?

Paul Shaffer was educated at the University of Toronto, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1971.

In what early IMAX documentary did Paul Shaffer make an appearance?

Paul Shaffer made a brief appearance in the 1971 IMAX documentary "North of Superior," playing an organ at an outdoor wedding. The film was shot in northern Ontario.

When and how did Paul Shaffer begin his professional music career?

Shaffer began his professional music career in 1972 when Stephen Schwartz invited him to be the musical director for the Toronto production of the musical "Godspell."

Which notable performers were part of the Toronto production of "Godspell" that Paul Shaffer directed?

The Toronto production of "Godspell" directed by Paul Shaffer starred Victor Garber, Gilda Radner, Martin Short, Eugene Levy, Dave Thomas, and Andrea Martin.

How did Paul Shaffer contribute to "The Blues Brothers" project?

Shaffer served as the musical director for John Belushi and Dan Aykroyd whenever they performed or recorded as the Blues Brothers. He was intended to appear in their 1980 film but was dropped from the project by Belushi.

What was the premise of the short-lived CBS sitcom "A Year at the Top"?

"A Year at the Top" was a CBS sitcom in which Paul Shaffer co-starred with Greg Evigan. They played two musicians from Idaho who moved to Hollywood and were tempted by a promoter (played by Gabriel Dell), who was the devil's son, to sell their souls for a year of stardom. The series only lasted a few episodes.

What notable "first" did Paul Shaffer achieve on "Saturday Night Live"?

In the spring of 1980, Paul Shaffer became the first person to say the word "fuck" on "Saturday Night Live" during a sketch. The word surprisingly went uncensored in multiple airings of the episode.

Why did Paul Shaffer leave "Saturday Night Live" in 1980?

Shaffer left SNL at the end of the 1979-80 season along with Lorne Michaels, the cast, and writing staff. He later explained that while he was offered the role of musical director for the following season, he declined because he didn't want to start over with a new cast and felt five years was sufficient time on the show.

When did Paul Shaffer begin his collaboration with David Letterman, and what were his roles?

Paul Shaffer began working with David Letterman in 1982. He served as the musical director and bandleader for "Late Night with David Letterman" (1982-1993) and then for "Late Show with David Letterman" (1993-2015), leading "The World's Most Dangerous Band" and later the "CBS Orchestra." He also composed the theme song for "Late Night."

How many times did Paul Shaffer guest host "The Late Show with David Letterman"?

Paul Shaffer guest-hosted "The Late Show with David Letterman" four times. These instances were during Letterman's recovery from heart bypass surgery in February 2000, when Letterman had shingles in March 2003, and when Letterman attended an award ceremony for his racing team in January 2005.

What is Paul Shaffer's role in David Letterman's Netflix series?

Paul Shaffer writes and performs the bridging music for David Letterman's Netflix series, "My Next Guest Needs No Introduction with David Letterman," which premiered in 2018. He developed the show's sound, aiming for an "honesty" and "southern soul feeling" reminiscent of Muscle Shoals Sound Studio, ultimately stripping the score down to piano and organ.

What song did Paul Shaffer contribute to in 1982, and what instrument did he use?

In 1982, Paul Shaffer recorded the synthesizer solo for the song "Goodbye to You" by the band Scandal. He used his Oberheim OB-Xa synthesizer to emulate a 1960s organ sound for the track.

Which band did Paul Shaffer play keyboards for on their 1984 album?

Paul Shaffer played keyboards for the band The Honeydrippers on their 1984 album, "The Honeydrippers: Volume One." This album featured the hit single "Sea of Love."

What are the titles of Paul Shaffer's solo albums?

Paul Shaffer has released two solo albums: "Coast to Coast" in 1989 and "The World's Most Dangerous Party" in 1993. The latter was produced by Todd Rundgren.

Name a few notable artists Paul Shaffer has recorded with.

Paul Shaffer has recorded with a wide array of artists, including Donald Fagen, Ronnie Wood, Diana Ross, B.B. King, Cyndi Lauper, Yoko Ono, Brian Wilson, Warren Zevon, Miles Davis, and Geri Halliwell.

What hit song did Paul Shaffer co-write in 1982?

In 1982, Paul Shaffer co-wrote the song "It's Raining Men" with Paul Jabara. The song became a hit for The Weather Girls and was later a UK number-one cover for Geri Halliwell.

What role has Paul Shaffer played for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies?

Since the inception of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony in 1986, Paul Shaffer has served as its musical director and producer.

In what major sporting event did Paul Shaffer serve as musical director?

Paul Shaffer served as the musical director for the closing ceremony of the 1996 Summer Olympics in Atlanta.

What character did Paul Shaffer voice for Disney?

Paul Shaffer lent his voice to the character Hermes in Disney's animated feature and television series "Hercules."

What role did Paul Shaffer play in the film "This Is Spinal Tap"?

In Rob Reiner's film "This Is Spinal Tap," Paul Shaffer played a small role as Artie Fufkin, the representative of Polymer Records.

What was the premise of the VH1 game show "Cover Wars" hosted by Paul Shaffer?

In 2001, Paul Shaffer hosted the VH1 game show "Cover Wars," where cover bands competed. His sign-off line for the show was, "Just because you're in a cover band, it doesn't mean you're not a star."

What is the name of Paul Shaffer's radio vignette series?

Paul Shaffer hosts a series of 60-second radio vignettes called "Paul Shaffer's Day in Rock." These audio shorts first debuted in 2007.

In what episode of "How I Met Your Mother" did Paul Shaffer appear?

Paul Shaffer appeared in the "How I Met Your Mother" episode titled "P.S. I Love You." In the episode, the character Robin Scherbatsky is revealed to have been obsessed with him, and the "P.S." in the title refers to Paul Shaffer.

What is the title of Paul Shaffer's memoir?

Paul Shaffer's memoir is titled "We'll Be Here for the Rest of Our Lives: A Swingin' Show-biz Saga." It was co-authored by David Ritz and published on October 6, 2009.

When was Paul Shaffer inducted into the Order of Canada?

Paul Shaffer was inducted into the Order of Canada, Canada's highest honor, in 2007.

What street was renamed in Paul Shaffer's hometown?

In 2002, a street surrounding the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium in his hometown of Thunder Bay, Ontario, was renamed Paul Shaffer Drive.

Who has Paul Shaffer been married to, and since when?

Paul Shaffer has been married to Cathy Vasapoli, a former talent booker for "Good Morning America," since 1990.

What is the name of Paul Shaffer's daughter and her career path?

Paul Shaffer's daughter is Victoria Shaffer. She has worked as a production assistant and producer on various shows and was an executive at Oso Studios. More recently, she founded and operates Pup Culture Rescue, an animal shelter in Pasadena, California, and produces content related to animal rescue.

What are the titles and release years of Paul Shaffer's solo albums?

Paul Shaffer's solo albums are "Coast to Coast," released in 1989, and "The World's Most Dangerous Party," released in 1993.

When did Paul Shaffer and his band release a self-titled album and tour?

In 2017, Paul Shaffer reunited with his band, resuming its previous name, and they released the self-titled album "Paul Shaffer and the World's Most Dangerous Band." They subsequently went on tour.

What is Paul Shaffer's role with Epilepsy Canada?

Since 2002, Paul Shaffer has served as the national spokesperson for Epilepsy Canada.

What benefit did Paul Shaffer help organize in 2005?

In 2005, Paul Shaffer, along with Steven Van Zandt, organized a benefit concert for Mike Smith, formerly of The Dave Clark Five, who had suffered a paralyzing fall.

What charity is Paul Shaffer a member of?

Paul Shaffer is a member of the Canadian charity Artists Against Racism.

What was Paul Shaffer's contribution to Lakehead University?

In 2005, Paul Shaffer made a significant contribution to Lakehead University to dedicate the fifth-floor ATAC boardroom in honor of his father, Bernard Shaffer, who was an inaugural member of the board of governors.

What role did Paul Shaffer and his band play on "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" in 2023?

In 2023, Paul Shaffer and The World's Most Dangerous Band served as the house band for one episode of "The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon" while the regular band, The Roots, prepared for the 65th Annual Grammy Awards.

What was the significance of Paul Shaffer's appearance on "The Kelly Clarkson Show" in 2023?

In 2023, Paul Shaffer revisited Studio 6A, the former home of "Late Night," to perform a cover of Patti LaBelle's "New Attitude" with Kelly Clarkson for her talk show, "The Kelly Clarkson Show."

What role did Paul Shaffer play in the 2015 Netflix variety special "A Very Murray Christmas"?

Paul Shaffer served as the musical director for the 2015 Netflix variety special "A Very Murray Christmas," starring Bill Murray. Shaffer also appeared in the special and performed extensively.

In what capacity did Paul Shaffer contribute to the 2001 "Concert for New York City"?

Paul Shaffer served as the musical director for the 2001 "Concert for New York City." During the event, he accompanied Adam Sandler's "Opera Man" sketch and the Backstreet Boys' performance of "Quit Playing Games (with My Heart)."

What was Paul Shaffer's involvement with the Friars Club Roast of Chevy Chase?

In 2002, Paul Shaffer hosted the Friars Club Roast of Chevy Chase for Comedy Central. The insults during the roast were reportedly so harsh that Shaffer had to console Chase afterward.

What is the "Paul Shaffer Plus One" show?

"Paul Shaffer Plus One" is a monthly talk show hosted by Paul Shaffer on SiriusXM and AXS TV, which began in 2019. In the show, Shaffer interviews colleagues from the music industry, such as Sammy Hagar, Graham Nash, and Billy Gibbons.

What honor did the Ride of Fame bestow upon Paul Shaffer in 2015?

In May 2015, the Ride of Fame honored Paul Shaffer by dedicating a double-decker sightseeing bus in New York City to commemorate his long tenure as the leader of the CBS Orchestra for "The Late Show with David Letterman."

What was Paul Shaffer's role in the 1998 film "Blues Brothers 2000"?

Paul Shaffer appeared in the 1998 film "Blues Brothers 2000."

What musical genres are associated with Paul Shaffer?

The musical genres associated with Paul Shaffer include rock, pop rock, and jazz.

What instruments does Paul Shaffer play?

Paul Shaffer's primary instruments are vocals and keyboards.

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Foundations: Early Years and Influences

Toronto Roots

Born in Toronto, Ontario, in 1949, Paul Allen Wood Shaffer was raised in Fort William (now Thunder Bay), Ontario. He grew up in a Jewish household, influenced by his father's appreciation for jazz and his mother's love for show tunes. This early exposure to diverse musical genres laid the groundwork for his eclectic career.

Musical Awakening

A pivotal moment occurred during a childhood trip to Las Vegas, where witnessing performances by artists like Nat King Cole ignited Shaffer's ambition to become a performer. By his teenage years, he was already honing his skills on the organ in local bands, demonstrating an early passion for live music.

Academic Pursuits

Shaffer pursued higher education at the University of Toronto, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in sociology in 1971. During this period, he actively engaged with the local music scene, performing with jazz guitarist Tisziji Muñoz and exploring his interest in musicals, further broadening his artistic horizons.

The Ascent: From Stage to Screen

Broadway Beginnings

Shaffer's professional music career commenced in 1972 as the musical director for the Toronto production of the musical Godspell. This role provided him invaluable experience and led to further opportunities, including playing piano for the Broadway production of The Magic Show.

SNL Era

From 1975 to 1980, Shaffer was a fixture on NBC's Saturday Night Live, initially as a member of the house band. He also became a memorable on-screen presence, notably as the pianist for Bill Murray's "Nick the Lounge Singer" character and portraying Don Kirshner. His tenure on SNL established his versatility as both a musician and a comedic performer.

The Letterman Years

Shaffer's most defining role began in 1982 as the musical director and bandleader for David Letterman's late-night television shows. First with "The World's Most Dangerous Band" on NBC's Late Night with David Letterman, and subsequently leading the CBS Orchestra for Late Show with David Letterman until 2015. He composed the iconic theme song and frequently served as Letterman's trusted sidekick, even guest-hosting the show on multiple occasions.

Harmonies and Hits: Musical Contributions

Solo Ventures & Albums

Beyond his television work, Shaffer has released solo albums, including Coast to Coast (1989) and The World's Most Dangerous Party (1993). In 2017, he reunited with his band, releasing the self-titled album Paul Shaffer & The World's Most Dangerous Band, followed by a tour.

Collaborative Soundscapes

Shaffer's extensive collaborations showcase his musical breadth. He has recorded with a diverse array of artists, from rock legends like Ronnie Wood and Robert Plant (with The Honeydrippers) to jazz icons like Miles Davis. He also co-wrote the global hit "It's Raining Men" with Paul Jabara.

Iconic Performances

His role as musical director extends to significant cultural events. Shaffer has helmed the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremonies since their inception and served in the same capacity for the 1996 Summer Olympics closing ceremony in Atlanta. These high-profile engagements underscore his status as a premier musical director.

Screen Presence: Television and Film Roles

Silver Screen Cameos

Shaffer's distinctive persona has led to memorable appearances in films. He notably portrayed Artie Fufkin in Rob Reiner's mockumentary This Is Spinal Tap, appeared in Blues Brothers 2000, and had cameos in Scrooged and Look Who's Talking Too.

Voice and Variety

His talents extend to voice acting, lending his voice to Hermes in Disney's animated feature and television series Hercules. He has also participated in various television specials and series, including A Very Murray Christmas, Schitt's Creek, and competed as "Skeleton" on The Masked Singer.

Radio and Hosting

Shaffer hosts "Paul Shaffer Plus One," a monthly talk show on SiriusXM and AXS TV, featuring interviews with music industry colleagues. He also hosts the daily radio vignettes "Paul Shaffer's Day in Rock," providing insights into music history.

Accolades and Recognition

Canadian Honours

Shaffer's significant contributions have been widely recognized in his native Canada. He is a Member of the Order of Canada (CM), has a star on Canada's Walk of Fame, and a street in his hometown of Thunder Bay has been renamed Paul Shaffer Drive.

Industry Recognition

His impact transcends borders, earning him induction into the National Black Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame for his role in advancing opportunities for African-Americans in entertainment. He has also received multiple Emmy Award nominations and has been honored by the Grammy Awards.

Legacy

In recognition of his extensive career, particularly his long tenure with the Late Show with David Letterman, Shaffer was honored with a dedicated sightseeing bus in New York City as part of the Ride of Fame initiative. He has also received honorary doctorates from institutions like Lakehead University.

Personal Reflections

Family Life

Paul Shaffer has been married to Cathy Vasapoli, a former talent booker, since 1990. They have one daughter, Victoria, who has pursued a career in production and now operates an animal rescue organization in Pasadena, California, demonstrating a commitment to animal welfare.

Community Engagement

Shaffer actively participates in charitable endeavors. He has served as the national spokesperson for Epilepsy Canada and is a member of Artists Against Racism, reflecting his dedication to social causes and community support.

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References

The Honeydrippers, Vol. 1 at AllMusic

Under The Radar Films channel, Jan 2, 2017 - âSmall Talk About Sly documentaryâ by Greg Zola (part 37) Paul Shaffer - Sly stone epic story

https://books.google.ca/books/about/Pup_Culture.html

https://www.victorialilyshaffer.com/

A full list of references for this article are available at the Paul Shaffer Wikipedia page

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This page has been generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is derived from publicly available data, primarily Wikipedia, and may not encompass all nuances or the most current developments regarding the subject matter.

This is not professional advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for expert consultation in music, entertainment, or any related field. Readers are encouraged to consult official sources and qualified professionals for specific inquiries.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Paul Shaffer: A Symphony of Sound and Wit

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Foundations: Early Years and Influences 🇨🇦

🏙️ Toronto Roots

🌟 Musical Awakening

🎓 Academic Pursuits

The Ascent: From Stage to Screen 🎬

🎭 Broadway Beginnings

📺 SNL Era

🎤 The Letterman Years

Harmonies and Hits: Musical Contributions 🎶

🎹 Solo Ventures & Albums

🤝 Collaborative Soundscapes

🏆 Iconic Performances

Screen Presence: Television and Film Roles ⭐

🎬 Silver Screen Cameos

🎙️ Voice and Variety

📻 Radio and Hosting

Accolades and Recognition 🏆

🎖️ Canadian Honours

🏅 Industry Recognition

🚌 Legacy

Personal Reflections ❤️

👨‍👩‍👧 Family Life

🤝 Community Engagement

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Foundations: Early Years and Influences

Toronto Roots

Musical Awakening

Academic Pursuits

The Ascent: From Stage to Screen

Broadway Beginnings

SNL Era

The Letterman Years

Harmonies and Hits: Musical Contributions

Solo Ventures & Albums

Collaborative Soundscapes

Iconic Performances

Screen Presence: Television and Film Roles

Silver Screen Cameos

Voice and Variety

Radio and Hosting

Accolades and Recognition

Canadian Honours

Industry Recognition

Legacy

Personal Reflections

Family Life

Community Engagement

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice