A Danish orchestra brings a fresh, emotional touch to Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale”

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

This collaboration led to an unforgettable performance of 15 songs, later compiled into a live album. The orchestra’s captivating introduction to “A Whiter Shade of Pale” set the perfect tone, with Brooker joining after 90 seconds, his voice as powerful as ever, reminiscent of the song’s original 1967 release. The performance gained immense popularity online, amassing nearly 99 million views on YouTube.

Partnering with the Danish National Concert Orchestra was a brilliant move for Procol Harum, deepening the classical elements in their music. The orchestra enhanced the song’s impact, while the choir’s harmonies lifted the performance to new levels.

Audience reactions were overwhelmingly positive, with many hailing it as the definitive version of the song. The emotional depth and resonance of the performance were widely praised. Another highlight was “A Salty Dog,” where the choir’s contribution added a touching element to the familiar piano intro.

“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 release on May 12, 1967. Its enigmatic lyrics and vivid imagery captured the spirit of the 1967 Summer of Love, solidifying its status as a classic.

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

Fans eager to delve deeper into Procol Harum’s music can explore a wealth of content on the band’s official online channels. Their YouTube channel and Facebook page offer a rich selection of tracks, blending classical and rock influences. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to their sound, Procol Harum offers a compelling musical experience.