Procol Harum Teams with Danish Orchestra for a Heartbreakingly Beautiful Performance of “A Whiter Shade of Pale”

Procol Harum’s iconic song, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” has captivated audiences for decades and reached new heights in a mesmerizing performance with the Danish National Concert Orchestra and Choir at Ledreborg Castle, Denmark. The band’s frontman, Gary Brooker, revealed that the song drew inspiration from Johann Sebastian Bach’s Suite No. 3 in D Major, adding a special layer of tribute to their August 2006 concert.

This collaboration resulted in a spectacular set of 15 songs, later released as a live album. The orchestra’s captivating introduction to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” perfectly set the stage, with Brooker’s vocals entering after 90 seconds, echoing the song’s original charm from its 1967 debut. This rendition has gained immense popularity online, attracting nearly 99 million views on YouTube.

The decision to join forces with the Danish National Concert Orchestra brilliantly enhanced the classical nuances in Procol Harum’s music. The added depth from the orchestra and the smooth backing vocals from the choir elevated the entire performance, leaving the audience spellbound.

Reactions from the audience were exceptionally positive, with many hailing it as the definitive version of the song. The performance was noted for its emotional depth and resonance. “A Salty Dog” also stood out, with the choir adding a poignant touch to the well-known piano introduction.

“A Whiter Shade of Pale” continues to be a monumental success for Procol Harum, having topped global charts and sold over 10 million copies since its release on May 12, 1967. The song’s enigmatic lyrics and vivid imagery capture the spirit of the 1967 Summer of Love, cementing its status as a classic.

The song’s original release did not include credits for bandmate Matthew Fisher, but a 2009 court case rectified this, acknowledging his co-authorship. Lyricist Keith Reid has noted that the song’s evocative lyrics were inspired more by literature than personal experience.

For fans interested in exploring more of Procol Harum’s rich musical repertoire, the band’s official online channels offer a treasure trove of content, ranging from grand orchestral pieces to timeless rock classics. Their YouTube channel and Facebook page serve as portals to their unique fusion of classical and rock elements, providing a deep and engaging musical journey for both longtime followers and new listeners alike.