ABBA Sound Engineer Michael B Tretow Dies Age 80

Michael B. Tretow, the legendary Swedish sound engineer often considered the 'fifth member' of ABBA, has died at the age of 80. He was instrumental in shaping ABBA's signature sound, working on all their albums except the 2021 reunion album 'Voyage,' and was praised for his creativity, warmth, and technical skill. The members of ABBA—Benny Andersson, Björn Ulvaeus, Anni-Frid Lyngstad, and Agnetha Fältskog—have all paid heartfelt tributes, emphasizing his irreplaceable role in their music, his inspiring personality, and the lasting impact of his work. Andersson called him the finest sound engineer the world has ever seen and credited him with making their music timeless, while Ulvaeus highlighted Tretow's warmth and generosity. Fältskog recalled spending time with him shortly before his death, noting his humor despite his illness. Tretow also co-owned ABBA's label, Polar Music, and is survived by his wife and son.