Jan Akkerman

Trading Boundaries

Few guitarists have shaped progressive rock quite like Jan Akkerman. As the driving force behind Focus during their golden era (1969–1976), Akkerman helped define a sound that blended rock, jazz, and classical influences into something entirely unique. Albums such as Focus Plays Focus / In and Out of Focus (1970) and Focus II: Moving Waves (1971) propelled the band to international acclaim, with Moving Waves reaching #2 in the UK and going Gold in the US. From this came the explosive hit Hocus Pocus—a track that continues to resonate across generations, featured everywhere from Top Gear to films like Baby Driver. 

In 1973, Akkerman was voted “World’s Best Guitarist” by Melody Maker, ahead of legends including Eric Clapton and Jimmy Page, a testament to his extraordinary technique and musicality. Joining Jan are three exceptional musicians:
 Coen Molenaar – piano/keys (jazz, fusion, soul; Haarlem Conservatory)
 Marijn van den Berg – drums (longtime collaborator since 2002; international session and TV work)
 David de Marez Oyens – bass (Conservatorium van Amsterdam; global performer and educator)