Keith Reid, the British lyricist and co-founder of the legendary rock band Procol Harum, passed away on March 28, 2023, at the age of 76. Reid’s contributions to the world of music were significant, but he will always be remembered for his role in writing one of the most iconic songs of all time, “A Whiter Shade of Pale.”
Born in London in 1946, Keith Reid was a lover of music and literature from a young age. He met pianist Gary Brooker in 1962, and the two quickly hit it off. They formed Procol Harum in 1967, and with Reid writing the lyrics and Brooker composing the music, the band quickly gained a devoted following.
“A Whiter Shade of Pale” was released in 1967, and it became an instant hit, reaching number one in the UK and number five in the US. The song’s haunting melody and cryptic lyrics captivated listeners around the world, and it has since become one of the most covered and beloved songs in history.
The song’s lyrics are often interpreted as a surrealistic exploration of love, loss, and memory. Reid has said that he was inspired by the works of authors such as Franz Kafka and Jorge Luis Borges, and that he wanted to create a song that was open to multiple interpretations.
In addition to “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” Reid wrote many other classic Procol Harum songs, including “Homburg,” “Conquistador,” and “A Salty Dog.” He was known for his poetic and often enigmatic lyrics, which added a layer of depth and complexity to the band’s music.
Reid left Procol Harum in 1977, but he continued to write and collaborate with musicians throughout his life. He worked with artists such as Roger Daltrey, the Alan Parsons Project, and Gary Brooker on various projects over the years.
In addition to his musical contributions, Reid was also a talented writer and poet. He published several books of poetry, including “The Common Thread,” which was released in 2018.
Keith Reid’s impact on the world of music cannot be overstated. His words and melodies have inspired generations of musicians and fans, and his contributions to Procol Harum helped to shape the sound of progressive rock. Though he may be gone, his music and poetry will live on forever.
