Procol Harum was the original singers and writers of this song, the man preforming is the lead singer of that band Gary Brooker is his name , he passed away last year I believe, the original song is a classic, check it out one day, thank you for this ♥️
Picture your parents as teens. Laying back , smoking funny things. This album playing on the hi-fi and being taken on a trip your mind created. That is procul haram
This song came out in 67 when I was in college. And I've loved it ever since. No matter how many times I hear it, it still gets me in my feels. The addition of an orchestra and choir just takes it to another level. What a magnificent performance! Bravo!! And thanks Jamal for keeping good music alive!
And this was 39 years later and Gary sounded even better than the studio version..How I'm the HELL can THAT happen??? ...RIP Mr. Booker and thanks for the Magic..
One of the strongest vocalists in terms of holding onto his peak qualities for so long. This had to be a huge rush for him to see this song get the spectacle treatment and boy was it up to the task. Strong arrangement and the interplay between orchestra and band was super.
This is not the first time he has done this song with a full orchestra and choir. As a matter of fact - their best selling album was a live performance recorded with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Greenwood Choir in 1972. Their hit song Conquistador was a single released from that concert. They did A Whiter Shade of Pale in the 20th anniversary reunion concert with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Greenwood Choir in 1992.
I did not like this song back in the day. But I only heard it on classic rock stations because I wasn’t old enough to be paying attention to the radio. I was born in 1962 and the song came out in 1967. It was played all my life on radio and my dad played it in our home. That being said, this version has had me fall absolutely hard in love with it. I can’t believe this man’s voice held up to this greatness after all those years. I get chills every time I hear this version. I have listened to it 100 times!❤️❤️❤️
Annie Lenox sang this decades after the original in honor of the original sung by Gary Booker. It came out in 1967 and was considered by many as the theme song of the "Summer of Love". In my opinion, this is the best version ever with the full orchestra accompaniment. And Booker's voice only got richer and more golden with age. Great reaction Jamel! Thank you!!
I agree, especially since I was born and raised in Denmark. Love to see the Danish symphony orchestra, Gary Booker sounds as good as ever. This concert took place at a castle that I'm very familiar with, seeing both set of my grandparents lived close to that location.
As a young man, Gary knew he had World Class Pipes but worked very hard to improve them...Steve Perry did the same by working with an Opera singer (Pavarotti, I think) to add a half Octave...All great vocalists want to know how far they can go. For Gary to maintain his voice until he passed is unreal
THE LOUSIEST VERSION OF THIS SONG I HAVE EVER HEARD !! PURE BS - ! THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WTH THIS SONG OF 1967 ! THIS IS "" HOW TO KILL A MASTERPEACE "" !!!!
This came out when I in high school. The boys came away from the walls to ask a girl to slow dance during this song. This later version has so much soul.
Gary Brooker and Procol Harum released this song in 1967. Gary was 22. This will be the greatest version you will ever hear with Gary being 61. The orchestra and choir is an ensemble of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra. Together they took this masterpiece to a whole new level. Rest easy Gary.
The guy thinks a girl is in to him, then she realizes that he is Into her and that he thinks she's into him too, but she's not, and has to let him know. But, I also think he's saying that we all are that way. He's not the only one to whom that happens. Which is why the lyrics aren't very specific. And it is that way about a lot of things in life. In a broad sense it's about unpleasant realities, of which we are unaware intruding at points into our lives. Which may work because the lyrics aren't specific.
Jamel, thank you for covering this song. It brought me back in time to my childhood when we had amazing music. For several minutes, I was transported back in time to being a teenager again listening to this beautiful song sung by the one and only Gary Brooker who is deceased now. I am in my 60's now reminiscing a time long passed. For the younger generation, enjoy your youth and appreciate the classic songs like this one because before you realize anything your youth will be gone and you will be where I am now. God Bless.
Just today I was driving some people I work with who carpool with me, and I have the studio version of this on my USB drive in my car. I was telling them about this performance, and how it's even better than the studio version. I love the original song, but this performance takes it to another level.
When this came out in 1967, George Harrison said it opened a whole new set of possibilities for where popular music could go. That was a truly heart-felt reaction, much appreciated!
Lyrics by Keith Reid, music by the band Procal Harum, Lead vocal Gary Brooker. Original song released in 1967. Was a classic way back then and hasn't lost anything even today.
The original 1967 hit by Procol Harum didn't feature the orchestra. The Hammond B3 Organ was the main feature. But Gary Brooker's voice held up until he was well into his 60s. What an instrument he had! RIP. They had one other hit, though it wasn't as big as this. Still, it's well worth checking out, and they performed it at this same outdoor concert. Find the video for "Conquistidor." Whole different vibe, but no less musically interesting. Still, I think this is the best live, orchestra treatment of a hit rock 'n roll song that I've ever heard.
It's hard for me to believe that there are people that never heard this song. Originally came out in 67, it was part of my life. This rendition with the original vocalist is fantastic
This is an American Opera done by an old school rock band and accompanied by an orchestra. I was born in 1950 and my mom and dad were music lovers from their time in life. No they didn't care much for our music, but it's amazing to me now in 2023 that our music is admired by young adults and even some teens. Our music like our parents was done by some remarkable musicians. So glad you enjoyed it, even though you were having trouble describing it. Eyes closed and going to a place where the music starts and gets your emotions stirring in your heart and streaming from your eyes!!!
Jamal, you really have never heard this before? Welcome to a great masterpiece; by the way, thank you so much for this. God Bless you and your family, in Christ name Amen.
He sounded just like he did all of those years ago. RIP, Gary Brooker. Thanks for sharing your voice with the world while you were here with us. Thanks for your reaction, Jamel. Take care and be well. Peace.
Love this song. I actually prefer the studio version from the 60's as it is the one I grew up on. This live version is very good though as it shows how powerful Gary Brooker's voice was even as he got older. "Conquistador" is another great song by Procol Harum. Sad to hear of his passing recently.
Gary Brooker’s voice aged like a fine wine. This live performance is epic! I’ve watched it countless times over the years, and am transported to the musical ethers every time! ❤
The look on Jamel’s face when Gary began to sing…priceless! It’s my favorite reaction of his. Those of us of a certain age already knew what was coming!
I grew up in the 60's and it was a magical time. The era for me was really the late 50's, all of the 60's and half of the 70s. Every week we heard new songs that we knew would become classics and they did. I saw the following artists in person: Four Seasons (3 times), Temptations (twice) Beach Boys (twice- the second time one of the band members was sick and a guy who later became famous, Glenn Campbell, took his place, Rascals, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Happenings, Kenny Rogers, Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, James Taylor, The Guess Who, Dion, The Dave Clark Five, The Lovin Spoonful, The Association, Dion Warwick, The Fifth Dimension, The Supremes, Maurice Williams and The Zodiacs, Steppenwolf, Gordon Lightfoot, Oliver, P.O.D. (15 years ago), Jimmy Ruffin, Jackie Wilson (the second to last show he performed), Bread, The Classics IV, and Lou Christie. I think I have left out one or two but you can see what a wonderful age it was. I love your reactions and willingness to stick your neck out for new music. Keep the faith baby! I look up to you, I am 5'9"! Procol Harum was big during my tour of duty, and we listened to it on the Armed Forces Network.
This song is 56 years old! The original didn’t have the Orchestra like this one. Check out the original studio version as gives a totally different mood to this wonderfully grander version.
Pre-dated Annie Lennox by about 20years. Originally released in the UK in the summer of love,1967. It was everywhere that magnificent,carefree summer. I was 13 and lapped it all up.
Those pipes are amazing. I can't fathom what that feels like to have that inside you. These reaction videos to this truly introduced this song to so many. RIP Gary
I've always loved this song and Procol Harum, and never get tired of this version! So beautiful, and takes me back to the time of my youth. This song was released in 1967 when I was 10 yrs. old, and it was iconic throughout the 70s in my teens. What a legendary piece of music! Rest In Peace Gary Brooker. Thanks Jamel for this great reaction choice! ✌💙✌
Oh just pure magic, I was so lucky to grow up with this song and all the other artists in the 60's and 70's .. yeah just the microphone, his voice and the orchestra, love to watch him now
Monster hit when released in May, '67- goes all the way to #1 in the groups native UK, and to #5 here. This live performance in 2006, has the vocalist, (Gary Brooker) almost forty years removed from the original recording. Until '72, the group never had much chart success either with albums or singles. It was then, that the single 'Conquistador' was released for the first time, even though it was on the groups first album. ('67) It is on the soundtrack for the movie 'The Big Chill' (1983) I know. The melody is kind of haunting- the organ is killer.
Incredible performance, and my favorite version of the song. Considering that he said he wrote the song starting with a couple of bars of Bach's "Air on a G-string", it wouldn't surprise me if this was similar to what he heard in his head when composing the music.
I have my original 45 rpm from 1967.. a year after I graduated. Procol Harum was a Rock group and part of the British invasion into the US. Listening to Gary Brooker over 40 years later, ( Think this was in Denmark in 2006 ) I have to say his voice is even better than the original. The instrumental is haunting, masterful and seasoned. I wish I could have seen him perform one more time before he passed away. A 60's iconic classic and a legendary song writer, musician and vocalist.
This is actually a event that The Danish National Symphony Orchestra held back in 2006. They held it at a place called Ledreborg.They did this several years in a row. They would invite different artists to participate, and that became fantastic. Procol Harum have changed musicians over the years, but the singer is the same. His voise is fantastic.
Gary Brooker (RIP) put on one of the best live performances ever with this orchestra. I was blown away the first time a saw this & it still gives me goosebumps today. When Gary passed last year they were planning on going back touring again as they always had. I think his death was somewhat of a surprise. All those years & all those shows, he never lost an ounce of his voice.
This is what I like about so many of the classic rock songs, they can add and orchestra and slow them down just a bit and they are still amazing songs. Not sure much of the music today will be able to have that happen in 40 or 50 years.
Jamel I can't believe you haven't heard Procal Harum before. Gotta check out Souvenir of London, Simple Sister and Power Failure to name but a few. Great band! Gary Brooker outstanding songwriter
The single 45 record - Whiter Sade of Pale by Procol Harum spent many, many, many weeks at the top of the charts when it was first released. One of the progressive classics along with Nights in White Satin
LISTEN TO THE ORIGINAL AS WELL I grew up with Procol Harum's original 1967 release of this, no orchestra but the same type of electric (Hammond) organ. It has lifted my spirits throughout my life. Personally I find both recordings equally good in their different ways.
This is the sound of my youth - - I'm from 1951 - and it was the music we loved- the tapestry of my youth-. Relax - - there is no -""come on " . He was inspired by Johan Sebastian Bachs "Air on the G-string". Thank you for the reaction .
Hagar Schon Aaronson Shrieve (also known as HSAS) was a rock supergroup band featuring lead vocalist Sammy Hagar (Van Halen), lead guitarist Neal Schon (Journey), bassist Kenny Aaronson and drummer Michael Shrieve. HSAS does a fantastic cover of this song, check it out it's worth it.
Gary Brooker voice saunas exactly the same as it did in 1967, when this song was first released. That's incredible. He smashed it - again! Based on the Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. I loved it then, and love it now. Thanks, Gary Brooker, and RIP. This song was written by Keith Reid and Gary Brooker.
Hasn't lost any of its power and the voice is richer even than young. What a phenomenal delight in the meadow of God Only Knows What Park in England...I think?
Annie Lennox's LP Medusa was comprised mostly of covers done in her own style. This song was one of her covers, and was originally performed by Procol Harum.
You need to be a movie star.. You have all natural facial expressions and sincere words to capture an audience. You are very respectful keep it that way. God bless you..
In answer to your question, Jamel Whiter Shade Of Pale was originally performed by Procal Harum, Annie Lennox's version is a cover This song was also covered by Doro Pesche
Gary Brooker, lead vocals and pianist here founded Procol Harum in 1967, this was their first release from their DEBUT album released the same year, it topped their native UK Charts for 6 weeks, peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100, it is one of the most commercially successful singles in history having sold over 10 MILLION copies worldwide and INCREDIBLY there are over 1,000 known cover versions by other artists, thus performance was nearly 40 years after its release and Gary and the band I think probably got better over time like a fine aged scotch whisky 🥃 Sadly, GB passed away in February 2022 😢
Hard to believe that you have not done this before while so many reactors have covered this live version months and years ago. A brilliant performance decades after the original recording sounding even better.
This song always reminded me of my dad who passes in 1982 when I was 10. To this day i don't know why it does. Tomorrow is his birthday. He would have turned 90. It still makes me cry when I here it. Great reaction!
Denise...you're crying with love from you're father and he loved you and you will see him in heaven. I can't wait to see my 38 yr old sister and Mother.
This has always been one of my favorite songs. The music, and Brooker's voice combine to evoke a lot of emotions out of nonsensical lyrics, it's amazing. A whiter shade of pale refers, obviously, to the death of the woman who maye have been a virgin, and in my interpretation has died of an overdose, or he could be imagining all of it while on an acid trip. Trying to interpret this song's meaning is a lost cause so envision whatever you care to, and enjoy it for what it is. 👍😎✌
Procol Harum was always more classically-influenced than your average rock band of the 60s. As others have mentioned, this was based on Bach's music, and the original studio version is a hippie anthem from 1967. PH recorded and released a live album with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra in 1972, and the version of Conquistador from that album is definitely another great moment for the band. Gary Brooker did a tour with Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band in the 90s and performed an excellent version of Whiter Shade.
Procol Harum was the original singers and writers of this song, the man preforming is the lead singer of that band Gary Brooker is his name , he passed away last year I believe, the original song is a classic, check it out one day, thank you for this ♥️
I believe you're right. I think that he passed away last February from cancer.
Gary Brooker had a beautiful voice!
Awe he did I was wondering about if he passed. I'm sad
Picture your parents as teens. Laying back , smoking funny things. This album playing on the hi-fi and being taken on a trip your mind created. That is procul haram
I think you'll find that Bach originally wrote the song - Air on a G String.
His voice somehow got better as he aged.
This may be the best orchestra-backed song ever. RIP Gary Brooker. Well done
I'm getting a win from this page. Do you know what that's all about.
@@marshaneedham880 Scam
@@kd6836 I thought so. Thank you so much for getting back to me
@@marshaneedham880 You are welcome.
This and Master of Puppets off Metallica S&M
This song came out in 67 when I was in college. And I've loved it ever since. No matter how many times I hear it, it still gets me in my feels. The addition of an orchestra and choir just takes it to another level. What a magnificent performance! Bravo!! And thanks Jamal for keeping good music alive!
I was 7 and my sister was 17, I am soooo damn lucky to have an older sister
@@loriparker7755 Yes you were! I'm sure she Introduced you to some great music!
And this was 39 years later and Gary sounded even better than the studio version..How I'm the HELL can THAT happen??? ...RIP Mr. Booker and thanks for the Magic..
@@vincentwhitley1119 Totally agree!
Truly a remarkable performance!
@@miltonslocum8957 40 years later he sounds even better...I am thinking of Paul Rogers and Brian Howe, ..maybe Steven Tyler too, but who else???
One of the strongest vocalists in terms of holding onto his peak qualities for so long. This had to be a huge rush for him to see this song get the spectacle treatment and boy was it up to the task. Strong arrangement and the interplay between orchestra and band was super.
This is not the first time he has done this song with a full orchestra and choir. As a matter of fact - their best selling album was a live performance recorded with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Greenwood Choir in 1972. Their hit song Conquistador was a single released from that concert.
They did A Whiter Shade of Pale in the 20th anniversary reunion concert with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra and Greenwood Choir in 1992.
😊
I did not like this song back in the day. But I only heard it on classic rock stations because I wasn’t old enough to be paying attention to the radio. I was born in 1962 and the song came out in 1967. It was played all my life on radio and my dad played it in our home. That being said, this version has had me fall absolutely hard in love with it. I can’t believe this man’s voice held up to this greatness after all those years. I get chills every time I hear this version. I have listened to it 100 times!❤️❤️❤️
Same for me!
Ja je slusam čitav život ,i uvijek kao prvi put
I can’t love what you stated enough❤️
39 years later and Gary sounds even better.. Unbelievable!!
Same here!!❤❤❤❤
Annie Lenox sang this decades after the original in honor of the original sung by Gary Booker. It came out in 1967 and was considered by many as the theme song of the "Summer of Love". In my opinion, this is the best version ever with the full orchestra accompaniment. And Booker's voice only got richer and more golden with age. Great reaction Jamel! Thank you!!
Annie Lennox sings the hell out of this song !!
I can definitely see the influence there.
Annie Lennox. Oh man her version makes me cry.
Absolute classic. His voice if possible was better 50+ years after he first recorded this. Rest in Peace Gary Brooker
I agree, especially since I was born and raised in Denmark. Love to see the Danish symphony orchestra, Gary Booker sounds as good as ever. This concert took place at a castle that I'm very familiar with, seeing both set of my grandparents lived close to that location.
As a young man, Gary knew he had World Class Pipes but worked very hard to improve them...Steve Perry did the same by working with an Opera singer (Pavarotti, I think) to add a half Octave...All great vocalists want to know how far they can go. For Gary to maintain his voice until he passed is unreal
The fun of growing up in the 50s 60s and 70s was that you never new what you were going to here music wise.
So true! An embarrassment of riches!
Dan....u still alive? Just kiddin
We were so spoiled with all the musical talent back then. I didn't even realize it until I started watching these reaction videos.
I was born in the mid 70's and have always said that I wish I would have grew up in the time you talked about......
He just passed a few months ago. RIP Gary Brooker. ❤️🫶🏻❤️
What an amazing version of an amazing song. This song is 100 percent his. Procal Harum. Annie Lenox was paying tribute to Procal Harum 🙏🤗😇🦋🐬💜❣️
One of the most beautiful performances! One for the ages!
THE LOUSIEST VERSION OF THIS SONG I HAVE EVER HEARD !!
PURE BS - !
THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WTH THIS SONG OF 1967 !
THIS IS "" HOW TO KILL A MASTERPEACE "" !!!!
@@malegrissusran8847 Don't listen, then.
@@SueK51
I was not listen this time -
i was listen this Video some years ago !
It makes headache and a wish to crotch !
An absolute masterpiece!
@@wayne1074
The original verison is a masterpiece - but
this : softie - version is a big Bullshit !
This came out when I in high school. The boys came away from the walls to ask a girl to slow dance during this song. This later version has so much soul.
I'm 70 and have lived through some of the best and worst eras of rock music. This was from one of the best.
Because it was based on Bach it sounds amazing when played by an orchestra.
You know...after listening to this I was struck by the sadness of wanting to see this live still but realizing that cant happen....
I never tire of this performance. R.I.P. Gary Brooker
Ditto
Same! ❤
Gary Brooker and Procol Harum released this song in 1967. Gary was 22. This will be the greatest version you will ever hear with Gary being 61. The orchestra and choir is an ensemble of the Danish National Symphony Orchestra. Together they took this masterpiece to a whole new level. Rest easy Gary.
One of those songs where the lyrics make no sense, but also make PERFECT sense! One of the most beautiful tunes in all of rock'n'roll
The guy thinks a girl is in to him, then she realizes that he is Into her and that he thinks she's into him too, but she's not, and has to let him know. But, I also think he's saying that we all are that way. He's not the only one to whom that happens. Which is why the lyrics aren't very specific. And it is that way about a lot of things in life. In a broad sense it's about unpleasant realities, of which we are unaware intruding at points into our lives. Which may work because the lyrics aren't specific.
@@mikelucey5035you nailed it.
Jamel, thank you for covering this song. It brought me back in time to my childhood when we had amazing music. For several minutes, I was transported back in time to being a teenager again listening to this beautiful song sung by the one and only Gary Brooker who is deceased now. I am in my 60's now reminiscing a time long passed. For the younger generation, enjoy your youth and appreciate the classic songs like this one because before you realize anything your youth will be gone and you will be where I am now. God Bless.
Yes!
We could not change the channel without finding a GREAT piece of music! We were spoiled.
I don't know what kind of music this is today, but you can never replace the 🎵 music of the 60's and 70's and that my friend is no lie. Just love it.
I was 19 years old when this dong came out,it is a classic.John Lennon said it was the best song he ever heard.R.I.P. Gary you will be missed!
I was 13!
Just today I was driving some people I work with who carpool with me, and I have the studio version of this on my USB drive in my car. I was telling them about this performance, and how it's even better than the studio version. I love the original song, but this performance takes it to another level.
When this came out in 1967, George Harrison said it opened a whole new set of possibilities for where popular music could go. That was a truly heart-felt reaction, much appreciated!
I have always loved this song, but for me, this live performance takes it to a new level. Simple beautiful.
One the greatest vocal performances in Rock history. Just brilliant. RIP Gary.
Lyrics by Keith Reid, music by the band Procal Harum, Lead vocal Gary Brooker. Original song released in 1967. Was a classic way back then and hasn't lost anything even today.
The original 1967 hit by Procol Harum didn't feature the orchestra. The Hammond B3 Organ was the main feature. But Gary Brooker's voice held up until he was well into his 60s. What an instrument he had! RIP. They had one other hit, though it wasn't as big as this. Still, it's well worth checking out, and they performed it at this same outdoor concert. Find the video for "Conquistidor." Whole different vibe, but no less musically interesting. Still, I think this is the best live, orchestra treatment of a hit rock 'n roll song that I've ever heard.
Absolutely stunning performance .. If this doesn't reach down to your soul than you shouldn't listen to music
It's hard for me to believe that there are people that never heard this song. Originally came out in 67, it was part of my life. This rendition with the original vocalist is fantastic
This is an American Opera done by an old school rock band and accompanied by an orchestra. I was born in 1950 and my mom and dad were music lovers from their time in life. No they didn't care much for our music, but it's amazing to me now in 2023 that our music is admired by young adults and even some teens. Our music like our parents was done by some remarkable musicians. So glad you enjoyed it, even though you were having trouble describing it. Eyes closed and going to a place where the music starts and gets your emotions stirring in your heart and streaming from your eyes!!!
Jamal, you really have never heard this before? Welcome to a great masterpiece; by the way, thank you so much for this. God Bless you and your family, in Christ name Amen.
He sounded just like he did all of those years ago. RIP, Gary Brooker. Thanks for sharing your voice with the world while you were here with us. Thanks for your reaction, Jamel. Take care and be well. Peace.
One of only a few true masterpieces.
Love this song. I actually prefer the studio version from the 60's as it is the one I grew up on. This live version is very good though as it shows how powerful Gary Brooker's voice was even as he got older. "Conquistador" is another great song by Procol Harum. Sad to hear of his passing recently.
Brings tears nearly every time. This performance is a masterpiece. Peace/love!
Watch more from the same concert, Conquistador is amazing!!!!!!
Gary Brooker’s voice aged like a fine wine. This live performance is epic! I’ve watched it countless times over the years, and am transported to the musical ethers every time! ❤
The look on Jamel’s face when Gary began to sing…priceless! It’s my favorite reaction of his. Those of us of a certain age already knew what was coming!
This song is both sad and uplifting
True it’s can a complete contradiction of emotions. It’s a masterpiece
I grew up in the 60's and it was a magical time. The era for me was really the late 50's, all of the 60's and half of the 70s. Every week we heard new songs that we knew would become classics and they did. I saw the following artists in person: Four Seasons (3 times), Temptations (twice) Beach Boys (twice- the second time one of the band members was sick and a guy who later became famous, Glenn Campbell, took his place, Rascals, The Brooklyn Bridge, The Happenings, Kenny Rogers, Kris Kristofferson and Rita Coolidge, James Taylor, The Guess Who, Dion, The Dave Clark Five, The Lovin Spoonful, The Association, Dion Warwick, The Fifth Dimension, The Supremes, Maurice Williams and The Zodiacs, Steppenwolf, Gordon Lightfoot, Oliver, P.O.D. (15 years ago), Jimmy Ruffin, Jackie Wilson (the second to last show he performed), Bread, The Classics IV, and Lou Christie. I think I have left out one or two but you can see what a wonderful age it was. I love your reactions and willingness to stick your neck out for new music. Keep the faith baby! I look up to you, I am 5'9"! Procol Harum was big during my tour of duty, and we listened to it on the Armed Forces Network.
The piano and the Hammond B3 on this blending is just sublime...
If you loved that try this Jamel.
The Good, the Bad and the Ugly - The Danish National Symphony Orchestra (Live)
Yes, that is amazing.
This song is 56 years old! The original didn’t have the Orchestra like this one. Check out the original studio version as gives a totally different mood to this wonderfully grander version.
A legend even 50 years ago.
One of Gary Brooker's finest performances of this song inho. He had an amazing voice. Rest in peace..
Pre-dated Annie Lennox by about 20years.
Originally released in the UK in the summer of love,1967.
It was everywhere that magnificent,carefree summer.
I was 13 and lapped it all up.
R.I.P. Keith Reid 30th March 2023.....the band member who provided the exceptional lyrics to this exceptional classic 😔
Those pipes are amazing. I can't fathom what that feels like to have that inside you. These reaction videos to this truly introduced this song to so many. RIP Gary
I've always loved this song and Procol Harum, and never get tired of this version! So beautiful, and takes me back to the time of my youth. This song was released in 1967 when I was 10 yrs. old, and it was iconic throughout the 70s in my teens. What a legendary piece of music! Rest In Peace Gary Brooker. Thanks Jamel for this great reaction choice! ✌💙✌
R.I.P Gary Brooker one of the great singer from my generation, and one of my favorite songs
He still sounds great! Glad he's kept his voice 🙂
He past away last year
@@earthsurgery1237 Oh, no, I am so sorry to hear that. RIP and thank you for the awesome music legacy you left for us!
I lost my Dad last year and he always liked this song. Every time I see and hear this performance now it hits me emotionally on many ways.
Oh just pure magic, I was so lucky to grow up with this song and all the other artists in the 60's and 70's .. yeah just the microphone, his voice and the orchestra, love to watch him now
Im so glad you are still doing music reactions. This is an ultimate classic. Keep it up
Most songs you get tired of after hearing them over and over for years. This one never gets old to me
Monster hit when released in May, '67- goes all the way to #1 in the groups native UK, and to #5 here. This live performance in 2006, has the vocalist, (Gary Brooker) almost forty years removed from the original recording. Until '72, the group never had much chart success either with albums or singles. It was then, that the single 'Conquistador' was released for the first time, even though it was on the groups first album. ('67) It is on the soundtrack for the movie 'The Big Chill' (1983) I know. The melody is kind of haunting- the organ is killer.
This is a perfect example of how strong the Beatles influence was.
It allowed these artists to go to this kind of place
He still had it right up til the end. RIP good sir.
One of the greatest rock performances ever.
Incredible performance, and my favorite version of the song. Considering that he said he wrote the song starting with a couple of bars of Bach's "Air on a G-string", it wouldn't surprise me if this was similar to what he heard in his head when composing the music.
I have my original 45 rpm from 1967.. a year after I graduated. Procol Harum was a Rock group and part of the British invasion into the US. Listening to Gary Brooker over 40 years later, ( Think this was in Denmark in 2006 ) I have to say his voice is even better than the original. The instrumental is haunting, masterful and seasoned. I wish I could have seen him perform one more time before he passed away. A 60's iconic classic and a legendary song writer, musician and vocalist.
This is actually a event that The Danish National Symphony Orchestra held back in 2006. They held it at a place called Ledreborg.They did this several years in a row. They would invite different artists to participate, and that became fantastic. Procol Harum have changed musicians over the years, but the singer is the same. His voise is fantastic.
Gary Brooker (RIP) put on one of the best live performances ever with this orchestra. I was blown away the first time a saw this & it still gives me goosebumps today. When Gary passed last year they were planning on going back touring again as they always had. I think his death was somewhat of a surprise. All those years & all those shows, he never lost an ounce of his voice.
This is what I like about so many of the classic rock songs, they can add and orchestra and slow them down just a bit and they are still amazing songs. Not sure much of the music today will be able to have that happen in 40 or 50 years.
Jamel I can't believe you haven't heard Procal Harum before. Gotta check out Souvenir of London, Simple Sister and Power Failure to name but a few. Great band! Gary Brooker outstanding songwriter
Yes a standing ovation indeed! Got chills halfway in until the end. I've known this song forever. Great reaction, Jamel!
That was one of the most moving songs ever recorded.
Gary Booker and his mate wrote this in the 1967's and I was so glad it was my generation! Musicians truly
Jamal is a true connoisseur of talent. This is why we love him. Period.
Now, this is a true classic! Love this version of it. I get all teary eyed over its beauty every time I listen to it.
Stunningly beautiful and emotive, as good as their original maybe even better.
The single 45 record - Whiter Sade of Pale by Procol Harum spent many, many, many weeks at the top of the charts when it was first released. One of the progressive classics along with Nights in White Satin
If only rappers made this kind of music instead, what a better social world it would be.
LISTEN TO THE ORIGINAL AS WELL
I grew up with Procol Harum's original 1967 release of this, no orchestra but the same type of electric (Hammond) organ. It has lifted my spirits throughout my life.
Personally I find both recordings equally good in their different ways.
This is the sound of my youth - - I'm from 1951 - and it was the music we loved- the tapestry of my youth-. Relax - - there is no -""come on " . He was inspired by Johan Sebastian Bachs "Air on the G-string". Thank you for the reaction .
Anne I'm from 1952. The best years ever. I would not want to be young now. Too much drama. Too much bad. 😂😂
Hagar Schon Aaronson Shrieve (also known as HSAS) was a rock supergroup band featuring lead vocalist Sammy Hagar (Van Halen), lead guitarist Neal Schon (Journey), bassist Kenny Aaronson and drummer Michael Shrieve. HSAS does a fantastic cover of this song, check it out it's worth it.
Just a beautiful old time classic...timeless !
Gary Brooker voice saunas exactly the same as it did in 1967, when this song was first released. That's incredible. He smashed it - again! Based on the Chaucer's Canterbury Tales. I loved it then, and love it now. Thanks, Gary Brooker, and RIP. This song was written by Keith Reid and Gary Brooker.
Hasn't lost any of its power and the voice is richer even than young. What a phenomenal delight in the meadow of God Only Knows What Park in England...I think?
He's singing about a lost love. 5 decades later he still feel the pain.
Annie Lennox's LP Medusa was comprised mostly of covers done in her own style. This song was one of her covers, and was originally performed by Procol Harum.
Truly sublime and ethereal! A combination of Kenny Rogers and Michael McDonald… well done my man 😂😂👏🏻👏🏻
This is a Beautiful song !! Annie Lennox covered this song and did one hell of a job !! How could you not with a voice like Annie Lennox !
You need to be a movie star..
You have all natural facial expressions and sincere words to capture an audience. You are very respectful keep it that way.
God bless you..
"like a mixture of Kenny Rogers and Michael McDonald" NICE!!!
In answer to your question, Jamel
Whiter Shade Of Pale was originally performed by Procal Harum, Annie Lennox's version is a cover
This song was also covered by Doro Pesche
This is a perfect example of what an oboe is for. And Gary Booker sounds as good as he did in the 60s.
Every young piano student back in the day learned this organ part. I still use it as a warm up when I play these days.
Gary Brooker, lead vocals and pianist here founded Procol Harum in 1967, this was their first release from their DEBUT album released the same year, it topped their native UK Charts for 6 weeks, peaked at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100, it is one of the most commercially successful singles in history having sold over 10 MILLION copies worldwide and INCREDIBLY there are over 1,000 known cover versions by other artists, thus performance was nearly 40 years after its release and Gary and the band I think probably got better over time like a fine aged scotch whisky 🥃 Sadly, GB passed away in February 2022 😢
Best performance of this song, in my opinion. It’s been a favorite my whole life. His voice, the band, the orchestra- just beautiful
Hard to believe that you have not done this before while so many reactors have covered this live version months and years ago. A brilliant performance decades after the original recording sounding even better.
This is a re-upload, pretty sure.
This song always reminded me of my dad who passes in 1982 when I was 10. To this day i don't know why it does. Tomorrow is his birthday. He would have turned 90. It still makes me cry when I here it. Great reaction!
Denise...you're crying with love from you're father and he loved you and you will see him in heaven. I can't wait to see my 38 yr old sister and Mother.
That was a great era for concert attendance . This is them in their 50s.❤
Peace Jamal🌎✨️
Love this reaction video.and song RIP Gary Brooker musical genius 🎹🎤❤️
So Beautiful oohh my goodness my heart!! I remember this song when I was a teenager. Thank you for sharing this awesome video 😊💓🤘✌️
RIP to the amazing Gary Brooker.
This has always been one of my favorite songs. The music, and Brooker's voice combine to evoke a lot of emotions out of nonsensical lyrics, it's amazing. A whiter shade of pale refers, obviously, to the death of the woman who maye have been a virgin, and in my interpretation has died of an overdose, or he could be imagining all of it while on an acid trip. Trying to interpret this song's meaning is a lost cause so envision whatever you care to, and enjoy it for what it is. 👍😎✌
Such an amazing voice. Rest in peace Sir
Jamel - you described it perfectly - "DAMN!" Just a classic, classic song.. Well written, well sung! RIP Gary....
Procol Harum was always more classically-influenced than your average rock band of the 60s. As others have mentioned, this was based on Bach's music, and the original studio version is a hippie anthem from 1967. PH recorded and released a live album with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra in 1972, and the version of Conquistador from that album is definitely another great moment for the band. Gary Brooker did a tour with Ringo Starr's All-Starr Band in the 90s and performed an excellent version of Whiter Shade.
The Brits have made some great music. The Danish Chior and Orchestra is great too. Music has no borders, or boundaries.