Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” shines with the backing of a Danish orchestra

Procol Harum’s enduring classic, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has captivated listeners for decades and reached new heights of brilliance when performed with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle, Denmark. Frontman Gary Brooker has acknowledged Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major as an inspiration for the song, making its performance at the August 2006 concert a fitting homage.

This collaboration produced an unforgettable rendition of 15 songs, later compiled into a live album. The orchestra’s captivating introduction to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” set the perfect mood, with Brooker joining after 90 seconds, his voice as powerful as ever, echoing the song’s 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 brilliant move for Procol Harum, adding classical depth to their music. The orchestra enhanced the song’s impact, while the choir’s harmonies elevated the performance even further.

Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many praising it as the definitive version of the song. The emotional depth and resonance of the performance received widespread acclaim. Another standout was “A Salty Dog,” where the choir’s contribution added a poignant layer to the familiar piano introduction.

“A Whiter Shade of Pale” remains one of Procol Harum’s most iconic achievements, topping charts worldwide and selling over 10 million copies since its May 12, 1967 release. Its mysterious lyrics and vivid imagery captured the essence of the 1967 Summer of Love, solidifying its status as a timeless classic.

Though bandmate Matthew Fisher was initially not credited as a co-writer, a 2009 court ruling corrected this, officially recognizing his contribution. Lyricist Keith Reid has noted that the song’s inspiration was drawn more from literary sources than personal experiences.

Fans looking to explore more of Procol Harum’s music can find a wealth of content on the band’s official online channels. Their YouTube channel and Facebook page offer a rich variety of tracks, blending classical and rock influences. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their sound, Procol Harum promises a captivating musical journey.