An Ode to Procol Harum

On Gary and Franky's Anniversary

Beverly Peyton is a long-time Procol fan and friend, living in Fort Lauderdale: fans will know of her New York hairdressing salon, 'Procol Hairum.' She writes, 'I thought you would like a sample of something I gave Gary for their anniversary. It was intended that the entire band would see it but, since I couldn't make the party, it kind of got lost in the shuffle. It was actually presented to Gary at Redhill: I had Diane give it to him. So, he has seen it. In fact, he has the original but, I don't think the rest of the band ever saw it. I originally hoped to be there to recite it.'

It was thirty years ago today,
Maestro Gary taught the band to play.
While Keith decided what to say ...
They could not miss, no how no way.

Was it the song that I so longed?
Talk about style, it made me smile.
It told a tale, it rocked, it wailed,
and so was born A Whiter Shade Of Pale.

It was thirty years ago today,
I knew I had to find a way,
to hear the song
that clearly belonged.

Ask how I feel?
The lyric said cartwheel!
How perfect, how sweet,
my day was complete ...
The journey would give me a chance to meet.

It was thirty years ago today,
Sgt. Pepper taught the band to play.
While Keith decided what to say,
This time the Beatles had to make way.

The critics raved, The Pale's a hit!
Four lads were seen chomping at the bit.
If truth be told, I'll be so bold,
It'll always be heaven, that song of '67.

Now years have passed, the band has grown.
The Pale no longer stands alone;
A Salty Dog, Conquistador,
just for this verse, All This And More.

I could go on for thirty years,
it's not my intent to bring you to tears.
But the more you shared your musical wealth,
even clerics were heard singing Luskus Delph!

My personal favorite? ... In Held 'Twas In I
it always makes me ponder and sigh.
Oh silly me, what on earth am I saying?
I'm on cloud nine, just as long as you're playing!

Well I hope it's thirty years from today,
No matter where, you'll still hear me say ...
thank God for that voice, thank God for those fingers,
no one compares, not one other singer.

More from the same poet!