Peter William Ham, known as Pete Ham, was a Welsh musician and songwriter born on April 27, 1947, in Swansea, Wales. He was the youngest child of William and Catherine Ham and grew up in Gwent Gardens, Swansea. Displaying musical talent from a young age, Ham was encouraged by his jazz trumpeter brother, John, to pursue music. He began his career in the local rock scene, eventually forming a band called The Panthers around 1961. This group underwent several transformations before becoming The Iveys in 1965.

The Iveys caught the attention of The Beatles' personal assistant, Mal Evans, and were signed to Apple Records in 1968. The band changed its name to Badfinger in 1969, achieving international success with hits like "Come and Get It," "No Matter What," "Day After Day," and "Baby Blue." Ham co-wrote the song "Without You" with bandmate Tom Evans, which became a worldwide hit for Harry Nilsson and later for Mariah Carey.

Despite his success, Ham faced challenges due to mismanagement and financial issues with Badfinger. Tragically, he died by suicide on April 24, 1975, in Woking, Surrey, England, at the age of 27. His legacy lives on through his music, particularly the enduring popularity of "Without You," which earned him two Ivor Novello Awards in 1973.