Mike Leander was a multifaceted figure in the music scene of Swinging London during the mid-1960s, known for his roles as a producer, arranger, and musical director. In 1962, he demonstrated his knack for recognizing potential hits by producing "Problem Girl," a song by Geoff Stephens, for the Chariots, an all-black UK-based group. This marked one of his earliest productions.

In 1963, Leander's career took a significant turn when he met a young Jimmy Page at the Marquee Club in London. Leander invited Page to work on studio sessions, which became a stepping stone in Page's career. That same year, Leander signed a three-year contract with Decca Records as a musical director at the age of 22, leveraging his arranging and orchestration skills to cater to the youth market.

In 1964, Leander worked with Andrew Loog Oldham and the Rolling Stones, contributing as a musical director for the Andrew Oldham Orchestra. He co-wrote the B-side "There Are But Five Rolling Stones" during a session that included a cover of Phil Spector's "To Know Him Is To Love Him." His position at Decca allowed him to collaborate with some of the best talents in British pop music, often at the onset of their careers.