Born in Worcestershire, England, Palmer began his singing career in the early 1970s when he joined Scarborough-based band Brave New World as their lead singer.
In 1974, Palmer sang lead and backing vocals on the British and European chart hit "The Bump", although he did not make public appearances alongside the other performers, the London group Kenny.
After he left the band, Palmer stayed in Germany, recording and touring with other similar and notable German Progressive Rock Groups such as Satin Whale and Gänsehaut.
In 1984, Palmer released two further singles, "She's Leaving Home", a Beatles cover that he had recorded whilst in Germany with the assistance of Jürgen Fritz (Triumvirat), followed by "When One Door Closes", a track from Without an Aim.
Around the same time, and under the duo name of Cover Up, Palmer dueted with John Payne of Asia on songs titled "Love The One You're With" and "Feel the Fire", written by Stephen Stills and Palmer/Payne respectively.
"God Bless the Children" was also selected to be sung by all the (1987) Miss World contestants that same year whilst they were appearing at the Royal Albert Hall in London.
His most notable success during this period was when he produced the UK hit "Lies" b/w "I Need Experience" for Amanda Scott (real name Avis Hopkins, the youngest sister of Bonnie Tyler).
This was to be followed (September 2012) by his latest studio album titled Night Thoughts, with all tracks written by Palmer and his London-based close friend and songwriting partner, Dave Duncan.