Born Gerard Hugh Sayer on 21 May 1948 in Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex, Sayer became one of the defining voices of 70s pop — instantly recognisable early on for his high register. Managed by ex-pop star Adam Faith and co-writing with David Courtney, he broke through with "The Show Must Go On" (1973) and racked up hits including "Long Tall Glasses", "You Make Me Feel Like Dancing" (US No.1, Grammy winner), "When I Need You" (UK/US No.1) and "More Than I Can Say".
A TV regular throughout the decade, he guest presented Top of the Pops in September 1980. He later moved to Australia, taking citizenship in 2009.