Older Audience Finds Hope In Procol Harum’s Iconic Music
Procol Harum’s timeless track, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has enchanted audiences for decades, reaching a peak in its expression during a collaboration with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle in Denmark. Gary Brooker, the band’s lead vocalist, revealed that the song drew inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, making the August 2006 concert an homage to these classical roots.
The event featured an impressive lineup of 15 songs, culminating in a live album. The orchestra set a compelling tone for “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” creating a dramatic prelude into which Brooker’s voice seamlessly merged after 90 seconds, echoing the song’s initial allure from its 1967 debut. The rendition achieved significant online success, capturing nearly 99 million views on YouTube.
The decision to collaborate with the Danish National Concert Orchestra proved to be a masterstroke, amplifying the classical influences within their music. The deep resonance of the orchestra, paired with the choir’s harmonious backing, lifted the performance to new emotional heights.
The rendition received overwhelming acclaim from the audience, with many praising it as the definitive version of the track. Particularly noteworthy was “A Salty Dog,” where the choir’s emotive addition to the piano introduction left a memorable impact.
Since its release on May 12, 1967, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” has been a monumental success, topping charts worldwide and selling over 10 million copies. The song’s enigmatic lyrics and evocative imagery are reflective of the 1967 Summer of Love, ensuring its status as a classic.
Historically, the song’s credits did not include Matthew Fisher, leading to a 2009 court case that recognized his contributions as a co-writer. Lyricist Keith Reid has noted that the song’s narrative was more influenced by literature than personal experiences.
Procol Harum continues to offer a rich array of music through their official online channels. From grand orchestral compositions to timeless hits, their YouTube channel and Facebook page are gateways for fans old and new to explore the unique fusion of classical and rock elements that characterize their sound.
