Mikael Rickfors was born in Stockholm, Sweden, 4 December 1948. From 1968, he was the lead singer and bass guitarist in popular Swedish band Bamboo. The band released two singles before breaking up in 1970. Rickfors would later perform with the British rock group The Hollies for about two years. His performing style during this period was with a wide range and powerful chest voice. In later decades, he took on a deliberate, slightly raspy tone.