A Whiter Shade of Pale

Procol Harum’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale” is a 1967 rock ballad famed for its haunting Hammond organ intro and poetic lyrics. Drawing from Bach’s “Air on the G String,” its classical-inspired melody and melancholy vocals helped it top the UK charts for weeks. The song became a cultural touchstone of the late 60s, earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame and Rolling Stone’s top 100. Fun fact: it was originally intended as a B-side, but quickly became the band’s signature hit instead.