Jan Akkerman (Amsterdam, 24 December 1946) is a Dutch guitarist and lutenist who rose to international fame as co-founder of the progressive rock band Focus, alongside Thijs van Leer. In 1973, readers of the British magazine Melody Maker voted him Best Guitarist in the World. Beyond Focus and Brainbox, he has sustained a solo career spanning more than five decades, releasing over 25 albums that blend rock, jazz, blues and classical music in a style entirely his own. He received the Dutch Golden Harp lifetime achievement award in 2005 and was appointed a Knight of the Order of Orange-Nassau in 2012.
On 12 December 2025, the live album My Focus - Live Under The Rainbow was released, recorded during Akkermans UK tour in February 2025 with Bush Hall in London as one of the recording locations.
Akkerman received the Bennies Fifties Lifetime Achievement Award 2024 on 16 February 2025, together with The Cats, during a presentation at the Volendams Museum.
In February 2025, Akkerman performed a series of concerts in the United Kingdom, including in Sunderland (The Fire Station), Bury (The Met) and Glasgow.
As of 2025, Akkerman actively tours through the Netherlands and abroad under the banner of My Focus and My Brainbox, and remains a sought-after stage artist.
Jan Akkerman, one of the Netherlands' most respected guitarists, performs with his live band My Focus. An evening of rock, jazz and blues from a legend named the world's best guitarist by Melody Maker in 1973.
Guitar virtuoso Jan Akkerman celebrates his 80th birthday with special performances spanning his legendary career.
Jan Akkerman celebrates with his anniversary show 'My Brainbox, My Focus' at Cultura Ede, blending music and storytelling.
Jan Akkerman celebrates his 80th birthday with a jubilee show featuring highlights from six decades of music, backed by his band, vocalist Phil Bee and daughter Laurie.
Jan Akkerman marks his 80th birthday with an intimate theatre show featuring his band, singer Phil Bee, and songs from his recent albums.