Shiny-pated Canadian Paul Shaffer is David Letterman's musical director and foil on the Late Show.

Shaffer started his career as the musical director of the Toronto production of Godspell, with a cast that included future stars Martin Short and Gilda Radner. Shaffer later moved to New York to record the album for the film version of Godspell at the invitation of composer Stephen Schwartz, but it was Shaffer's friendship with a handful of Canadian comedians that led to a gig on Saturday Night Live. He spent much of the late '70s working on the Lorne Michaels-produced show, playing in the band and writing musical material. His big meal-ticket gig came in 1982, when he was tapped to serve as musical director for NBC's Late Night with David Letterman, for which he composed the theme song. Shaffer stuck with Letterman after his 1993 switch to CBS, and remains the funny man's musical director.

In addition to recording his own albums, Coast to Coast and The World's Most Dangerous Party, Shaffer co-wrote the Weather Girls' dance hit "It's Raining Men." He's also served as musical director and producer for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's induction ceremony since its inception. The diminutive music man is married to Cathy Vasapoli Shaffer. They have two children, Victoria and William. [Image via Getty]