After listening to this song for 50 or so years, i started bawling like a baby even before he sang one note because I know how beautiful this song is. We have to preserve this precious music because it won't be repeated,
Great music always makes me act like smoke gets in my eyes. But there's no smoke here. I appreciate your comment. From one real man to another. 👍 Thanks.
I urge you to revisit this performance when you’re about 30 years older. Realize that the singer is 40 years older than when he first recorded this & had lived 40 years worth of pain & life struggles, but he sounds even better & more passionate than ever. I loved this when I was 14, but love it even more now that I’m 66.
This whole show is simply magical. To have such a show on the grounds of Ledreborg castle in Denmark is beyond the Beyond. I saw Procol Harum the first time in 1972. The opening act was a brand new group called The Eagles. The ticket price was $4!! Rest in peace Gary Brooker one of the Great rock band leaders with an iconic voice for the ages.✌️☮️
Wow! They opened for Eagles!? Bet that was Amazing. Must have been after Take it Easy got some recognition..Eagles were opening for YES at their formation.
No matter how many times I see this rendition of Whiter Shade of Pale, it never fails to move me. RIP Gary Brooker, whose voice had aged like a fine red blaufrankisch at the time this was recorded. ✌️🙏
This song will live on, a hundred years from now, if civilization survives they will continue to be blown away by the beauty of it. This arrangement is nothing short of brilliant.
Even back in 67 when this song came out, we realized how unique & special it was. In a time when we all tended to prefer the more psychedelic experimental rock, somehow "A Whiter Shade of Pale" was loved by everyone....and still is today.
I saw Procol Harum in 2019. I always thought it was a good song. But hearing it live gave me goosebumps. I still get them 3 years later just talking about it. I have been to hundreds of live performances and without a doubt Whiter Shade of Pale was the single greatest moment of live music I ever experienced. Sadly we lost Gary this year. RIP.
I’ve been watching PH live for 50 years and my guitar was made by the brilliant guitarist Geoff Whitehorn. How anyone can not have heard of probably the world’s finest and most original bands leaves me gasping. RIP, Commander Gary Brooker MBE, who raised over £20m for charity, and played with George Harrrison, Kate Bush, Eric Clapton….and so on. Dear Gary….😥😥😥 Such beautiful music will never be seen again. The processed world has removed these people. Did I mention that Geoff played with IF, Crawler, Paul Rodgers…oh, never mind. Oh, and the other guitarists were Robin Trower, Mick Grabham… Well done for playing it: the most requested-ever song on the BBC. God speed.
Oh man, I was in floods of tears when I first saw this even though I've known the song pretty much all my life. Love it. RIP Gary Brooker, one of the all time greats
It's pronounced Procol (Harem, HAIR-em). Hope that helps Nick. Love your show, but we need a Kansas Marathon. So many people think prog can only come out of the UK. Kansas was born to prove them wrong!!
@@TexasRose50 Thanks for your comment, but I wasn't referring to their hits like Carry On & Dust in the Wind, although they are Livgren wonders. Everyone should listen to Kerry Livgren's deeper tracks like Lamplight Symphony, Incomudro-Hymn to the Atman, The Pinnacle, The Wall, Miracles out of Nowhere, Hopelessly Human, and Hold On. Or any other prog masterpiece composed & orchestrated with lyrics by "The Maestro" Kerry Livgren - truly a musical genius! We'd have so many more WHEATHEADs if people listened to his progressive songs other than the "hits."
Always loved this piece, but this live performance with an Orchestra--AND a choir, is perfection. Gary Brooker hadn't lost a beat. I know Lex will love this...STRONGLY recommend Salty Dog and Conquistador from this same concert.
Certain notes and chord or key changes obviously trigger your emotions. When a song does that for me I never really get tired of it and I will be drawn back to it from time to time. This song does that for me. Thanks for the reaction.
Najpiękniejszy utwór wszechczasów. Era najlepszych artystów przemija pomału. Mam nadzieję że te arcydzieła muzyczne przetrwają do następnych pokoleń. Te utwory chwytały za serce, rozdzierały duszę i dawały nadzieję. Czapki z głów dla tego wspaniałego artysty.
I’m 53 years old. This song came out the year before I was born so I’ve heard this song my whole life! It never gets old. So simple yet so beautifully orchestrated and magical! So glad to see young people like you enjoying a timeless piece of music!
This song has been making me cry for 57 years. I was 10 when it was released, and it was the first 45rpm vinyl that I ever bought. I saw them later that year at the Empire Pool Wembley, London. Just Gary, a piano, an organ, couple of lads on guitars, and Gary’s stand out vocals. Outstanding and sublime. RIP Gary. You’re so missed here in your homeland 🏴🇬🇧💔
I grew up with this song and Procol Harum all my life because my brother played this song in his band in the 60's.Every time I hear this song seems like the first time! Gary's voice NEVER got out of tune, hard to believe. To the very end he sounded Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!! God Bless you Gary, you were so close to the top of being the Best among a few others. Love You Gary!! Will see you again! That Organ as always helps make this song so powerful! And in this video the Chorus and Strings......OMG!!
An incredible job by the audio engineers who mixed this live performance! A full orchestra, sixteen voice choir, piano, B3 organ, bass, drums, guitars and vocal perfectly recorded.
Interesting side note: In December of this same year (2006), former Procol Harem organist Matthew Fisher was awarded 40% song writing credit for having written the organ part to the song.
"A Whiter Shade of Pale" has sold in excess of 10,000,000 copies which is a remarkable feat. Only about 40 songs in history have ever achieved this great feat. In 2004 the song also made it onto the top 60 of Rolling Stone’s notable ranking of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. In 1998, it was inducted into the highly-distinguished Grammy Hall of Fame. And in 1977 the Brit Awards gave it the distinction of being The Best British Pop Single 1952-1977, an accolade it shared with “Bohemian Rhapsody” (1975) by Queen. Also in 2018 the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame changed its criteria, allowing singles to be inducted into the institution as opposed to only musicians themselves. And “A Whiter Shade of Pale” was amongst the first songs to be enshrined therein. The success of this song has led to “a whiter shade of pale” being adopted as a common phrase in the English lexicon.
Greetings from Ireland. I remember as a young art student 42 years ago listening to the original version and it impacted me so much then, as it still does today. A timeless piece is music that will never end.
The original version has been my favorite song since I first heard it in 1967, I’ve probably heard it a thousand times and it still gives me chills and makes me cry. RIP Gary Brooker
Great reaction! Believe it or not, Jimi Hendrix, when he lived in the UK, was a big fan of Procul Harum and was present at their first gig in London, I seem to recall reading that he got up on stage for a couple of songs. Gary Brookers pipes in great shape even though he was he was around 60 at the time of this concert. R.I.P. Gary.
I always loved this when I was a kid, but I appreciate it even more now - especially this live version. Absolutely stunning piece - gets me emotional too through the sheer beauty of all the instruments and passion coming together.
This song has meant everything to me since 1967 when it was released. Seriously, Beethoven, Bach, Strauss would have all benefited from Gary’s voice as part of their orchestra. ❤️🔥
Hi Nick, this is such an amazing version all the more emotional because we recently lost Gary Brooker. I was only 11 years old in 1967 when I first heard this song and it has never been far away ever since, be it on the radio still, on tv archive music programmes and still the studio version is repeatedly on compilation albums released each year in one form or another. This timeless song is instantly recognizable as the organ sound within seconds hits the air waves. You now need to hear that studio version. Scholars and psycologists are still today among the many trying to understand the lyrics & meaning of the song which only shows the true genius behind the writing. Really quite extraordinary after all these decades. So good you got to see this Nick. Yes, music to touch the soul will always bring a tear. Without my music, I can honestly say I could not survive in this world. Thankyou for a great reaction, and to Michele for this request. Byee Jim X
To me this was the song that truely captured the mood of the late sixties / early seventies. I never thought you could ever improve that original version…I was wrong.
not proCOL harum, but the guy who sang it in the band 1967, who has passed on...Gary Brooker. john lennon stole the chord changes for 'a day in the life'...
Procol Harum's lyricist Keith Reid wrote the words to this song. In a Songfacts interview, he explained: "It's sort of a film, really, trying to conjure up mood and tell a story. It's about a relationship. There's characters and there's a location, and there's a journey. You get the sound of the room and the feel of the room and the smell of the room. But certainly there's a journey going on, it's not a collection of lines just stuck together. It's got a thread running through it." Reid got the idea for the title when it came to him at a party, which gave him a starting point for the song. Says Reid: "I feel with songs that you're given a piece of the puzzle, the inspiration or whatever. In this case, I had that title, 'Whiter Shade of Pale,' and I thought, There's a song here. And it's making up the puzzle that fits the piece you've got. You fill out the picture, you find the rest of the picture that that piece fits into
Thanks, Mark, for the background. I’ve always liked that there is a mysterious vibe to this song. Somehow it’s dramatic without being exactly clear in meaning so we fill in our own interpretation (like most great Art). Cheers and RIP Gary - what a vocalist /musician even after 40 years ! ✨😉
Never, EVER apologize for emotion - especially when music is involved! Music has always had a way of tapping my emotions - for happy or sad. Sometimes it's tied to a memory, or just the song itself! I have an ever growing list of songs (now as I get older) that do bring me to tears. This is a beautiful rendition of this song. The opening strings intro certainly adds to the magic & beauty. I generally REALLY love orchestral arrangements of songs.
Someone mentioned Lex, and I thought if she hasn't seen this, it would be a wonderful experience to share this with her, and you guys can have that as an experience to remember for a long time.
This is a beautiful version of Whiter Shade of Pale. Please do a reaction to A Salty Dog from the same concert. It will blow your mind. It's so emotional.
This is such a wonderful performance, and so much more poignant since we just recently lost Gary Brooker. (We say Hair-um.) (And Jethro has the 'th' from thirsty, with lots of tongue!) I don't know anyone from my generation who disliked this song- it was universally thought of as one of the "instant classics." Thanks, MM for the request, and Nick, thanks for your heartfelt reaction. I'd expect nothing less on this one! 🎵❤️🎵
Funny description, Debra, I remember well, when in 5th grade our english teacher Mr. Peter stood in front of each single pupil practicing "th", if necessary 10 times, but once it was in a word, several kids failed ... and never learned it ... so if you met someone who says "se whesser", the chance is pretty big, he or she is from Germany 🤣🤣🤣
@@rudolfbecker4313 haha 😂 English is such a difficult language coming from so many influences and “borrowing” from other languages. Then, there’s all the “rules” and all the “exceptions” to those rules. And so many inconsistencies, like “lathe” and “lather.” Crazy. 🤪 Good to see. ✨😉
@@michelemichele3375 good morning Night Owl (remember Gerry Rafferty?) I hope you'r e all doing fine ... seems to be a busy time on your side 🤔 English is so much easier than German, when we talk about grammar, I only say der,die,das ... you remember? in english the,the, the 🤣 and pronounciation is hard for those, who don't want to or can't learn a new language. Best example my uncle in R.I. living there since '73 he is one of those saying "se wesser" 🤣🤣hope you'll get some sleep before the morning comes ... makes me think of a german band Emergency .. having a wonderful song starting with "when it's early in the morning ..." good night 😜👋
@@rudolfbecker4313 Yes, I remember Gerry Rafferty. I’ve become a night owl and an early riser … and quite a bit like Elton’s song “Madman Across the Water.” 🫠 Lol 😝 Hope you’re well. ✨😉
In 1969, I asked my musician dad of his favorite song. He said “Whiter Shade of Pale”…he and my brothers played it together just before dad passed away giving it special meaning. Dad was a cool cat to the very end. 😎
As the years pass and we lose voices like this, I can't help but feel a pang in my heart each time. None was more heartbreaking than when I heard of Gary Brooker's passing. One of the best rock voices I have EVER heard. R.I.P. Gary.
impressive honesty in your reaction, thank you. I have ben lucky in my life to have seen many concerts over the years especially in the 80's (Bowie, Neil Young, Dire Straits, Dylan, Rolling Stones to name a few) and while most have had at least memorable moments, the i remember best was Bruce Springsteen at Wembley arena who was just under 4 hours of absolute brilliance. the pulsating energy of the band and crowd still takes me back there, brilliant. The way the crowd rose as one when the late great Clarence Clemons strode to the front of the stage for his first sax solo - wow, wow.
Magical performance by a legendary band. Keep your reactions raw, brother, as they should be. Well done for another super and intelligent reaction video!
55 years ago I heard this song , it's still .......... sorry I had to take a moment there......pardon me. This song sold over ten million copies as a single which puts it in a small exclusive club. For a very good reason. 🔥
Tearfully delightful reaction Nick! This was John Lennon's favourite single of 1967. Check out A Salty Dog too. I saw Procol Harum at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1970; Jethro Tull were the support band! Keep on welling up to music 😉
Back in the day this was one short listed as a go to slow dancin fave guaranteed to pluck your heart strings...this will never go out of style...Ty brother for this
This is a classic - imagine how this song evokes distinct memories of hearing it on the radio back in the day, etc. And glad you mentioned Brit Floyd, am going to see them in 2 days (for the 6th time!), they are amazing, and the music of Pink Floyd evokes so many emotions, even after 50+ years of hearing them.
This has been a favorite of mine for over 50 years. The version I'm familiar with, from back then, starts out with the organ, around 4 minutes in here, it played all the time on the radio.
I have always loved this song since the sixties. Gary Brooker, the pianist and songwriter, was a huge fan of J.S.Bach, and the melody of this song is akin to a Bach cantata. Ckeck out some of Procul Harum's albums, they were excellent musicians.
Amazing that his voice held up all these years, from when he first sung it in the mid-60's....must have kept up his vocal training. John Lennon considered this to be one of the greatest songs ever written/sung, and listened to it whenever he was out in his Bentley. RIP Gary.
Listen to the original version next to this. His voice is almost not even close to the original. This is certainly beautiful but, please, everyone playing this up as good as the original is smoking dope. My childhood memories laugh at you.
When I first heard this song in 1967, I wasn’t sure it would ever be as popular during the time of other music, which was totally different! It grows on you. And now with full orchestra behind him, it is spectacular!!
This song is so hauntingly beautiful. Gary Booker's voice is just as strong here as it was when this record first came out. It makes me feel very nostalgic and emotional too. Thanks for reacting to this one!🌿🍂🦋
Hey, don't worry about the emotion. Believe me, it only gets worse as you get older, or better; however, you want to look at it. I'm a cryer from way back, but since I'm 6' 4" 265, nobody's given me any crap. Don't worry about it. You've got a great heart and Lex is lucky to have you. God bless.
A fantastic reaction, Nick. It's just so wonderful and heartening to discover/find others like yourself who feel music to their very marrow and show it openly like I do myself. Thank you.
Thank you "NicknLex" for the wonderful song from Procul Harum and Gary Brooker (RIP Gary and a whiter shape of pale all time) And 1967 war Robin Trower (Bluesrock at is best) by Procul Harum Guitarist.
Brother Brooker at his finest(RIP)...Ty brother for this...check out the original track of "Simple Sister" from Procol Harum album entitled: Broken Barricades
the lyrics, the melody and the arrangements....all come together with Gary Booker's singing (RIP) makes for a very beautiful, moving song.......brings me back to the 60s and the wonderful songs of that decade.
Nick, I consider myself fortunate to have been born in 1947, so this is "the music" from my era, and by god was it great music, music which has stood the test of time. Sadly Gary Brooker is no longer with us (RIP) but his memory and music will live on for future generations to enjoy, and your channel makes that happen.
Thank God for YT. To be able to access these performances for all time. Will be in human consciousness for millenia like Chopin, Beethoven, Tshaichovsky and the Beatles. No one has a dry eye when they see it.
When this came out in the mid-sixties, I was in high school. I remember it being overplayed on the radio, but I still liked the song. This was concert was done 50 years later and it's more powerful now because Gary Brooker sings now with the same, or more soul than back then
One of my favorite songs. Im 68 yrs old and still love it.
After listening to this song for 50 or so years, i started bawling like a baby even before he sang one note because I know how beautiful this song is. We have to preserve this precious music because it won't be repeated,
Very true. One of the favorite songs from my generation.
I’m the SAME way! It’s a magical song. It has special powers! 😉😍👍
ABSOLUTELY
@@bobb9541 mine TOO!!
I love the original version but this performance really brought tears to my face! It is magical!
A real man knows the value of being able to cry, especially when it comes to the arts. Music speaks to your soul.
Great music always makes me act like smoke gets in my eyes.
But there's no smoke here. I appreciate your comment. From one real man to another. 👍 Thanks.
One of my top 5 songs ever
I urge you to revisit this performance when you’re about 30 years older. Realize that the singer is 40 years older than when he first recorded this & had lived 40 years worth of pain & life struggles, but he sounds even better & more passionate than ever. I loved this when I was 14, but love it even more now that I’m 66.
This is truly a masterpiece. What a beautiful legacy. How lucky the audience was to witness this amazing performance. Bravo Gary!
the singer Gary Brooker just passed away in February. what a great voice. this song was originally recorded in 1967!!!!
Ohh, very sad news. Well now this is the sad normal law. 🙇🏼♂️
Awww
I don’t think Gary Broker’s voice has lost a thing in more than 50 years.
♥️✌🏼😎
I guess we weren't listening to the same performance. This was beautiful and all but, please don't tell me he sounds even close to the original.
I’m right with you Randy…Recently I compared CONQUISTADOR from this Denmark performance and another one from 1973 and I thought the same thing❤️
@@davidhowell7279 I actually think his vocal performance in this is at least as good as the original.
@@davidhowell7279 I disagree, I think he sounds JUST AS GOOD as he did in the original. RIP Gary, you are MISSED
I would say Brooker's voice, like the finest wine, has improved and matured with age.
Tears of joy is the correct response to this MASTERPIECE!🎼🎙🎷🎸🎹🎺🎻🥁🎶👊
Real men cry. Don't be a shamed, brother. Real men cry
Yes I agree and I'm an old United States Marine too
Men dont cry because we are weak, its because we have tried to be strong for too long.
This whole show is simply magical. To have such a show on the grounds of Ledreborg castle in Denmark is beyond the Beyond. I saw Procol Harum the first time in 1972. The opening act was a brand new group called The Eagles. The ticket price was $4!! Rest in peace Gary Brooker one of the Great rock band leaders with an iconic voice for the ages.✌️☮️
So true.
Wow! They opened for Eagles!? Bet that was Amazing. Must have been after Take it Easy got some recognition..Eagles were opening for YES at their formation.
@@bjaded1 no the Eagles opened for Procol Harum
@@kbrewski1 I've looked and I've never found one
I am 52 now and I think I envy you a little bit.
RIP Gary Brooker. This rendition of Whiter Shade Of Pale will never be forgotten...
No matter how many times I see this rendition of Whiter Shade of Pale, it never fails to move me. RIP Gary Brooker, whose voice had aged like a fine red blaufrankisch at the time this was recorded. ✌️🙏
Rest in Peace Mr. Gary Brooker. ❤️
Eric Clapton once said that if someone wanted to write a perfect song, this would be it.
I have been getting chills from this song for 50 years now. Enjoy
This song will live on, a hundred years from now, if civilization survives they will continue to be blown away by the beauty of it. This arrangement is nothing short of brilliant.
Nick, I'm in my mid 60's and some music still brings tears to my eyes. If you have that now... you will never loose it. 😎
So true!
A lovely rendition of a beautiful song that is representative a time when music was meaningful. Tears are mandatory.
Even back in 67 when this song came out, we realized how unique & special it was. In a time when we all tended to prefer the more psychedelic experimental rock, somehow "A Whiter Shade of Pale" was loved by everyone....and still is today.
I saw Procol Harum in 2019. I always thought it was a good song. But hearing it live gave me goosebumps. I still get them 3 years later just talking about it. I have been to hundreds of live performances and without a doubt Whiter Shade of Pale was the single greatest moment of live music I ever experienced. Sadly we lost Gary this year. RIP.
what an arrangement!! Fantastic!!!!
I’ve been watching PH live for 50 years and my guitar was made by the brilliant guitarist Geoff Whitehorn. How anyone can not have heard of probably the world’s finest and most original bands leaves me gasping.
RIP, Commander Gary Brooker MBE, who raised over £20m for charity, and played with George Harrrison, Kate Bush, Eric Clapton….and so on. Dear Gary….😥😥😥
Such beautiful music will never be seen again. The processed world has removed these people.
Did I mention that Geoff played with IF, Crawler, Paul Rodgers…oh, never mind. Oh, and the other guitarists were Robin Trower, Mick Grabham…
Well done for playing it: the most requested-ever song on the BBC. God speed.
Oh man, I was in floods of tears when I first saw this even though I've known the song pretty much all my life. Love it. RIP Gary Brooker, one of the all time greats
Never stop crying when the music hits you Nick, it happens to me all the time, even with songs I've heard thousands of time.
It's pronounced Procol (Harem, HAIR-em). Hope that helps Nick. Love your show, but we need a Kansas Marathon. So many people think prog can only come out of the UK. Kansas was born to prove them wrong!!
@Jeffrey T, I agree! Never apologize when music touches your soul!
@Janice Kates, yes! Dust in the Wind by Kansas is awesome!!
@@TexasRose50 Thanks for your comment, but I wasn't referring to their hits like Carry On & Dust in the Wind, although they are Livgren wonders. Everyone should listen to Kerry Livgren's deeper tracks like Lamplight Symphony, Incomudro-Hymn to the Atman, The Pinnacle, The Wall, Miracles out of Nowhere, Hopelessly Human, and Hold On. Or any other prog masterpiece composed & orchestrated with lyrics by "The Maestro" Kerry Livgren - truly a musical genius! We'd have so many more WHEATHEADs if people listened to his progressive songs other than the "hits."
Always loved this piece, but this live performance with an Orchestra--AND a choir, is perfection. Gary Brooker hadn't lost a beat. I know Lex will love this...STRONGLY recommend Salty Dog and Conquistador from this same concert.
Especially this Salty Dog is so gripping!
I’m going to listen to both of those songs right now!
Certain notes and chord or key changes obviously trigger your emotions. When a song does that for me I never really get tired of it and I will be drawn back to it from time to time. This song does that for me. Thanks for the reaction.
Najpiękniejszy utwór wszechczasów. Era najlepszych artystów przemija pomału. Mam nadzieję że te arcydzieła muzyczne przetrwają do następnych pokoleń. Te utwory chwytały za serce, rozdzierały duszę i dawały nadzieję. Czapki z głów dla tego wspaniałego artysty.
It was a great song back in 1967 and great today. Gary, we miss you, thanks for your music. RIP
I’m 53 years old. This song came out the year before I was born so I’ve heard this song my whole life! It never gets old. So simple yet so beautifully orchestrated and magical! So glad to see young people like you enjoying a timeless piece of music!
This song has been making me cry for 57 years. I was 10 when it was released, and it was the first 45rpm vinyl that I ever bought. I saw them later that year at the Empire Pool Wembley, London. Just Gary, a piano, an organ, couple of lads on guitars, and Gary’s stand out vocals. Outstanding and sublime. RIP Gary. You’re so missed here in your homeland 🏴🇬🇧💔
Loved the original but this orchestral version is over the top 🥰 Thank you for the lovely reaction! 😘
I grew up with this song and Procol Harum all my life because my brother played this song in his band in the 60's.Every time I hear this song seems like the first time! Gary's voice NEVER got out of tune, hard to believe. To the very end he sounded Amazing!!!!!!!!!!!!! God Bless you Gary, you were so close to the top of being the Best among a few others. Love You Gary!! Will see you again! That Organ as always helps make this song so powerful! And in this video the Chorus and Strings......OMG!!
Well done Nick, nice review, Lynda (my wife and I) had this played at our wedding some 50 years ago!
WOW, it's a great song for a wedding. 50 yrs ago, you were married, and I was in the United States Marine Corps
An incredible job by the audio engineers who mixed this live performance! A full orchestra, sixteen voice choir, piano, B3 organ, bass, drums, guitars and vocal perfectly recorded.
Gary Brookers voice is as powerful today as it was 50 plus years ago , incredible . R.I.P. Gary . Great reaction .
He passed away so our memories of the 60's or 70's are disappearing.
The melody is BACH, Sleepers Wake, and Air On A G-String. A Salty Dog and Conquistador same concert are great too.
Interesting side note: In December of this same year (2006), former Procol Harem organist Matthew Fisher was awarded 40% song writing credit for having written the organ part to the song.
Gary Brooker. One of the greats. What a gifted and soulful musician he was. Never got the attention he deserved.
That look of disbelief or amazement (?) when Gary starts to sing.......😳...
That was my reaction too !
"A Whiter Shade of Pale" has sold in excess of 10,000,000 copies which is a remarkable feat. Only about 40 songs in history have ever achieved this great feat.
In 2004 the song also made it onto the top 60 of Rolling Stone’s notable ranking of The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time. In 1998, it was inducted into the highly-distinguished Grammy Hall of Fame. And in 1977 the Brit Awards gave it the distinction of being The Best British Pop Single 1952-1977, an accolade it shared with “Bohemian Rhapsody” (1975) by Queen.
Also in 2018 the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame changed its criteria, allowing singles to be inducted into the institution as opposed to only musicians themselves. And “A Whiter Shade of Pale” was amongst the first songs to be enshrined therein.
The success of this song has led to “a whiter shade of pale” being adopted as a common phrase in the English lexicon.
Greetings from Ireland. I remember as a young art student 42 years ago listening to the original version and it impacted me so much then, as it still does today. A timeless piece is music that will never end.
You'd probably like The Danish National Orchestra doing "The Good . . . The Bad and . . . The Ugly".
The original version has been my favorite song since I first heard it in 1967, I’ve probably heard it a thousand times and it still gives me chills and makes me cry. RIP Gary Brooker
No less than Peter Frampton when asked what the greatest rock song was ( by Rick Beato) responded without hesitation that WSOP was a "perfect" song.
I was 15 years old when it became a hit. Today it is still a hit. Great piece of music, very great voice by Gary.
Great reaction! Believe it or not, Jimi Hendrix, when he lived in the UK, was a big fan of Procul Harum and was present at their first gig in London, I seem to recall reading that he got up on stage for a couple of songs. Gary Brookers pipes in great shape even though he was he was around 60 at the time of this concert. R.I.P. Gary.
Awesome choice. A Salty Dog in same live concert is very moving and powerful too ❤️
I always loved this when I was a kid, but I appreciate it even more now - especially this live version. Absolutely stunning piece - gets me emotional too through the sheer beauty of all the instruments and passion coming together.
One of my favorite live performances, just perfect in every way ☮🤍
This song has meant everything to me since 1967 when it was released.
Seriously, Beethoven, Bach, Strauss would have all benefited from
Gary’s voice as part of their orchestra. ❤️🔥
Best live performance of all time
Hi Nick, this is such an amazing version all the more emotional because we recently lost Gary Brooker. I was only 11 years old in 1967 when I first heard this song and it has never been far away ever since, be it on the radio still, on tv archive music programmes and still the studio version is repeatedly on compilation albums released each year in one form or another. This timeless song is instantly recognizable as the organ sound within seconds hits the air waves. You now need to hear that studio version. Scholars and psycologists are still today among the many trying to understand the lyrics & meaning of the song which only shows the true genius behind the writing. Really quite extraordinary after all these decades. So good you got to see this Nick. Yes, music to touch the soul will always bring a tear. Without my music, I can honestly say I could not survive in this world. Thankyou for a great reaction, and to Michele for this request. Byee Jim X
To me this was the song that truely captured the mood of the late sixties / early seventies. I never thought you could ever improve that original version…I was wrong.
not proCOL harum, but the guy who sang it in the band 1967, who has passed on...Gary Brooker. john lennon stole the chord changes for 'a day in the life'...
Pretty sure that Lex would love this. Gary Brooker still has a great voice here in his 60's.
Procol Harum's lyricist Keith Reid wrote the words to this song. In a Songfacts interview, he explained: "It's sort of a film, really, trying to conjure up mood and tell a story. It's about a relationship. There's characters and there's a location, and there's a journey. You get the sound of the room and the feel of the room and the smell of the room. But certainly there's a journey going on, it's not a collection of lines just stuck together. It's got a thread running through it." Reid got the idea for the title when it came to him at a party, which gave him a starting point for the song. Says Reid: "I feel with songs that you're given a piece of the puzzle, the inspiration or whatever. In this case, I had that title, 'Whiter Shade of Pale,' and I thought, There's a song here. And it's making up the puzzle that fits the piece you've got. You fill out the picture, you find the rest of the picture that that piece fits into
Thanks, Mark, for the background. I’ve always liked that there is a mysterious vibe to this song. Somehow it’s dramatic without being exactly clear in meaning so we fill in our own interpretation (like most great Art). Cheers and RIP Gary - what a vocalist /musician even after 40 years ! ✨😉
@@michelemichele3375 No problem Michele. Thanks for sponsoring this classic song and this wonderful version.
Never, EVER apologize for emotion - especially when music is involved! Music has always had a way of tapping my emotions - for happy or sad. Sometimes it's tied to a memory, or just the song itself! I have an ever growing list of songs (now as I get older) that do bring me to tears.
This is a beautiful rendition of this song. The opening strings intro certainly adds to the magic & beauty. I generally REALLY love orchestral arrangements of songs.
It is a powerful and beautiful song that a lot of us get a little emotional when listening. It’s just a beautiful piece of music.
Someone mentioned Lex, and I thought if she hasn't seen this, it would be a wonderful experience to share this with her, and you guys can have that as an experience to remember for a long time.
Thought the same .
This is a beautiful version of Whiter Shade of Pale. Please do a reaction to A Salty Dog from the same concert. It will blow your mind. It's so emotional.
This is such a wonderful performance, and so much more poignant since we just recently lost Gary Brooker. (We say Hair-um.) (And Jethro has the 'th' from thirsty, with lots of tongue!) I don't know anyone from my generation who disliked this song- it was universally thought of as one of the "instant classics." Thanks, MM for the request, and Nick, thanks for your heartfelt reaction. I'd expect nothing less on this one! 🎵❤️🎵
Funny description, Debra, I remember well, when in 5th grade our english teacher Mr. Peter stood in front of each single pupil practicing "th", if necessary 10 times, but once it was in a word, several kids failed ... and never learned it ... so if you met someone who says "se whesser", the chance is pretty big, he or she is from Germany 🤣🤣🤣
@@rudolfbecker4313 haha 😂 English is such a difficult language coming from so many influences and “borrowing” from other languages. Then, there’s all the “rules” and all the “exceptions” to those rules. And so many inconsistencies, like “lathe” and “lather.” Crazy.
🤪 Good to see. ✨😉
@@michelemichele3375 good morning Night Owl (remember Gerry Rafferty?) I hope you'r e all doing fine ... seems to be a busy time on your side 🤔 English is so much easier than German, when we talk about grammar, I only say der,die,das ... you remember? in english the,the, the 🤣 and pronounciation is hard for those, who don't want to or can't learn a new language. Best example my uncle in R.I. living there since '73 he is one of those saying "se wesser" 🤣🤣hope you'll get some sleep before the morning comes ... makes me think of a german band Emergency .. having a wonderful song starting with "when it's early in the morning ..." good night 😜👋
@@rudolfbecker4313 Yes, I remember Gerry Rafferty. I’ve become a night owl and an early riser … and quite a bit like Elton’s song “Madman Across the Water.” 🫠 Lol 😝 Hope you’re well. ✨😉
@@rudolfbecker4313 I'm having trouble with "se whesser"- the what?
In 1969, I asked my musician dad of his favorite song. He said “Whiter Shade of Pale”…he and my brothers played it together just before dad passed away giving it special meaning. Dad was a cool cat to the very end. 😎
Good music makes the listener feel something deep in their soul.
Such a radical song in 1967. Gary still has it for sure in this performance. Such a sad loss earlier this year for the music world.
Procul Harum was mainly a prog/psychedelic band which also at one point had a guitarist by the name of Robin Trower!
As the years pass and we lose voices like this, I can't help but feel a pang in my heart each time. None was more heartbreaking than when I heard of Gary Brooker's passing. One of the best rock voices I have EVER heard. R.I.P. Gary.
Finally a brother who feels the emotions in the music, as I do! Thank you for sharing.
Gary Booker was as great then as he was in the early 70s....late 60s ! He has since passed away but this song lives on
Nick, I love it that music touches your heart as it does. I'm the same way. You never need to apologize for your feelings. Great reaction!
I was born in 58, all through my early life and teenage years the airwaves were filled with classic after classic. Not so much today.
impressive honesty in your reaction, thank you. I have ben lucky in my life to have seen many concerts over the years especially in the 80's (Bowie, Neil Young, Dire Straits, Dylan, Rolling Stones to name a few) and while most have had at least memorable moments, the i remember best was Bruce Springsteen at Wembley arena who was just under 4 hours of absolute brilliance. the pulsating energy of the band and crowd still takes me back there, brilliant. The way the crowd rose as one when the late great Clarence Clemons strode to the front of the stage for his first sax solo - wow, wow.
Hauntingly beautiful. Always makes me cry.
Magical performance by a legendary band. Keep your reactions raw, brother, as they should be. Well done for another super and intelligent reaction video!
This is great. That organ is amazing.
55 years ago I heard this song , it's still ..........
sorry I had to take a moment there......pardon me.
This song sold over ten million copies as a single which puts it in a small exclusive club. For a very good reason. 🔥
Tearfully delightful reaction Nick! This was John Lennon's favourite single of 1967. Check out A Salty Dog too. I saw Procol Harum at the Royal Albert Hall in London in 1970; Jethro Tull were the support band! Keep on welling up to music 😉
Back in the day this was one short listed as a go to slow dancin fave guaranteed to pluck your heart strings...this will never go out of style...Ty brother for this
This is a classic - imagine how this song evokes distinct memories of hearing it on the radio back in the day, etc. And glad you mentioned Brit Floyd, am going to see them in 2 days (for the 6th time!), they are amazing, and the music of Pink Floyd evokes so many emotions, even after 50+ years of hearing them.
This has been a favorite of mine for over 50 years.
The version I'm familiar with, from back then, starts out with the organ, around 4 minutes in here, it played all the time on the radio.
I have always loved this song since the sixties. Gary Brooker, the pianist and songwriter, was a huge fan of J.S.Bach, and the melody of this song is akin to a Bach cantata. Ckeck out some of Procul Harum's albums, they were excellent musicians.
Amazing that his voice held up all these years, from when he first sung it in the mid-60's....must have kept up his vocal training. John Lennon considered this to be one of the greatest songs ever written/sung, and listened to it whenever he was out in his Bentley. RIP Gary.
Listen to the original version next to this. His voice is almost not even close to the original. This is certainly beautiful but, please, everyone playing this up as good as the original is smoking dope. My childhood memories laugh at you.
When I first heard this song in 1967, I wasn’t sure it would ever be as popular during the time of other music, which was totally different! It grows on you. And now with full orchestra behind him, it is spectacular!!
This song is so hauntingly beautiful. Gary Booker's voice is just as strong here as it was when this record first came out. It makes me feel very nostalgic and emotional too. Thanks for reacting to this one!🌿🍂🦋
Hey, don't worry about the emotion. Believe me, it only gets worse as you get older, or better; however, you want to look at it. I'm a cryer from way back, but since I'm 6' 4" 265, nobody's given me any crap. Don't worry about it. You've got a great heart and Lex is lucky to have you. God bless.
The Live version of Conquistador is also a must
Very creative band in the day
Everytime I See/Hear This Performance,, O So Many Years Later & To Still Be Sooo Incredibly Powerful Is Truly Epic..A Beautiful & Timeless Classic.
What a production. Or
Orchestration, choir,and the boys themselves. Awesome!
A fantastic reaction, Nick. It's just so wonderful and heartening to discover/find others like yourself who feel music to their very marrow and show it openly like I do myself. Thank you.
This was John Lennon's favorite song when it came out...made them drive around in the crazy Rolls limo and play this over and over!
Thank you "NicknLex" for the wonderful song from Procul Harum and Gary Brooker (RIP Gary and a whiter shape of pale all time)
And 1967 war Robin Trower (Bluesrock at is best) by Procul Harum Guitarist.
This is an absolute masterclass in style
Brother Brooker at his finest(RIP)...Ty brother for this...check out the original track of "Simple Sister" from Procol Harum album entitled: Broken Barricades
the lyrics, the melody and the arrangements....all come together with Gary Booker's singing (RIP) makes for a very beautiful, moving song.......brings me back to the 60s and the wonderful songs of that decade.
Nick, I consider myself fortunate to have been born in 1947, so this is "the music" from my era, and by god was it great music, music which has stood the test of time. Sadly Gary Brooker is no longer with us (RIP) but his memory and music will live on for future generations to enjoy, and your channel makes that happen.
Thank God for YT. To be able to access these performances for all time. Will be in human consciousness for millenia like Chopin, Beethoven, Tshaichovsky and the Beatles.
No one has a dry eye when they see it.
The entire show is available on DVD and is a mind-blowing experience!
I would love to track that down.
When this came out in the mid-sixties, I was in high school. I remember it being overplayed on the radio, but I still liked the song. This was concert was done 50 years later and it's more powerful now because Gary Brooker sings now with the same, or more soul than back then
I was a teenager then. The sound of it makes me young again...
That's the beauty of music. Everyone I hear Pink Floyd animals I feel 13 years old again.
Did you know Robin Trower was in the band !
Whiter Shade of Pale... and Conquistador. ;-)
Beautiful music from the sixties and still a classical the 21st century pure gold ✨ 💛 👌 ❤ 💖 ♥ ✨