Michael Gordon Oldfield was born in Reading, Berkshire, England, to Raymond Oldfield, a doctor, and Maureen Liston, a nurse. He displayed musical aptitude from a young age, developing a keen interest in various instruments and musical styles.

As a young teenager, Oldfield began experimenting with musical instruments, teaching himself guitar, bass, and drums. He formed a folk duo called The Sallyangie with his sister Sally, recording their album 'Children of the Sun' in 1968. While not a major success, it provided early experience in recording and performing.

Oldfield joined Kevin Ayers and The Whole World as a bass guitarist at the age of 17. This experience exposed him to more experimental and avant-garde musical styles, further shaping his own musical vision and providing valuable experience in a professional setting.

During this period, Oldfield meticulously composed and recorded 'Tubular Bells'. He faced considerable difficulty finding a record label willing to take a risk on the unconventional, instrumental project. Finally, Richard Branson, newly establishing Virgin Records, saw potential in Oldfield's vision.

'Tubular Bells' was released as the first album on Virgin Records. It became an unexpected critical and commercial success, propelled by its innovative sound, cinematic scope, and use in the film 'The Exorcist'. The album launched Oldfield's career and established him as a major force in progressive music. It remained on the UK charts for 279 weeks.

Following the success of 'Tubular Bells', Oldfield released a series of ambitious and acclaimed albums, including 'Hergest Ridge' (1974), 'Ommadawn' (1975), and 'Incantations' (1978). These works further explored his signature blend of instrumental rock, folk, and classical influences, cementing his reputation as a visionary composer.

In the 1980s, Oldfield transitioned towards a more pop-oriented sound, incorporating shorter song structures and vocal collaborations. Albums like 'QE2' (1980), 'Five Miles Out' (1982), and 'Discovery' (1984) featured hit singles and demonstrated his versatility as a songwriter and producer.

The 1990s saw Oldfield return to longer, more progressive compositions with albums like 'Amarok' (1990) and 'Tubular Bells II' (1992). 'Amarok' was notable for its intricate and demanding structure while 'Tubular Bells II' was a reimagining of his original masterpiece, updated with modern production techniques.

Oldfield continued to explore different musical avenues in the 2000s, experimenting with electronic music and world music influences. Albums like 'Tr3s Lunas' (2002) and 'Music of the Spheres' (2008) showcased his ongoing commitment to innovation and creative exploration.

Oldfield released several more albums, including 'Return to Ommadawn' in 2017, which was seen as a return to form. He has since retired from public life, enjoying the fruits of his successful and influential career. His legacy as a pioneering and innovative musician remains strong.