Keith Reid dies: Procol Harum lyricist on ‘A Whiter Shade Of Pale’ and other hits was 76

Keith Reid, who wrote the lyrics to most of Procol Harum’s original songs, died of cancer on March 23, his wife confirmed. No location information was given.

Reid wrote Procol Harum’s biggest hit, 1967’s “A Whiter Shade of Pale,” as well as group classics like “A Salty Dog,” “Conquistador,” “Shine on Brightly” and “Grand Hotel.”

Born on October 19, 1946 in Hertfordshire, England, Reid began collaborating with Procol-Harum keyboardist Gary Brooker in the 1960s. One of their first collaborative efforts, A Whiter Shade of Pale, reached #1 in their native UK, as well as in Australia, Canada and several European countries. It also peaked at number 5 billboard‘s Hot 100 singles chart in the US

Although not an executive member of Procol Harum, Reid was an integral part of the group’s mystique. The sometimes wacky lyrics kept fans guessing about interpretations and sparked debates that kept the band at the forefront of prog rock at the time.

Reid contributed lyrics to Procol Harum until 2017. In addition, Reid’s songs have been recorded by Annie Lennox, Willie Nelson and Heart, among others. He was also one of the four songwriters on You’re The Voice, a worldwide hit by Australian singer John Farnham.

Reid also released an album titled The Common Thread with his lyrics sung by artists such as John Waite and Southside Johnny Lyon.

On the business side, Reid founded a company that provided personal management, publishing and production for artists such as Procol Harum guitarist Robin Trower.

Procol Harum’s official Facebook page paid tribute to Reid.

“We are saddened to hear of the passing of Keith Reid. An incomparable lyricist, Keith wrote the lyrics to virtually every Procol Harum song and co-wrote the John Farnham hit You’re The Voice. His lyrics were unique and helped shape the band’s music. His imaginative, surreal and layered words delighted Procol fans and their complexity by design was a strong addition to the Procol Harum catalogue. Our thoughts are with his family and friends.”

Among the survivors is Reid’s wife, identified only as Pinkey.