I think Gary's voice actually sounded better as he got on in years. He maintained his tone and range all the way through his career, but his voice got even an even more gritty texture to it as he got older.

@donnabertolotti8954

5 ай бұрын

Agreed!

@bella-xp7qd

5 ай бұрын

I agree, his voice sounded richer here. He was 62/63 years old.

John Lennon and I have at least one thing in common . When this song came out we both thought it was the most beautiful we had ever heard .

We lost one of the great ones when he passed away...and such a gentleman as well.

This tune was first performed in 1967. Every HS Prom, people slow danced to this song by Procol Harum. 50 years later, it's still sounding even BETTER, than the original radio version. Truly an amazing song and performance by this band.

Tomorrow (February 19, 2024) is the 2nd anniversary of singer Gary Brooker's death. This was their most successful song commercially, but they have a great body of work. One of my favorite bands back in the '70s. Saw them live once back then. RIP Gary!

@L33Reacts

5 ай бұрын

Wow .. I had no idea his anniversary was tomorrow.. guess it was just the universe bringing me to do this video today of all days. Glad I did it. Absolutely breathtaking at points.

@lindazee

5 ай бұрын

It still breaks my heart that he is gone, but this performance, along with the original studio version, are amazing works of art that keep his spirit alive. ♥️

An enduring song from my childhood, this version is majestic.

@ronniefarnsworth6465

5 ай бұрын

Yes indeed it brings you back 👍🎶

Greatest song of 1960s.

I believe they also did "Conquistador" at this concert!

RIP Gary & thank you. Grateful that we got to see you perform this with Ringo Starr's All Star Band in Clearwater, Fl. in 97. Tickets were only $25.00, Jim

Splendid choice. This live version from Denmark is one of the penultimate things of KZread. The way he sings this at the end of a career bookmarks with the original. One of pops most iconic. And so it was that later.....

RIP GB🌹

That is the best version of this song live you will ever see.

Now is the time your children start forming memories that they'll have forever.

It’s amazing that one song can sound so beautiful with virtually every instrument thrown at it………. So, so beautiful All that’s missing is an elephant and kitchen sink. Thank you for your reaction

If we join Mr. Peabody and his boy Sherman in the way back machine we find the original recording did not include an orchestra. But man our music was great! You should hear "Conquistador."

The great Gary Brooker so sad we lost him Feb 19th, 2022' from cancer. 😢 This song was alway a favorite of mine since I first heard it as a kid around 1969' and has always been played on Classic Rock radio around the country ever since then an I turn it up loving the Vibe, Voice and that Hammond bringing me back to a much better time ! 👍🎶🎤🎹🥁🎸🎹🎼✌

For those of us who heard the original studio version,there is no beating it for nostalgia's sake. I have said that it perfectly captures the vibe of the late sixties, having been released in 1967. A song that brings me back to yhat time like no other.

@johnnyfrederick01

5 ай бұрын

I’m a big believer in listening to the original version first to get the authentic reaction of what we kids heard melting our brains or opening up our souls late at night with the transistor radio under our pillow…. And THEN go to other/live versions. But that’s just me….

@thescrewfly

5 ай бұрын

Also this is not that Procol Harum, it's Gary Brooker and a band (and an orchestra and a sodding choir).

@allypad64

3 ай бұрын

@@thescrewflystill the original singer of the song which was a totally fantastic performance!!

Rest in Peace Gary Brooker

The orchestra makes this sound so majestic.

Pure, Raw Talent LIVE! No fancy microphones to hide some singer's inability to stay in pitch, no over-produced sweetened sound to make it seem better than it is, musicians from different genres actually playing together in the same place with the ability to stay in tune & beat. To top it all off they used an old school Hammond B3 to get the original analog sound instead of a modern digital keyboard. Fantastic.👍👌👏

One of the most beautiful songs to created along with "And You and I," "Bridge Over Troubled Water," and "Turn of The Century. " When I heard this song in the 60's on the radio .... I cried......I didn't know why.....later on ..... I knew it was the beauty of the song. Absolutely Beautiful song!!!

@36karpatoruski

5 ай бұрын

Don’t forget Nights In White Satin! Belongs with that excellent group!

Perfection , place, musicians, crowd, moment, and song, a direct arrow to the soul

I love the sense of melancholy in this song! Just gorgeous!

This was recorded before guitarist Robin Trower became a member of the band, though he and pianist/vocalist Gary Brooker had been in a band together before this. So, Trower was not on Procul Harum's biggest hit, and many people only knew the band from this song. Trower added a rockier dimension to the band - see their 1970 album "Home" with songs like "Whiskey Train", and the epic "Whaling Stories". Eventually, Trower felt too confined, basically being a member of Brooker's band, and left to pursue a solo career. At 78 years old, he is still playing well, and is touring with a new album.

@CharCanuck14

5 ай бұрын

Yes, I hope that Lee will react to "Whiskey Train".........a great song that not only showcases Robin Trower, but is cowbell heaven!

@bookhouseboy280

5 ай бұрын

"Whaling Stories" is even more epic with orchestra. Masterpiece.

@-R.Gray-

5 ай бұрын

@@bookhouseboy280 I was suggesting songs that were good examples of Robin Trower's contribution to the group, which he didn't see here, and the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra performance happened after he left.

@michaelmorgenbesser7026

4 ай бұрын

Sorry, but Robin Trower was the guitarist for the band from their 1st album through Broken Barricades, their 4th or 5th album.

@michaelmorgenbesser7026

4 ай бұрын

Oops, sorry again. Misunderstood what you were saying. You're correct.

This melody is based on Air On A G String a piece by Bach. World wide smash this was in the summer of love 67. Brilliant

Create those memories with your children. Memories are what matter, young man. Remember, time goes by quickly. Stay strong!

This is a true musical masterpiece. It has always been one of my favorites. Gary's voice here was fantastic.

Could well be the best version of one of the best songs of all times. Always makes me tear up when I hear this.

I’ve always considered the original version to be in the top 10 all time greatest rock song.

I think by this point Gary Brooker was the only original member left in the band. As far other things to check out "Conquistador" from the band's "Live with the Edmonton Symphony" album . Conquistador is Procol's other hit and a altogether more rocking song showing off the versatility in this band.

@ripvanwinkle2002

5 ай бұрын

i prefer it to this one actually ( between the two big commercial successes)

@MsAppassionata

4 ай бұрын

Love that entire album!

@Grammichal

Ай бұрын

This concert in Denmark also included Conquistador.

One of the most trippy "WTF" !?!?!?!song's ever in a jukebox lyric rise.

As a drummer, you'll really dig older clips of the band. Procol Harum's longtime drummer, BJ Wilson, was actuallly Jimmy Page's first choice for the gig with Led Zeppelin and was nicknamed "The Octopus in the Bathtub" on account of his playing style and the way he sat so low behind his kit. Definitely worth checking out.

In case no-one else has answered your question, the line-up for this concert was Gary Brooker, Geoff Whitehorn guitar, Dave Pegg bass, Mark Brzezicki drums and Josh Phillips organ. Matthew Fisher had left by this time. He had been the only other original member left in the reformed version of the band and was also co-composer of the song.

@fordp69

5 ай бұрын

I didn't know Dave Pegg was playing bass here, they don't show him much. I much enjoyed his work with Fairport Convention and Jethro Tull.

@maritamcnichol8849

5 ай бұрын

Robin Trower also played for Procol Harum before he went solo

@thescrewfly

5 ай бұрын

@@maritamcnichol8849 I've heard some his solo work but I really know him from his work with Procol Harum.

A spectacular rabbit hole to go down would be that of this bands guitarist - Robin Trower - who has arguably the greatest guitar discography in history. Bridge of Sighs is #1 guitar rock LP ever.

This song is just magnificent. Just beautiful.

The most played song on British radio.

@Grammichal

Ай бұрын

One of only 43 singles selling 10 million copies!

Slow dancing to this song in the high school gym it really did feel like the organ was going to blow the ceiling away.

This song always has a special place in my heart as it was number 1 in the U.K. charts the week that i was born.

Great song, Procul Harum were ahead of their time, need to listen to the original recording with the Hammond C3 Organ sound. He was a Poet and a Composer: Lyrics: 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 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 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 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 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 If music be the food of love [see note, left, about this verse + its opening] 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 .

When it first came out, the organ started the song. The addition of the full orchestra and choir improved a song that was already perfect. Mind blowing performance.

A beautiful love song as one would ever hear. Their biggest hit. But try Salty Dog also. Been listening to you since 9:30 this Sunday morning. Mostly to the Yes tunes. Ha, a great way to start the day. Keep it going Lee. 😊

@L33Reacts

5 ай бұрын

Great to hear you enjoying the videos my friend. I actually did A Salty Dog last month! It was so good.

I am so impressed that at over 60 years old Gary could still sing at this level. Many lead vocalists...Ian Anderson (one of my all time favorites) being an unfortunate example...gradually stress their vocal cords so that as they age their range compresses. They have to then rely on vocal "charisma" and adjusting the types of songs they attempt.

The best most insightful reaction I have heard from a non european ❤❤❤

I just have to say that I just watched this myself. I was mesmerized!! He still had an amazing voice at that age. It’s sad that he is no longer with us :(. This song is iconic.

@Grammichal

Ай бұрын

I like his seasoned voice better. I graduated from high school in 1969.✌🏽

Procol Harum and the Moody Blues were not afraid to use an orchestra in their songs.

Hope you listen to the studio version someday on your own time. It's just as awesome.

🇨🇦 Yes, Gary who wrote and sang the original in 1967 ! The Danish National Symphony Orchestra consists of over 100 musicians and over 70 Choir members, and they like to host outdoor summer concerts with special guests, like Procol Harum, which consists of a drummer, an organist, 2 guitarists and Gary on piano ! 🇨🇦

@Grammichal

Ай бұрын

I understand the Edmonton Symphony accompanied him as well. 🇺🇸🇨🇦

I was 12 years old when this song came out in 1967. Even tho I was young in years, I know I was an old soul. That song touched me deeply at 12 yrs old. At 68 yrs old now, I still feel in to my core & it brings tears every time. Beautiful!

@user-uh3nn9sm1j

4 ай бұрын

I'm right there with you!

Conquistador, another great tune don’t sleep on it

This is a great rendition of a great song! His voice is powerful!

This was like my national anthem when I was a teenager. I've seen this great rendition a dozen times. Glad you were able to experience it. A little tidbit: the organist from the original group who came up with that melody was able to successfully sue for co-authorship rights for the song. That was rare. Usually those who "own" a song come up with the lyrics and/or the chords/melody that go with the lyrics, not a completely different melody. But in this case , it's integral.

This reminds me of all the good singers we had, not many exist now, that dont need some sort of help.

Gary …. I’m speechless 😮

Original lineup (1967) Gary Brooker - vocals, piano Robin Trower - guitar Matthew Fisher - organ Dave Knights - bass B. J. Wilson - drums Ray Royer - guitar Keith Reid - lyrics

Hi enjoying your reactions. I was lucky enough to see Procol Harum about 1975 perform the original of this in Norwich UK. Brilliant night. Gary's voice just got better and better over the years and along with him the band, all talented musicians, give a wonderful performance.

Gorgeous setting..Renaissance feel.. great song

The only original member was Gary Brooker. The song came our in 1967 and the original is well worth listening to also. Gary also co-wrote.

@L33REACTS, The studio version really gives you a feel of the late 60s. John Lennon was obsessed with this song when it came out. Robin Trower, a guitarist was a member of this band for awhile before starting his own power trio in the 70s. He was criticized for ripping off Hendrix. A great band.

I can remember playing this at high school dance, and that was a long time ago.

I believe this was the last song of their regular set but they played a couple of further encore songs one of which was: "Conquistador". You should react to this concert's version of that song as well. (Same amazing skill at band/orchestral arrangement, but a totally different style of song.)

You might also enjoy "Salty Dog" from the same concert. Gary Brooker was a treasure. He also played on All Things Must Pass by George Harrison.

I prefer the black and white video when they were young. Gary was a really handsome guy.

perfection

I always see that beautiful smile like wow

Procol Harum means, beyond these things, and they certainly are. .

Magical

Heard him do this live with Ringo and the All Starr Band: with Ringo, Peter Frampton, Jack Bruce, Simon Kirke and Mark Rivera. Hard to beat that supergroup.

You know, I was listening this classic with you and throughout the song all of a sudden thought, this song reminds me Bach somehow and thought it has some Ray Charles interpretation in the way he perfoms too. And I remembered once, Paul McCartney said he got inspired by R. Charles to create The Long and Winding Road, which is a powerful and beautiful song too, so I went directly to google and typed. 'Paul McCartney on Whiter Shade of Pale' . And I've just discovered now. The night He met Linda his wife for so many years since Beatles era, they were hanging out in a Pub in London, they crushed each other so Paul insisted her to continue the night in another club where it happened Protocol Harum was playing that night. None of them knew the band, however they got totally blown away by Whiter Shade of Pale, and after that night it became the song of them both. Isn't it a great story? Somehow I thought this song has had to make an impact on Macca cause the melody is just...and the way he sing it....a masterpiece.

Family always comes first friend

A Masterpiece

Best version of the song. Cool you knew about the Hammond so many don't. Really good reaction. There are some music that transports you to other worlds and this is one of them.

Pure genius.....

If i remember correctly "A Whiter Shade of Pale" is based on a Classical piece of music called "Sleeper's Awake!" (I can't remember the title on German) Another very good song by Procol Harum is "Conquistador " from their "LIVE With the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra " album.

☮️💙💙💙🔥🔥😎rest Gary!

Check out Procol Harum and a 30 year younger Gary Brooker, RIP, performing this same song. If you notice the video you reacted to has a Canterbury Tales medieval setting to it. The following video shows the very early elements of Goth subculture: “Procol Harum - a white shade of pale, at Gala du Midem 1968”

A perfect powerhouse song that can easily meld an orchestra into it. You are a big Who fan - they have brought out a backing orchestra into their concerts the last few years. Check out a live version.

Yes please do more from Procol Harum as i believe their the best band of all time. Grand Hotel or A Salty Dog would be two to consider but they have so many great songs and different styles that theres something for everyone. Josh Phillips was on the organ instead of the great Matthew Fisher by this time. You seemed to genuinely appreciate this performance (as everyone should) so hopefully we can introduce you and your viewers to more of their greatness.

Added props for the Frazetta posters in the background.

@L33Reacts

5 ай бұрын

Appreciate it! A Patron sent them in! They're beautiful

@rpmfla

5 ай бұрын

A version of that top one was actually used as an album cover for the band Molly Hatchet. @@L33Reacts

I've always enjoyed Procol Harum's material. This song is, of course, one of their most memorable tunes and is a 60s classic. The melody for this song is loosely based on Air in G, by Sebastian Bach and is one of my all-time favorite classical pieces. If you want to explore more Procol Harum, I wholeheartedly recommend their LP called A Salty Dog. The album is packed with great tunes and I enjoy virtually every one of them. It's one of their best.

Rip Gary😞

Lee, do yourself a favor and check out Conquistador from this same concert. Conquistador was the encore song.

Should check out the 1967 studio hit version and compare his voice-phenomenal. In the promo video they walk around a gothic church which enhances the mood of the song.

Great song , great gig , great reaction . Cheers mate 🤟

Great reaction Lee! As much as I love the original, this version is absolutely incredible! Gary's voice is spot on (RIP), the addition of the orchestra gives an additional emotional punch this song deserves! And the setting is just perfect. Love it. When the time comes - expose your kiddos to live music! My wife and I have taken our kids to a bunch of concerts, and it's really been a nice way to spend time together, plus it's also given them a great appreciation for music! Cheers!

Epic.

What a magnificent song and production. A great “60’s” prog band. So inventive. They did a tour with a full orchestra and a live album. 1970 or so. Conquistador is a great track. Try it. Everything they’re done was great.

@CharCanuck14

5 ай бұрын

"Conquistador" with the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra is the best version IMO.

Well now you have to get into Robin Trower because he was the guitarist from this band. He knew Jimi Hendrix and was part of that scene in Great Britain in 67. He is one of the few that sound like Hendrix. Saw him in 76 at Tampa Stadium with Jethro Tull. Edgar and Johnny Winter were suppose to perform also but Johnny got drunk and couldn't do the gig. Trowers guitar just rang out over that stadium. Same stadium that Zeppelin broke Beatles attendance record.

This is epic and cool that they took a rock song from the late 60’s and added a orchestra and choir to this performance

Incredible voice. Procol Harum released an album that was recorded with the Edmonton symphony orchestra in 1971. Edmonton is where I’m from and where I currently live. They had a hit song from that album called conquistador. Really enjoying your reactions!

@ddiamondr1

5 ай бұрын

It’ll get better bud and your kids will have beautiful memories of their childhood with their dad.

Right on Lee! I don’t know why but this song gets me emotional also. Great critique my friend ✌️❤️🎶

I love this...

If you want another live performance with an orchestra try Arthur Lee and Love performing You Set the Scene at Glastonbury. Love was the great LA band before The Doors. They actually helped The Doors get signed to Electra Records. They were also one of the first interracial rock bands in a time of severe segregation and racism. Forever Changes is their best known album and it is great. See ya Lee!

The chord progression and organ lead is based on a JS Bach air.

I have been a huge Procol Harum fan since this was released when I was ten. This entire concert is incredible. I also liked "A Salty Dog". Check it out.

I've been to more than 30 Procol Harum concerts in Europe and the States, scored "AWSoP" every time, including several versions with a symphony orchestra, but this recording from Denmark (2006) is simply a masterpiece.

J S Bach meets pop/rock meets Gary Brooker and what do you get? A giant hit!

Wow I love this song but haven’t listened to it in ages so thank you for your reaction! Brings back memories. Also……those two posters on the left of the screen remind me of an artist named Boris Vallejo. If you don’t know him, I think you might like his work.

Love your choices of music! Keep them coming!✌️

This was so awesome! Love your reaction! ♥

I saw them live.