Engineer Michael B. Tretow – an “eternal part of the ABBA sound” – dies at 80

Michael B. Tretow, an audio engineer who worked extensively with ABBA – and was often called the group’s ‘fifth member’ – has died aged 80.

In light of the news, all four members of the Swedish pop powerhouse have issued emotional tributes praising Tretow’s role in crafting the ABBA sound over the course of their career.

In a collective post on the ABBA Facebook page, Björn Ulvaeus says Tretow’s “importance for ABBA cannot be overstated”, adding: “He was curious and always willing to try new paths. It could be anything from the latest tech to a sound he had heard somewhere.

“Without his thoroughness and talent, our songs would not be played as much as they are to this day.”

Benny Andersson adds: “You meant more to the four of us in ABBA than any other person. I hope and think that you felt that throughout the years when working (and laughing non-stop) in the studio.

“Our music lives on as it seems, and you are the one who made it sound timeless. You were a fantastic inspirer and bringer of happiness. And the finest sound engineer the world has ever seen.”

Meanwhile, Frida describes Tretow as an “eternal part of the ABBA sound”, while Agnetha Fältskog notes: “You were not in good shape at all, but your laughs and your sense of humour were still ever so present.

“So many wonderful memories are with us. Your encouraging words during the recordings meant a lot. We are sad now, such a unique and talented person has left us.

Michael B. Tretow worked on all but one of ABBA’s albums, 2021’s Voyage. He also worked on Chess, a musical with music from Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and created numerous jingles for Swedish radio television.

While Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus share production credits on ABBA’s albums, it’s widely thought that Tretow – always listed as an engineer – played a key role in creating the ‘ABBA sound‘.