Introduction
ABBA Says Farewell to Legendary Sound Engineer Michael B. Tretow: “The Fifth Member of the Group”
The music world has lost a quiet legend—Michael B. Tretow, ABBA’s iconic sound engineer, has passed away at the age of 80. His passing leaves a profound void, not only in the hearts of fans but especially among the four members of ABBA—Frida, Benny, Björn, and Agnetha.
Michael was not just the man behind the mixing desk—he was the soul of ABBA’s sound. From the very beginning—even before the group officially became ABBA—Michael was there, shaping the music with unmatched sensitivity and passion. His creative genius and refined ear helped craft one of the most distinctive and enduring sound signatures in pop history.
Touching tributes from ABBA:
- Frida wrote: “You were our comfort and safety in our little studio bubble, with your endless creativity, warmth and positivity. To us, you are forever part of the ABBA sound. As a wonderful human being, you will never be forgotten.”
- Benny shared: “Micke, my dear friend. You meant more to the four of us in ABBA than anyone else. I hope you felt that during all those years of working—and laughing non-stop—in the studio. Our music lives on, and you made it timeless. You were a fantastic source of joy and inspiration. I miss you. And yes, I kept all your coconuts!”
- Björn reflected: “His contribution to ABBA cannot be overstated. He was curious, always open to new ideas, whether it was new tech or a sound he picked up somewhere. Without his meticulousness and talent, our songs wouldn’t have the same lasting impact. He was a warm, generous, and close friend. Thank you, Micke, for all the laughter and for making each day in the studio a joy!”
- Agnetha said: “Dear Micke, I am grateful I got to see you a few weeks ago. Though you were not well, your laughter and humor were still very much alive. You gave us so many beautiful memories. Your encouraging words in the studio meant the world to me. We are heartbroken to lose such a unique and talented soul. Rest in peace, Micke. You will live in our hearts forever.”
ABBA’s manager and longtime spokesperson Görel Hanser was too heartbroken to comment, underscoring just how deeply Michael’s passing has affected those closest to him.
An Irreplaceable Force in ABBA’s History
Michael B. Tretow shaped the ABBA sound. From Björn and Benny’s complex compositions to the perfect vocal harmonies of Agnetha and Frida, it was Michael who brought it all together—mixing, adjusting, fine-tuning every note to create that unmistakable ABBA magic. He was affectionately called “the fifth member of ABBA,” a title that speaks volumes about his role in their success.
Beyond his work on the main records, Michael preserved countless hours of studio recordings, capturing the group’s creative process in real time. He was instrumental in the release of rare tracks, led the production of ABBA’s Spanish album in 1980, and gave fans ABBA’s first live album in 1986—often seen as the remix album the group never officially released.
A Legacy Beyond ABBA
Michael continued to collaborate with individual members on their solo projects throughout the 1980s. His solo album Let’s Boogie (1976), featuring all four ABBA members, remains a cult classic. Despite suffering a serious stroke in the early 2000s that prevented him from participating in ABBA’s 2021 reunion album Voyage, Michael was always present—whether at Benny & Björn’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2016 or the 10th anniversary of ABBA The Museum in 2023.
He also played a vital role in several ABBA documentaries and TV specials, often providing technical insight by isolating tracks and demonstrating the intricacies of the group’s recording process.
An Enduring Treasure
Michael B. Tretow was not only a gifted engineer but also a deeply loved companion and creative partner. As Benny so rightly said, “You meant more to us than anyone else.”
Farewell to Michael B. Tretow—the man who gave ABBA their sound, and the world a timeless musical legacy.