Witness Procol Harum and a Danish orchestra deliver a soul-stirring “A Whiter Shade of Pale”
Procol Harum’s timeless classic, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has enchanted audiences for decades and achieved new brilliance when performed with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle in Denmark. Frontman Gary Brooker credited Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major as an inspiration for the song, making its 2006 concert rendition a fitting tribute.
This collaboration delivered an unforgettable performance of 15 songs, later compiled into a live album. The orchestra’s captivating introduction set the stage for Brooker, whose powerful voice echoed the original 1967 release.
The performance gained immense online popularity, amassing nearly 99 million views on YouTube.
Partnering with the Danish National Concert Orchestra was a masterstroke for Procol Harum, adding classical depth to their music.
The orchestra enriched the song’s impact, while the choir’s harmonies elevated it further.
Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it the definitive version. The emotional depth of the performance received widespread praise. Another standout was “A Salty Dog,” where the choir added a poignant touch to the piano opening.
“A Whiter Shade of Pale” remains one of Procol Harum’s most iconic songs, topping charts globally and selling over 10 million copies since its May 12, 1967 release. Its mysterious lyrics and evocative imagery captured the essence of the 1967 Summer of Love, solidifying its status as a classic.
Bandmate Matthew Fisher was initially uncredited as a co-writer, but a 2009 court ruling corrected this, acknowledging his contribution. Lyricist Keith Reid noted that the song’s inspiration was more literary than personal.
Fans eager to explore more of Procol Harum’s music can discover a wealth of content on their official online channels. Their YouTube and Facebook pages feature a variety of tracks that blend classical and rock influences, offering a captivating musical journey for both longtime fans and newcomers.
