Genuine 1st pressing
Procol Harum's "A Whiter Shade of Pale" 7" Genuine 1st pressing Single is a coveted collector's item. Released in the 1967's cultural zenith, this vinyl exemplifies the band's breakthrough sound. Its inaugural edition captures the essence of a musical era, featuring the hauntingly poetic lyrics and iconic organ melody that define Procol Harum's indelible mark on the 60s music scene.
In the heart of the psychedelic summer of 1967, Procol Harum unleashed their debut single, "A Whiter Shade of Pale." It was a song that would go on to conquer the charts and become a timeless classic of both the era and rock music as a whole. With its haunting organ melody, soulful vocals, and cryptic lyrics, the song captured the zeitgeist of the times, establishing itself as an enduring cultural landmark.
The song draws heavy inspiration from the melodies of Johann Sebastian Bach. Matthew Fisher's now-legendary organ intro weaves a tapestry of baroque elegance, setting the stage for Gary Brooker's evocative vocals. Brooker's voice, full of soulful longing, paints a picture of a surreal scene – a man and a woman, perhaps at a party, perhaps in a world of their own.
"A Whiter Shade of Pale" is renowned for its enigmatic lyrics. Poet and lyricist Keith Reid crafted lines that shimmer with multiple interpretations. Phrases like "we skipped the light fandango" and "the room was humming harder" open doors into a dreamlike world where reality and fantasy blur. The meaning of the "whiter shade of pale" remains an enticing mystery that draws listeners deeper into the song's allure.
The band recorded "A Whiter Shade of Pale" at Olympic Sound Studios in London. The track's stark power came from its relative simplicity - the recording was completed in just a few takes, retaining a sense of raw spontaneity. It was a bold move for a debut single, especially with its unusual structure and ambiguous subject matter.
It proved to be a gamble that paid off. Against all odds, the song exploded in popularity, staying at the top of the UK Singles Chart for an astonishing six weeks. Its transatlantic appeal was undeniable, and it soared up the US charts as well. It has remained a staple of classic rock radio ever since.
Beyond commercial success, "A Whiter Shade of Pale" has achieved iconic status. Its influence extends to countless other songs, its organ melody instantly recognizable. The song's enduring appeal is perhaps due to its perfect balance of accessibility and mystery – a catchy melody and intriguing lyrics that invite endless speculation. It is a testament to the power of music to resonate across generations, remaining a timeless masterpiece over fifty years after its release.
Doro Pesch, known as the Queen of Metal, boldly reimagined Procol Harum's timeless classic, "A Whiter Shade of Pale," for her 1989 debut solo album, "Force Majeure" . While retaining the song's melancholic core, Doro infuses it with her trademark metal energy. She accelerates the tempo, adds driving guitars, and replaces the bluesy organ with a wall of hard rock power. Doro's raspy vocals deliver the enigmatic lyrics with a raw intensity, transforming the song into a powerful anthem. This cover highlights her deep respect for classic rock influences and her ability to make established songs her own, showcasing the impressive range and versatility of her artistry.
Artist/Band: Procol Harum |
Music Genre: Pop Pre-70s, Beat |
| Collector's Information/Trivia This is the original 1st pressing and UK release |
| Tracks side 1: Whiter Shade of Pale |
| Tracks side 2: Lime Street Blues |
| Record Company/Label: Deram |
| Catalog/Release nr: DM-126 |
Vinyl Format: 7" Single |
| Year: 1967 |
| Country of Pressing Made in England |
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Impact records 6886 555 , , France
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