Jon Schaffer formed Purgatory (which eventually became ICED EARTH) in Tampa, Florida, in 1984. Since then, he has released 11 studio albums, the newest being the highly-acclaimed 'Plagues of Babylon' (available now via Century Media Records), two live albums, three compilations, three boxed sets, and several DVDs. Thanks to massive worldwide sales and rabidly loyal fans, ICED EARTH has earned a seat in the pantheon of America's most successful Heavy Metal bands.

One thing that sets Heavy Music artists apart is their extreme work ethic. Jon Schaffer is living proof of this, and unfortunately the 30+ years of bringing his music to the masses are taking a toll on his health. Jon, who recently admitted to us that he is a workaholic, recently announced that he had to cancel all of ICED EARTH's touring plans so that he can undergo another surgical procedure in order to repair his neck injury.

"It is with sincere apologies that I write to inform you all that ICED EARTH is forced to cancel this summer's festivals and headline shows," wrote Schaffer on Monday, June 2nd. "As many of you know, I underwent surgery on my neck in the year 2000, due to an onstage injury that occurred in 1996. Since that time, I have battled with this problem, and it has begun to accelerate in the past several months, causing additional issues that can no longer be ignored."

We recently chatted with Jon about his extreme work ethic and this lead into him telling us all about his neck injury. As you will see below, Jon wanted to complete the band's scheduled touring plans for the Summer but his neck gave in. Watch this exclusive interview now!

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