Procol Harum and a Danish orchestra perform a hauntingly beautiful “A Whiter Shade of Pale”
Procol Harum’s iconic track, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has captivated fans for decades and reached new heights when performed alongside the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle, Denmark. Frontman Gary Brooker has noted that the song draws inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, making its performance at the August 2006 concert a fitting tribute.
The collaboration resulted in a stunning rendition of 15 songs, later compiled into a live album.
The orchestra’s engaging lead-in to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” perfectly set the tone, with Brooker joining after 90 seconds, showcasing his timeless vocal prowess, reminiscent of the original 1967 release. This performance has gained nearly 99 million views on YouTube.
Partnering with the Danish National Concert Orchestra was a brilliant choice for Procol Harum, amplifying the classical nuances in their music.
The orchestra enhanced the song’s emotional depth, while the choir’s harmonies elevated the performance even further.
Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many hailing it as the definitive version of the song. Fans praised the emotional and resonant quality of the performance. “A Salty Dog” was another standout, with the choir adding a poignant touch to the familiar piano intro.
“A Whiter Shade of Pale” remains a monumental success for Procol Harum, topping global charts and selling over 10 million copies since its debut on May 12, 1967. The song’s enigmatic lyrics and vivid imagery captured the spirit of the 1967 Summer of Love, securing its place as one of the greatest songs of all time.
Though the song initially did not credit bandmate Matthew Fisher, a 2009 court case rectified this, recognizing him as a co-writer.
Lyricist Keith Reid has stated that the song’s inspiration came more from literary sources than personal experiences.
For those eager to delve into more of Procol Harum’s extensive music catalog, the band’s official online platforms are filled with treasures, from grand orchestral pieces to classic hits.
