Listeners Over 70 Moved By Procol Harum, Embrace Hope

Procol Harum’s timeless song, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” continues to enchant fans, notably during a spellbinding performance with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle, Denmark. The band’s lead singer, Gary Brooker, remarked that the song draws inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, giving the August 2006 concert a unique reverence.

This remarkable collaboration gave rise to a live album featuring 15 songs. The orchestra’s compelling prelude to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” created an ideal ambiance, with Brooker entering after 90 seconds, showcasing the vocal prowess that marked the song’s initial 1967 release. The event’s impact extended online, where it garnered nearly 99 million views on YouTube.

Joining forces with the Danish National Concert Orchestra was a strategic decision for Procol Harum, amplifying the classical dimensions within their music. The orchestra’s rendition intensified the song’s emotional depth, while the choir’s harmonious vocals lifted the performance to new heights.

Audience feedback was exceptionally positive, with many labeling it as the definitive rendition of the track. The emotional resonance of the performance was particularly noted. Another highlight was “A Salty Dog,” where the choir enhanced the familiar piano introduction with a poignant vocal layer.

“A Whiter Shade of Pale” remains a monumental achievement for Procol Harum, having topped worldwide charts and sold over 10 million copies since its release on May 12, 1967. Its enigmatic lyrics and evocative imagery encapsulated the 1967 Summer of Love, solidifying its status among the greatest songs ever.

Originally, the song did not acknowledge bandmate Matthew Fisher, but a 2009 legal decision rectified this, crediting him as a co-writer. Lyricist Keith Reid has stated that the song’s influences stemmed more from literature than personal experience.

For those eager to delve deeper into Procol Harum’s extensive musical repertoire, the band’s official online platforms offer abundant resources, from orchestral masterpieces to classic rock tracks. Their YouTube channel and Facebook page serve as portals to the unique fusion of classical and rock elements that characterize their music, providing an enriching experience for both longstanding fans and newcomers alike.