Belgian pop star Frank Michael was born Franco Gabelli in Parma, Italy on May 7, 1953. While Michael was still a youth, his parents relocated to Belgium. From adolescence, he was inspired to become a singer, taking his first step toward that goal in 1974. Working as an electrical technician in a local factory, Michael put time and money toward the production of his first single, "Je Ne Peux Vivre Sans Toi." While many of his contemporaries were working traditional channels with success, Michael built his reputation from the ground up. Tireless touring and performing won him a large and loyal fan base throughout his native Belgium, France, Canada, and beyond. The artist's popularity continued to flourish throughout the 2000s.