Listeners In 70s Awestruck By Procol Harum, Feel Inspired
Procol Harum’s legendary song “A Whiter Shade of Pale” has enthralled audiences for decades, with its performance alongside the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle in Denmark marking a historical peak. The song, inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, was beautifully highlighted during this August 2006 event.
This memorable collaboration was captured in a live album that included 15 tracks. The orchestra introduced “A Whiter Shade of Pale” with a captivating arrangement that set the stage for Gary Brooker, whose vocals after the first 90 seconds reminded fans of the song’s original 1967 magic. The performance has attracted nearly 99 million views on YouTube.
Joining forces with the Danish National Concert Orchestra proved to be a masterstroke for Procol Harum, infusing their music with enriched classical nuances. The profound impact of the orchestra combined with the choir’s harmonious vocals took the song to new heights.
The response from the audience was exceptionally positive, with many calling this the definitive rendition of the track. The emotional depth and resonance of the performance were frequently praised. The song “A Salty Dog” also stood out, with the choir adding an emotive depth to its well-known piano intro.
Since its debut on May 12, 1967, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” has been a monumental success for Procol Harum, topping charts worldwide and selling over 10 million copies. Its enigmatic lyrics and evocative imagery remain emblematic of the 1967 Summer of Love, cementing its status as a classic.
The song originally did not credit Matthew Fisher as a co-writer, which was rectified following a 2009 court decision. Lyricist Keith Reid has indicated that the lyrics were more influenced by literary sources than personal experiences.
Procol Harum continues to offer a vast array of music that spans grand orchestral compositions to timeless rock hits. Their online platforms, including their YouTube channel and Facebook page, serve as gateways for both longstanding fans and newcomers to explore the band’s unique fusion of classical and rock elements, ensuring a remarkable musical journey.
