Bio: Mike d’Abo

Love Me Do tells the story of Mike d’Abo, who replaced Paul Jones as lead singer of the 1960s pop group Manfred Mann, and was also an accomplished songwriter.

Michael David d’Abo was born on March 1, 1944, in Betchworth, Surrey, England. He is best known as the lead vocalist of Manfred Mann from 1966 to 1969 and as the composer of hit songs like Handbags and Gladrags and Build Me Up Buttercup.

Early Life and Education

Mike d’Abo was born to Dorothy Primrose (née Harbord) and Edward Nassau Nicolai d’Abo, a London stockbroker. His d’Abo heritage traces back to the Netherlands and the Dutch East Indies, while his maternal line includes Edward Harbord, 3rd Baron Suffield.

He was educated at Wellesley House Prep School in Kent, Harrow School, and Selwyn College, Cambridge. Initially, he intended to study theology and become a priest, but he switched to economics before leaving Cambridge without completing his studies.

Mike d’Abo’s Early Musical Career

Mike’s musical career began while he was still at Harrow School with a group called A Band of Angels, which had minor success. Although the band did not achieve significant commercial success, it provided Mike with valuable experience and exposure.

Manfred Mann

In July 1966, Mike joined Manfred Mann as the replacement for lead singer Paul Jones. His tenure with the band was marked by several hits, including Semi-Detached Suburban Mr. James, Ha! Ha! Said the Clown, and the chart-topping Mighty Quinn. Mike’s distinctive voice and stage presence helped the band maintain its popularity during this period after the departure of the popular Paul Jones.

Mike d’Abo Songwriting Successes

Mike d’Abo is also known for his songwriting, with notable compositions like Handbags and Gladrags, which became a hit for Chris Farlowe and was later covered by Rod Stewart. Another of his compositions, Build Me Up Buttercup, was a Number One hit for The Foundations.

Post-Manfred Mann Career

After Manfred Mann disbanded in 1969, Mike pursued a solo career, releasing several albums and singles. He also ventured into acting, making his debut in the West End and appearing in films such as There’s a Girl in My Soup. Additionally, he composed TV jingles, including the well-known Cadbury’s Finger of Fudge ad.

Mike d’Abo has continued to perform and record music over the years. He formed Mike d’Abo & His Mighty Quintet, a band that has been popular in the UK dance music scene. He also hosts a radio show, Late Night West, which is well-loved by listeners in the West Country.

Mike d’Abo’s creative career has been diverse and successful, spanning music, writing, acting and broadcasting. His contributions to music, both as a performer and songwriter, have left a lasting legacy.