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Ola BrunkertOne of the main session drummers who worked with the group "ABBA"
Date of Birth: 15.09.1946
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Ola Brunkert: The Drummer Behind ABBA's Success
- Collaboration with ABBA
- Post-ABBA Years
- Tragic Death
- Legacy
Ola Brunkert: The Drummer Behind ABBA's Success
Early Life and CareerOla Brunkert was born on September 15, 1946, in Örebro, Sweden. He honed his skills as a drummer with bands such as Slim's Blues Gang and Science Poption. In the 1970s, he formed his own jazz-rock ensemble, Opus III, alongside guitarist Janne Schaffer.
Collaboration with ABBA
Brunkert's musical prowess caught the attention of ABBA, and he became one of their most sought-after session drummers. He played on their debut single, "People Need Love," and their Eurovision-winning hit, "Waterloo." Brunkert's contributions extended to numerous ABBA recordings throughout the 1970s. He toured with the band in Europe, Australia, North America, and Japan.
Post-ABBA Years
Brunkert's last collaboration with ABBA was on the 1981 hit, "One of Us." After leaving the band, he briefly relocated to the United States before settling in Spain. He acquired a property in the residential complex of Betlem in Artà, Majorca.
Tragic Death
In 2007, Brunkert lost his wife, Inga, to illness. The following year, tragedy struck again. On March 18, 2008, he was found dead outside his home. Police initially suspected foul play due to cuts on his neck, but an investigation concluded that he had accidentally smashed a glass door, severing his throat. Despite his efforts to call for help, Brunkert died from his injuries.
Legacy
Brunkert and bass guitarist Rutger Gunnarsson were the only musicians to play on every ABBA album. Björn Ulvaeus, a former ABBA member, recalled Brunkert as "a good friend" and "a creative musician who contributed much to the band's music on tour and in the studio."
