Procol Harum is a British rock band that formed in the 1960s, known for their unique blend of progressive rock, classical music, and psychedelic inspirations.
They became famous for their 1967 hit single, “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” which was one of the most popular songs of the time and remains a landmark in rock history.
Over the years, the band went through several lineup changes, with Gary Brooker being the only consistent member. Despite this, they continued to release albums and tour, maintaining a loyal fan base.
About the Song
A Whiter Shade of Pale is a mix of baroque-inspired melodies and psychedelic rock, with poetic lyrics that have mesmerised the listeners for decades.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | May 12, 1967 |
| Album | Procol Harum |
| Writers | Gary Brooker, Keith Reid & Matthew Fisher |
| Producers | Denny Cordell |
A Whiter Shade of Pale Lyrics
Intro
Verse 1
We skipped the light fandango
Turned cartwheels ‘cross the floor
I was feeling kinda seasick
But the crowd called out for more
The room was humming harder
As the ceiling flew away
When we called out for another drink
The waiter brought a tray
Chorus
And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face, at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
Bridge 1
Verse 2
She said, there is no reason
And the truth is plain to see
But I wandered through my playing cards
And would not let her be
One of sixteen vestal virgins
Who were leaving for the coast
And although my eyes were open
They might have just as well’ve been closed
Chorus
And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
Bridge 2
Additional Verse
She said, ‘I’m home on shore leave,’
Though in truth we were at sea
So I took her by the looking glass
And forced her to agree
Saying, ‘You must be the mermaid
Who took Neptune for a ride.’
But she smiled at me so sadly
That my anger straightway died
Chorus
And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
Verse 4
If music be the food of love
Then laughter is its queen
And likewise if behind is in front
Then dirt in truth is clean
My mouth by then like cardboard
Seemed to slip straight through my head
So we crash-dived straightway quickly
And attacked the ocean bed
Chorus
\And so it was that later
As the miller told his tale
That her face at first just ghostly
Turned a whiter shade of pale
Live Performances of The Song
Similar Songs Like A Whiter Shade of Pale
Here’s a list of similar soft and melodious songs like A Whiter Shade of Pale that you might want to check out:
- Repent Walpurgis: It is an instrumental piece that showcases the band’s classical and progressive rock. It’s a haunting track, full of intricate organ work and orchestral arrangements, showing the band’s experimental spirit.
- She Wandered Through the Garden Fence: This lush ballad has dreamy, surreal lyrics and a wistful melody. It’s one of Procol Harum’s more poetic and melancholic pieces, combining classical sound with their signature sound.
- Conquistador: It is one of Procol Harum’s most famous songs. It combines orchestral arrangements with rock elements, telling a story of a conquistador’s pathway. The song’s dramatic lyrics and powerful music made it a hit and a timeless classic.
Awards for The Song
| Category | Awards |
|---|---|
| 1977 Brit Award | Joint winner of Best British Pop Single 1952–1977 |
| 1998 Grammy Hall of Fame Induction | Recognized for lasting historical and cultural significance |
| 2018 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame | Inducted into the new Singles category for its impact and legacy |
Similar Artists Like Procol Harum
Below is the list of similar old-time artists like Procol Harum that you might love to browse through:
- The Moody Blues
Genres: Progressive Rock, Symphonic Rock
Top Albums: Days of Future Passed (1967), In Search of the Lost Chord (1968), A Question of Balance (1970) - The Zombies
Genres: Baroque Pop, Psychedelic Rock
Top Albums: Odessey and Oracle (1968), Begin Here (1965), The Zombies (1965) - Jethro Tull
Genres: Progressive Rock, Folk Rock
Top Albums: Aqualung (1971), Thick as a Brick (1972), Stand Up (1969)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Meaning of the Song A Whiter Shade of Pale?
The lyrics are metaphorical and evocative, often interpreted as describing a male/female relationship, possibly a drunken seduction, with nautical and literary imagery.
What Inspired the Title A Whiter Shade of Pale?
Keith Reid overheard the phrase at a party, which stuck with him as a poetic and evocative image.
How Many Verses are in the Original Recording of A Whiter Shade of Pale?
The original recording features two verses and a chorus, though the original lyrics had four verses, with the additional verses sometimes performed live.
