Gary Brooker (The lead singer) was a great friend of mine. We both lived in the same village and drank in the same pub. He played this song on the pub piano on my birthday one year knowing it was a favourite of mine. His voice got better with age, I believe this song still holds a record of some sort. The number one selling single of all time or something along those lines. Gary was a really nice genuinely and friendly guy and brilliant artist. R.I.P Gary!
We lived nearby (the other side of Godalming) and my friends mum worked at the chicken farm where they had a rehearsal space in a barn. She was always complaining about the noise 🙂
@Rolling_Ronnie I'm assuming that was the chicken farm at the end of the lane where he lived on Chiddingfold road. We lived next door to the Sun inn pub. Where he used to go most evenings.
@@Ted-FitzGerald That's right. We lived in Priorswood, just off the A3 and used to go to The Sun regularly (as well as many others). We also used to go to thee Gin Mill Club at The Angel where we first saw Genesis in their very early days
And that would come from the man who; among others, created "Imagine". Always humlbles me; these sounds and these thoughts never existed - until the moment one person brought them forth.
I was born in 1980, but I was brought with all music from the 50s to the present. I love so many genres of music, but 60's & 70's top my list, then the 80s. All those great singers and bands and songs that will never get old. So many bring me to tears just hearing them, and they always make me stop what I am doing.
Gary Brooker was the leader, singer and keyboardist for the English prog/psychedelic rock group Procol Harum. He passed away in 2022. This song in particular, Brooker was inspired to write it based upon a classical piece from 300 years ago, Air on a G String by Bach.
I think it was called something like the Miller's tale from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, had to read it in High Scholl in the '70's written in Old English.
Whenever I see this, the crowd sitting in the sun in big red chairs on the plush lawn, family, friends, and couples gathered round, listening to celestial sounds, I imagine this is heaven. Blessed ❤
If you can still sing a song like this so perfectly 50 years after you released it, you are a special person and this was a special concert. Also, I am not ashamed to admit that this version caused me to shed a few tears. Absoulutely magnificent.
I was 10 years old when this first hit the airwaves, and it literally stopped me in my tracks; it was one of my earliest experiences of the way which music could basically bring me to my knees. I am old now and have lived a life - the time remaining is short, but the roads I have walked stretch out behind me in a vast tapestry. Originally there was no symphony but as with all fine music this is a tale which has grown in the telling. I found sharing the experience with this young lady to be wonderful on so many different levels - what a beautiful little soul she is. I hope she never loses that sense of wonder, and the world offers her all the sounds that it has. So grateful to witness this 😁🥰😯
Paul McCartney said "It was the first evening any of us had ever heard a record called A Whiter Shade of Pale with words about feeling seasick. The lyrics were all very strange and poetic and the theme was a famous Bach theme but we didn't know that. We just thought, God, what an incredible record! It was sort of a marker record. It was a benchmark. And we were all trying to guess who it was. So we had to go to the booth and ask, 'What was that one you just played?' and he said, 'Oh yes, Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum. 'Procol what? Is it Latin or something?' And there were rumours around about what that meant. So all the mystery of the evening".
This was the first thing I taught myself to play on the organ when I was 10. It's lived in my heart ever since. A simple piece to learn but the notes are so well chosen and effective, a bit like a Gilmore guitar solo. 🖖🏽❤🇬🇧
I started working in Ghana, West Africa in 1996. On about the second week I was there, we were driving along the coastal highway late at night. Not another soul or car could be seen. There were no streetlights, and there were no buildings along the stretch we were driving. The sea was on our right, the relentless incoming march of waves could be seen. We were along in the universe. Suddenly, this song comes on the radio. The organ notes first. I remember the sky--the Milky Way strung across it, and the burning light of unfamiliar constellations as that voice you love you so much sang us across the earth. It was unbelievably sublime
The world was blessed with Gary's magical voice for for over five precious decades. His passing only makes me treasure him more. R.I.P. Gary Brooker. Thank you for the music.
Whoever did the arrangement for the orchestra and choir was certainly gifted. It's bold and subtle at the same time and evokes emotion even before Gary Brooker takes over. While this is a Procol Harum song, the only original member of that band here is Brooker. I agree with you, Aileen, his vocals are gorgeous and he touches our emotions so deeply. Procol Harum began life in the early 60's as a UK Rock and R&B band called The Paramounts. They were hugely popular but never really got that elusive chart hit. It wasn't until they reformed as Procol Harum and focused the music more on storytelling Folk and dabbled in Psychedelic music that they made their name, though their Rock and R&B roots weren't left behind. They managed a number of hits but none of them matched the massive popularity of Whiter Shade. The band's lineup also fluctuated, with guitarist Robin Trower finding some success as a solo act.
I had the distinct honor to accompany Proco Herum when I was concert pianist for the Kansa City Philharmonic Orchestra, twice and the Star Light Theater and twice at the Lyric Opera house. The Hammond B-3 Electric organ just adds that extra haunting sound to the song. Gary and I became friends through our collaborations. Gary didn't play piano back in those days as he does here. I miss my friend, when he passed the musical world grew just a bit less bright. Gary's passing left a void that will never be filled. Rest in Peace my friend until we meet again. In the meantime, entertain the Lord and heavenly host, I'm sure they love it as much as we mere mortals did.
Such a beautiful song. I'm a 90s kid but because of my dad I learned to love classic rock from the 60s and 70s. It was such a special time for music. I've always loved this song but I've never seen this amazing performance!
It's amazing how deeply you seem to feel the music, i'm a 1981 baby, so i lived through one of the best music decades, so i love watching your throwback reactions,
@@robinnnnnnnnnnnn yeah Freddie mercury and queen are one of the greatest bands of all time .Freddie god bless him is theeee best singer live .live aid at Wembley. The queen performance is outstanding. RIP Freddie
I believe the song is so sad is because on an unconcious level you know the song is about a woman who died from an overdose after tripping the light fantastic thereby she turned a whiter shade of pale.
This was ranked the best song of 1967 and has often been near the top of the best of all rock songs. Procol Harum was my favorite band as a teenager back in the 60s. Gary Booker's voice and writing were spectacular. The combination of Gary's piano and Matthew Fisher's organ was one of the most unique sounds in rock. Procol Harum was a vanguard of progressive music, along with King Crimson, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, and Yes. Their songs always sounded heavenly. They were the Epica and Nightwish of their generation. Other songs to listen to... Homburg, A Salty Dog and In Held Twas In I.
60's bands, like Procol Harum, have held up their relevance and brilliance for 70 years. So much so, that it commands the respect of Symphonic artists.
One of the most iconic songs from the late 60s. It's actually done pretty close to the original here and his voice hasn't really changed across the years. RIP Gary Brooker
Procol Harum is the name of a rock group. This song was a hit from 1967. Lead singer and co-writer, Gary Booker, still sounds good. The original hit didn't have the orchestra, however.
@@Wellch Brocol Harum was the name of the cat. I am not sure, but I think that the cat was owned by one member of the band. Procol Harum is Latin and it means "beyond things". The song is a masterpiece and also the name of the cat is lovely and exceptional like the song itself.
Easy to tell you really enjoyed this, Aileen. Imagine how it was for us hearing it for the first in 1967 when the Beatles were still together. This song and the overall feel was a stand out. Amazingly Gary Brooker's voice has got even better.
The original recording was done with the Hammond B-3 organ that the guy played after the piano verse. I liked it since it came out (I was only 7 at the time but had older brothers and sisters who listened to rock and pop music). The haunting melody combined with the B-3 sound was always wonderful but when they added the Danish Orchestra and the Danish National Choir for this performance, it took it to another level. Thanks for the reaction.
Actually, the ORIGINAL recording was done WITHOUT the organ. The song had been recorded and the band was ready to promote it before they hired Matthew Fisher. When Mr. Fisher was hired, he added the Hammond organ part that did so much to make the song an icon. That was back in May 1967. What's also interesting is that Mr. Fisher waited 38 years, until 2005, before instituting a lawsuit to claim his percentage of credit relating to his contribution to the song. He ultimately prevailed and was awarded a 40% "share" of the writing credit, entitling him to future royalties.
This one came out when I was 5 yrs., and radio stations played it often enough throughout my childhood years for me to always remember it and those times. I always love hearing this one.
I’m so glad you’re reacting to this 😀😀🤟 Rock On, so glad you ‘felt it’. Tunes like this give me major goosebumps, especially when you mix an orchestra into what’s supposed to classic rock is remade with such emotion. It really hits me in the hearts and just turn up the volume.
Gary Brooker's voice never ceased to amaze me! His rasp, so unforced, just soothes your ears. You will want to enjoy "Conquistador" from the same concert. We always had this on our "Driving on the highway" playlist. A little more dramatic than this beautiful ballad. Enjoy, Bella!
Aileen this guy's name is Gary Brooker. Sadly we lost him recently but some of us have enjoyed his vocal and keyboard talents since the sixties. This is the latest reincarnation of the band Procol Harum. Hardly any, if any of the original band are here. I'm not sure now, but this was an absolutely massive hit in the sixties. No-one had heard anything like this before or since and it has maintained its popularity ever since because of its originality, and it still sounds as fresh today as ever. I urge you to delve into the back catalogue Aileen. There are some amazing classic sounds there. RIP Gary Brooker.
Someone who GETS IT. Feeling music in this manner...Blessing or curse? I feel for the people who do not immediately react as you have. Is there any other option? Genius piece, God- approved performance. The audience are beyond blessed.
I love this song, I wasn't even born yet when this was released. I can't remember what movie or TV show played this, when I first heard it, but I have loved it ever since. Good selection!
If you ever watch the movie The Commitments (and you should! - it's about a group of dirt-poor, very white Irish kids in Dublin in the 90s who become a 60's-style soul group, and it's got some fantastic musical performances), there's a part of the movie where they visit their local church to arrange to use a room for a performance, and their piano player sits down at the church organ and plays this song. There was also an episode of House, MD where Wilson buys House an organ, and House immediately plays Whiter Shade Of Pale. This song was an instant classic and has become a touchstone for generations of people, and it's still magical every time you hear it.
Every time I see this performance I tear up. This song and this concert made it more of a masterpiece. Some of the refrain is Bach. Yes, that Bach. Loved your reaction and comments. As we say in Texas; y'all be safe. All y'all.
The music is adapted from classical composer J.S.Bach. the band were classically trained but played in a rock band and kept adding 'twiddly bits' at the requests from the audience. This is considered to be the birth of Prog Rock.
Most of the musicians from this era were classically trained. You can really tell the difference. Guys like Richie Blackmore often had multiple instrument competencies.
Holy cr*p the British REALLY punched above their weight musically. Decade after decade. I always thought this band was US but not so. STUNNING song and stunning live vocals.
I love this song for so many years! But I have never cried while listening to this wonderful tune - so it's a "first time" for me as well. Thank you, Aileen!
Wonderful! Thank you, Aileen, for sharing this classic redo of a classic rock song. It's been so many years since we first heard this one, and it just keeps on giving. 😊
The greatest pop song ever written and performed. This music when first heard in the late 60's really did have the power to change lives and was so very influential in mine ... Astoundingly beautiful music!
The first time I heard this song I was at the lake with my parents and family. It was coming out of the speakers at the concession stand. My Dad came looking for me. His voice as strong as the first time I heard this. There is so much to learn from all these songs the 60's, 70's, 80's. So much history, so many stories
Procol Harum - "A Whiter Shade of Pale" Absolutely beautiful !!! BUT This version with orchestra and choir covers up what made it memorable and iconic. The haunting sound of the organ,. The studio version is what I hear in my head and is the version I will always want to hear.
One of the most award-winning and best-selling and most-covered songs in rock music history. This song is musically based on a famous tune by Johann Sebastian Bach, the Air from his Orchestral Suite No. 3 2. Air, BWV 1068, (AKA the "Air on the G string") Elsewhere here on UA-cam is an interview with Gary Brooker where he says "If you trace the chordal element, it does a bar or two of Bach's 'Air on a G String' before it veers off. That spark was all it took. I wasn't consciously combining rock with classical, it's just that Bach's music was in me." Here on UA-cam are several videos that discuss the many modern popular music hits that were inspired by or based on (or ripped-off) J.S.Bach and other "classical" composers.
You got whisked away to a world that I grew up with! This and a few others are anthems for that time and go right to my heart and soul! I'm so happy to see you react to this!
I wont cite specifics, but since my dad passed in november i been unable to listen to this song. Saw this reccommended and decided to try...and now crying floods of tears on the bus. But this is absolutley amazing...
I’m in my 60’s also . First time hearing this was in my teens. Seeing your honest reaction was so cool! Your passion and expressions show your true feelings. Plus you’re extremely beautiful and intelligent!
Such a rich and profoundly touching reaction to this beautiful song, Aileen. ❤ This was the debut single for the band pack in 1967, and it immediately took the world by storm, soaring to #1 everywhere. That was no small feat when you were running up against groups like The Beatles, The Stones, etc.
In 1967, Gary Brooker and Keith Reid wrote this timeless masterpiece. It stayed at number 1 in the UK charts for 6 weeks. This will be played in a hundred years and it will still be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone who listens to it. We are blessed to be here for this. RIP Gary and Keith and thank you for this wonderful song.
I remember this song from the late sixties, always loved when it came on the radio. There's 2 "promotional" videos here on UA-cam that you should also check out just to see the difference a few decades makes in a classic rock song. Oh, the original starts out with the organ solo that's a couple of minutes in on this version. The gent at the piano is the late Gary Brooker, the drummer, keyboard player, bass, and electric guitar are Procul Harum. Gary is and original member not sure on the others.
Soon to be 40 (one month), lost my father to cancer 12 years ago. This song was one of his favourites so my cousin sang this during his funeral so this song has a special meaning for me.
I was lucky to see them live in Mexico City in 1969. The joy and happiness you expressed in your reactions was so beautiful.Thank you for this incredible gift
I love this song and have done so since it came out. The DSO bring a fantastic arrangement to life. The only thing is that one can hear the ghost of JSB in the background. Truly one of the greatest influences in western music
I really apprciate you listening to these songs it reminds me of so many that I have forgotten over the years. Thank you very much. Wishing you the best
Our childhood was filled with great music. I just watched your reaction to Moody Blues….well, this played constantly right along with it and so many others!
Gary Booker, the singer, the organist, bass guitar and lead guitar are the band Procol Harum. This is a mega hit they had decades ago. This is them performing it surrounded by a full orchestra - it is quite awesome!! Thanks!
![This was BEYOND THINGS! ✨| Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade of Pale (Denmark 2006)[REACTION]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/NZ-fQoPXN8s/mqdefault.jpg)
![This was BEYOND THINGS! ✨| Procol Harum - A Whiter Shade of Pale (Denmark 2006)[REACTION]](/img/tr.png)
Gary Brooker (The lead singer) was a great friend of mine. We both lived in the same village and drank in the same pub. He played this song on the pub piano on my birthday one year knowing it was a favourite of mine. His voice got better with age, I believe this song still holds a record of some sort. The number one selling single of all time or something along those lines. Gary was a really nice genuinely and friendly guy and brilliant artist. R.I.P Gary!
Fabulous origonal band, Gary was the glue and a fabulous muso and man.
I still play this song
We lived nearby (the other side of Godalming) and my friends mum worked at the chicken farm where they had a rehearsal space in a barn. She was always complaining about the noise 🙂
@Rolling_Ronnie I'm assuming that was the chicken farm at the end of the lane where he lived on Chiddingfold road. We lived next door to the Sun inn pub. Where he used to go most evenings.
@@Ted-FitzGerald That's right. We lived in Priorswood, just off the A3 and used to go to The Sun regularly (as well as many others). We also used to go to thee Gin Mill Club at The Angel where we first saw Genesis in their very early days
@@Rolling_Ronnieneighbors meeting over youtube!
RIP Gary Brooker. Your music will live forever in our hearts
John Lennon once proclaimed that this was the best song he ever heard. Real music, real talent, real charisma and a legacy for the ages.
And that would come from the man who; among others, created "Imagine".
Always humlbles me; these sounds and these thoughts never existed - until the moment one person brought them forth.
I didn't know that...Thank you !! John had always be good tastes in music....❤❤❤❤❤😂😂😂❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I agree,,the best ever
Yeah I believe he even had a special record player installed in his Cadillac convertible so he could drive around NYC with this song on full blast.
@@paramounttechnicalconsulti5219 "Imagine no possessions", while sitting in a $1,000,000 house playing a $300,000 piano...
Here I am in 2024, 67 years of age, yet my heart belongs in the 60's and 70's. Thanks for another great reaction.
I feel you , Philip...I'm 67 also and stuck in the sixties forever and proud of it...
Same age, we were lucky to grow up with true classics
Same age here being born in 56 we are so lucky!
Ditto, Too True, the music of our youth...
I was born in 1980, but I was brought with all music from the 50s to the present. I love so many genres of music, but 60's & 70's top my list, then the 80s. All those great singers and bands and songs that will never get old. So many bring me to tears just hearing them, and they always make me stop what I am doing.
Gary Brooker was the leader, singer and keyboardist for the English prog/psychedelic rock group Procol Harum. He passed away in 2022. This song in particular, Brooker was inspired to write it based upon a classical piece from 300 years ago, Air on a G String by Bach.
I think it was called something like the Miller's tale from Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, had to read it in High Scholl in the '70's written in Old English.
I'm 80 and tears still roll down my cheeks listening to this. Good job...you felt it too.
39 years after the original came out (1967), Gary Brooker's voice is just as good!
The most B...s ..Version of this song !
Horrible !
@@malegrissusran8847 What?
I think his voice is so much better than in 67.
@malegrissusran8847 you obviously know nothing
@@malegrissusran8847 Would you please annoy people somewhere else?
This song came out in 1967 when I was born. It will be played at my funeral.
Whenever I see this, the crowd sitting in the sun in big red chairs on the plush lawn, family, friends, and couples gathered round, listening to celestial sounds, I imagine this is heaven. Blessed ❤
If you can still sing a song like this so perfectly 50 years after you released it, you are a special person and this was a special concert.
Also, I am not ashamed to admit that this version caused me to shed a few tears. Absoulutely magnificent.
A beautiful song made all the more special with an orchestra and live. This was a great choice for reaction.
One of the reasons an old guy like me subscribed to your channel is to watch your emotions discovering these profound classics. I love it. ❤
I was 10 years old when this first hit the airwaves, and it literally stopped me in my tracks; it was one of my earliest experiences of the way which music could basically bring me to my knees. I am old now and have lived a life - the time remaining is short, but the roads I have walked stretch out behind me in a vast tapestry. Originally there was no symphony but as with all fine music this is a tale which has grown in the telling.
I found sharing the experience with this young lady to be wonderful on so many different levels - what a beautiful little soul she is. I hope she never loses that sense of wonder, and the world offers her all the sounds that it has.
So grateful to witness this 😁🥰😯
me m8
This performance is a masterpiece.
I love ny heavy and thrash metal,Beethoven etc ...but this has me in tears now.... I have no words to describe how this touched my soul....❤
I love that you're reacting to this!
Paul McCartney said "It was the first evening any of us had ever heard a record called A Whiter Shade of Pale with words about feeling seasick. The lyrics were all very strange and poetic and the theme was a famous Bach theme but we didn't know that. We just thought, God, what an incredible record! It was sort of a marker record. It was a benchmark. And we were all trying to guess who it was. So we had to go to the booth and ask, 'What was that one you just played?' and he said, 'Oh yes, Whiter Shade of Pale by Procol Harum. 'Procol what? Is it Latin or something?' And there were rumours around about what that meant. So all the mystery of the evening".
When the choir swells up to support Garrys voice, brings tears.
This was the first thing I taught myself to play on the organ when I was 10.
It's lived in my heart ever since. A simple piece to learn but the notes are so well chosen and effective, a bit like a Gilmore guitar solo.
🖖🏽❤🇬🇧
I started working in Ghana, West Africa in 1996. On about the second week I was there, we were driving along the coastal highway late at night. Not another soul or car could be seen. There were no streetlights, and there were no buildings along the stretch we were driving. The sea was on our right, the relentless incoming march of waves could be seen. We were along in the universe. Suddenly, this song comes on the radio. The organ notes first.
I remember the sky--the Milky Way strung across it, and the burning light of unfamiliar constellations as that voice you love you so much sang us across the earth. It was unbelievably sublime
A classic late 1960's tune. Well known and loved. He sounded as good here as he did back then when it originally came out in 67. RIP to the masters.
The world was blessed with Gary's magical voice for for over five precious decades. His passing only makes me treasure him more. R.I.P. Gary Brooker. Thank you for the music.
Whoever did the arrangement for the orchestra and choir was certainly gifted. It's bold and subtle at the same time and evokes emotion even before Gary Brooker takes over.
While this is a Procol Harum song, the only original member of that band here is Brooker. I agree with you, Aileen, his vocals are gorgeous and he touches our emotions so deeply.
Procol Harum began life in the early 60's as a UK Rock and R&B band called The Paramounts. They were hugely popular but never really got that elusive chart hit. It wasn't until they reformed as Procol Harum and focused the music more on storytelling Folk and dabbled in Psychedelic music that they made their name, though their Rock and R&B roots weren't left behind. They managed a number of hits but none of them matched the massive popularity of Whiter Shade. The band's lineup also fluctuated, with guitarist Robin Trower finding some success as a solo act.
Gary did it, a few years after the original version came out.
Procol Harum is Latin and it means “far beyond these things.” Amazing performance!
I had the distinct honor to accompany Proco Herum when I was concert pianist for the Kansa City Philharmonic Orchestra, twice and the Star Light Theater and twice at the Lyric Opera house. The Hammond B-3 Electric organ just adds that extra haunting sound to the song. Gary and I became friends through our collaborations. Gary didn't play piano back in those days as he does here. I miss my friend, when he passed the musical world grew just a bit less bright. Gary's passing left a void that will never be filled. Rest in Peace my friend until we meet again. In the meantime, entertain the Lord and heavenly host, I'm sure they love it as much as we mere mortals did.
Powerful rich majestic pipes. RIP GARY BROOKER.
Such a beautiful song. I'm a 90s kid but because of my dad I learned to love classic rock from the 60s and 70s. It was such a special time for music. I've always loved this song but I've never seen this amazing performance!
That voice as good as it ever was.
It' better in this than the original, imo.
It's amazing how deeply you seem to feel the music, i'm a 1981 baby, so i lived through one of the best music decades, so i love watching your throwback reactions,
I'm 55 and this song still makes me cry and i have no idea why 😊
I know how you feel .its a beautiful song .I always have a tear when I hear it .I dont know why too
Same! Just a powerful song. ❤
Ditto. It's because it's probably the greatest live performance ever. Sorry, Freddie Mercury. Yours is number two.
@@robinnnnnnnnnnnn yeah Freddie mercury and queen are one of the greatest bands of all time .Freddie god bless him is theeee best singer live .live aid at Wembley. The queen performance is outstanding. RIP Freddie
I believe the song is so sad is because on an unconcious level you know the song is about a woman who died from an overdose after tripping the light fantastic thereby she turned a whiter shade of pale.
I don’t know what’s more impressive, that:
a) he could sing like this as a young man, or
b) he could sing this as an old man.
Both!!!😂
This song makes me cry❤
This was ranked the best song of 1967 and has often been near the top of the best of all rock songs. Procol Harum was my favorite band as a teenager back in the 60s. Gary Booker's voice and writing were spectacular. The combination of Gary's piano and Matthew Fisher's organ was one of the most unique sounds in rock. Procol Harum was a vanguard of progressive music, along with King Crimson, Emerson, Lake and Palmer, and Yes. Their songs always sounded heavenly. They were the Epica and Nightwish of their generation. Other songs to listen to... Homburg, A Salty Dog and In Held Twas In I.
60's bands, like Procol Harum, have held up their relevance and brilliance for 70 years.
So much so, that it commands the respect of Symphonic artists.
One of the most iconic songs from the late 60s. It's actually done pretty close to the original here and his voice hasn't really changed across the years. RIP Gary Brooker
Summer 1967. This was one of my favorite songs.
I was 3, but it became one of my all time favorites.
Procol Harum is the name of a rock group. This song was a hit from 1967. Lead singer and co-writer, Gary Booker, still sounds good. The original hit didn't have the orchestra, however.
Brooker
... and Harum. Harem is something else altogether.
I wonder how they chose that name.
@@Wellch Brocol Harum was the name of the cat. I am not sure, but I think that the cat was owned by one member of the band. Procol Harum is Latin and it means "beyond things". The song is a masterpiece and also the name of the cat is lovely and exceptional like the song itself.
Easy to tell you really enjoyed this, Aileen. Imagine how it was for us hearing it for the first in 1967 when the Beatles were still together. This song and the overall feel was a stand out.
Amazingly Gary Brooker's voice has got even better.
This was my fathers favorite song, still tear up everytime I hear it. Thanks for this reaction. Gary Brooker has one of the greatest voices ever
The original recording was done with the Hammond B-3 organ that the guy played after the piano verse. I liked it since it came out (I was only 7 at the time but had older brothers and sisters who listened to rock and pop music). The haunting melody combined with the B-3 sound was always wonderful but when they added the Danish Orchestra and the Danish National Choir for this performance, it took it to another level. Thanks for the reaction.
The B-3 has a distinct sound especially with a Lesley. I'm 72 and loosing some hearing ability but can pick out a B-3 fairly easily. Nothing like it.
@@CopyKatnj I couldn't agree more. That was a large part of why the original track was so beautiful.
Actually, the ORIGINAL recording was done WITHOUT the organ. The song had been recorded and the band was ready to promote it before they hired Matthew Fisher. When Mr. Fisher was hired, he added the Hammond organ part that did so much to make the song an icon. That was back in May 1967. What's also interesting is that Mr. Fisher waited 38 years, until 2005, before instituting a lawsuit to claim his percentage of credit relating to his contribution to the song. He ultimately prevailed and was awarded a 40% "share" of the writing credit, entitling him to future royalties.
RIP Gary Brooker. His voice somehow got even better as he got older. This version is just perfect.
This one came out when I was 5 yrs., and radio stations played it often enough throughout my childhood years for me to always remember it and those times. I always love hearing this one.
I’m so glad you’re reacting to this 😀😀🤟 Rock On, so glad you ‘felt it’. Tunes like this give me major goosebumps, especially when you mix an orchestra into what’s supposed to classic rock is remade with such emotion. It really hits me in the hearts and just turn up the volume.
He was such a great talent.
Best way to start a lazy (work) Sunday is a new Aileen video 🖤
Gary Brooker's voice never ceased to amaze me! His rasp, so unforced, just soothes your ears. You will want to enjoy "Conquistador" from the same concert. We always had this on our "Driving on the highway" playlist. A little more dramatic than this beautiful ballad. Enjoy, Bella!
Aileen this guy's name is Gary Brooker. Sadly we lost him recently but some of us have enjoyed his vocal and keyboard talents since the sixties. This is the latest reincarnation of the band Procol Harum. Hardly any, if any of the original band are here. I'm not sure now, but this was an absolutely massive hit in the sixties. No-one had heard anything like this before or since and it has maintained its popularity ever since because of its originality, and it still sounds as fresh today as ever. I urge you to delve into the back catalogue Aileen. There are some amazing classic sounds there. RIP Gary Brooker.
Someone who GETS IT.
Feeling music in this manner...Blessing or curse?
I feel for the people who do not immediately react as you have.
Is there any other option?
Genius piece, God- approved performance.
The audience are beyond blessed.
just the greatest soft rock song of all time. what an amazing performance.
One of the greatest songs of all time, it has been around for 57 years and will live forever
I love this song, I wasn't even born yet when this was released. I can't remember what movie or TV show played this, when I first heard it, but I have loved it ever since. Good selection!
If you ever watch the movie The Commitments (and you should! - it's about a group of dirt-poor, very white Irish kids in Dublin in the 90s who become a 60's-style soul group, and it's got some fantastic musical performances), there's a part of the movie where they visit their local church to arrange to use a room for a performance, and their piano player sits down at the church organ and plays this song. There was also an episode of House, MD where Wilson buys House an organ, and House immediately plays Whiter Shade Of Pale. This song was an instant classic and has become a touchstone for generations of people, and it's still magical every time you hear it.
I'm 74 years old and grew up with some of the best music ever, and I'm very grateful for this. So glad you can experience it.
Every time I see this performance I tear up. This song and this concert made it more of a masterpiece.
Some of the refrain is Bach. Yes, that Bach.
Loved your reaction and comments.
As we say in Texas; y'all be safe. All y'all.
The music is adapted from classical composer J.S.Bach. the band were classically trained but played in a rock band and kept adding 'twiddly bits' at the requests from the audience. This is considered to be the birth of Prog Rock.
Most of the musicians from this era were classically trained.
You can really tell the difference.
Guys like Richie Blackmore often had multiple instrument competencies.
Holy cr*p the British REALLY punched above their weight musically. Decade after decade. I always thought this band was US but not so. STUNNING song and stunning live vocals.
I’m 55. My mom was pregnant with me in 1967 when this song came out. Beautiful song I’ve heard my literal entire life. Magical!
One of my favorite songs of all time and such a beautiful version!
I love this song for so many years! But I have never cried while listening to this wonderful tune - so it's a "first time" for me as well. Thank you, Aileen!
Although im old now, i dont regret growing up in the 80s. Everyday the radio played the best from the 60s 70s and 80s. It was a golden age for music.
This performance is a real gem. I never get tired of watching this!
Thank you for a great reaction. All those people comming together to create this beautiful experience. Makes life worth living.
Wonderful! Thank you, Aileen, for sharing this classic redo of a classic rock song. It's been so many years since we first heard this one, and it just keeps on giving. 😊
Great video choice! This concert was in Denmark in 2006 but the original came out in England in 1967. The Box Tops do a great version too.
I saw them perform this live in the day. Fantastic then. Fantastic now. Keep playing this type and period of music. Real singing and wonderful music.
The greatest pop song ever written and performed. This music when first heard in the late 60's really did have the power to change lives and was so very influential in mine ... Astoundingly beautiful music!
The first time I heard this song I was at the lake with my parents and family. It was coming out of the speakers at the concession stand. My Dad came looking for me. His voice as strong as the first time I heard this. There is so much to learn from all these songs the 60's, 70's, 80's. So much history, so many stories
Procol Harum - "A Whiter Shade of Pale" Absolutely beautiful !!! BUT This version with orchestra and choir covers up what made it memorable and iconic. The haunting sound of the organ,. The studio version is what I hear in my head and is the version I will always want to hear.
One of the most award-winning and best-selling and most-covered songs in rock music history. This song is musically based on a famous tune by Johann Sebastian Bach, the Air from his Orchestral Suite No. 3 2. Air, BWV 1068, (AKA the "Air on the G string")
Elsewhere here on UA-cam is an interview with Gary Brooker where he says "If you trace the chordal element, it does a bar or two of Bach's 'Air on a G String' before it veers off. That spark was all it took. I wasn't consciously combining rock with classical, it's just that Bach's music was in me."
Here on UA-cam are several videos that discuss the many modern popular music hits that were inspired by or based on (or ripped-off) J.S.Bach and other "classical" composers.
I love this song, and loved seeing you watch it
❤ from Northeast England ❤️
You got whisked away to a world that I grew up with! This and a few others are anthems for that time and go right to my heart and soul! I'm so happy to see you react to this!
Thank you❤
This is such a beautiful song. Gary Brooker had the most awesome voice. Sadly, a couple of years ago he passed away. RIP Gary. Love your reaction!
I was fortunate to see Procol Harum and Jethro Tull together in 92 or 93. Yeah they were past their primes but they both put on terrific shows!
I wont cite specifics, but since my dad passed in november i been unable to listen to this song. Saw this reccommended and decided to try...and now crying floods of tears on the bus. But this is absolutley amazing...
I’m in my 60’s also . First time hearing this was in my teens. Seeing your honest reaction was so cool! Your passion and expressions show your true feelings. Plus you’re extremely beautiful and intelligent!
I adore this performance and I am so glad you found it with your passionate ears! Thank you Aileen.
I love your commentary! You really appreciate the majesty of Gary Brooker's voice (RIP).
Aileen, I was really pleased to see that you reacted to this song because it is such a beautiful song and performance!
Thanks for another great review Aileen. Great song. Wonderful performance! Keep up the great work.
Such a rich and profoundly touching reaction to this beautiful song, Aileen. ❤
This was the debut single for the band pack in 1967, and it immediately took the world by storm, soaring to #1 everywhere. That was no small feat when you were running up against groups like The Beatles, The Stones, etc.
Aileen you are wonderful in every sense.
So much genuine love for music and you are clearly like me moved by music when you like it .
that was the Most sincerely appreciative reaction i have ever ever watched. it's very moving for sure! thanks for sharing this !!
In 1967, Gary Brooker and Keith Reid wrote this timeless masterpiece. It stayed at number 1 in the UK charts for 6 weeks. This will be played in a hundred years and it will still be enjoyed and appreciated by everyone who listens to it. We are blessed to be here for this. RIP Gary and Keith and thank you for this wonderful song.
I remember this song from the late sixties, always loved when it came on the radio. There's 2 "promotional" videos here on UA-cam that you should also check out just to see the difference a few decades makes in a classic rock song. Oh, the original starts out with the organ solo that's a couple of minutes in on this version.
The gent at the piano is the late Gary Brooker, the drummer, keyboard player, bass, and electric guitar are Procul Harum. Gary is and original member not sure on the others.
Soon to be 40 (one month), lost my father to cancer 12 years ago. This song was one of his favourites so my cousin sang this during his funeral so this song has a special meaning for me.
I was lucky to see them live in Mexico City in 1969. The joy and happiness you expressed in your reactions was so beautiful.Thank you for this incredible gift
I love this song and have done so since it came out. The DSO bring a fantastic arrangement to life. The only thing is that one can hear the ghost of JSB in the background. Truly one of the greatest influences in western music
Oh boy!! I’ve been waiting for you to watch this video!!
I really apprciate you listening to these songs it reminds me of so many that I have forgotten over the years. Thank you very much. Wishing you the best
Loved the reaction. 😊
RIP Gary
Wow, only 7 min into the video but feel compelled. I've never heard this before. What an amazing voice, and emotion pouring through.
You're the angel that makes all your reaction videos MAGICAL Love !! 🙏🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🌹🙋🙋🙋❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️😎😎🆒🆒✅🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
Your reaction was SO special. Thank you. I adore you. You are such a beautiful soul.
I think your expressions say it all. Absolute perfection.
I have never heard this version. I have loved this song since I first heard it back in the eighties. A wonderful reaction. :)
Our childhood was filled with great music. I just watched your reaction to Moody Blues….well, this played constantly right along with it and so many others!
I love how excited and thrilled you get by our "old buggers" music.
Gary Booker, the singer, the organist, bass guitar and lead guitar are the band Procol Harum. This is a mega hit they had decades ago. This is them performing it surrounded by a full orchestra - it is quite awesome!! Thanks!
That was an Amazing performance ❤
The 60’s and early 70’s had some god like music, that to this day still stands its ground some 60 years later.