Procol Harum’s iconic song, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has delighted fans for years and reached a new level of enchantment when performed with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Denmark’s Ledreborg Castle. The band’s lead singer, Gary Brooker, revealed that the song drew inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, which made the orchestral version during their August 2006 concert especially meaningful.
This collaboration led to a mesmerizing performance of 15 songs, later released as a live album. The orchestral intro to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” perfectly sets up the scene, followed by Brooker’s powerful vocals, echoing the song’s original 1967 version. This live version went viral online, attracting nearly 99 million views on YouTube.
Teaming up with the Danish National Concert Orchestra was a brilliant move, aligning with the classical roots of their music. The orchestra added a rich texture, while the choir’s smooth tones brought a heavenly quality to the performance.
Audience feedback was overwhelmingly positive, with many declaring it the ultimate version of the song. The concert also featured an emotional performance of “A Salty Dog,” highlighted by the choir’s touching delivery.
“A Whiter Shade of Pale” remains Procol Harum’s most celebrated work, having topped charts globally and sold over 10 million copies since its debut on May 12, 1967. The song’s mysterious lyrics and compelling imagery have made it a symbol of the 1967 Summer of Love, earning its place as one of the all-time great songs.
Initially, Matthew Fisher wasn’t credited as a co-writer, but a 2009 court decision corrected this oversight. Lyricist Keith Reid has said the song’s vivid imagery was inspired more by literature than personal experiences.
Procol Harum’s official channels are a gateway to their extensive music collection, featuring everything from orchestral pieces to classic hits. Their YouTube channel and Facebook page are ideal for both long-time fans and new listeners to explore their unique blend of classical and rock influences, promising a memorable experience in music exploration.
