The Hollies Perform A Whiter Shade Of Pale (1978)

About the song

“A Whiter Shade of Pale” is one of those timeless songs that continue to captivate audiences with its evocative lyrics and unforgettable melody. While the song is famously known as a hit for Procol Harum, The Hollies brought their own distinctive flair to this classic track in their 1978 rendition.

Originally released by Procol Harum in 1967, “A Whiter Shade of Pale” became an instant sensation, topping charts worldwide and cementing its place as one of the defining songs of the late 1960s. The song is renowned for its lush orchestration and poignant, almost surreal lyrics, which evoke a sense of timeless romance and melancholy.

The Hollies’ version, released as part of their 1978 album “The Hollies’ Greatest Hits”, offered a fresh take on the song while staying true to its original charm. Although it did not match the commercial success of the Procol Harum version, The Hollies’ cover managed to capture the essence of the song and infusing it with their own signature harmonies and pop sensibilities.

Known for their tight vocal harmonies and melodious pop-rock sound, The Hollies brought a unique energy to “A Whiter Shade of Pale.” Their version is distinguished by its polished production and the band’s characteristic sound, which offered a different texture compared to the original. This reinterpretation highlighted The Hollies’ versatility and their knack for reimagining well-known songs.

The Hollies’ “A Whiter Shade of Pale” stands as a noteworthy entry in the band’s extensive discography. It reflects their ability to honor musical traditions while adding their own distinctive touch. Despite the song’s origins as a Procol Harum hit, The Hollies’ version remains a cherished part of their musical legacy and a testament to their enduring appeal in the world of pop and rock music.

Video

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

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

If music be the food of love
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

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