A Whiter Shade of Pale authorship lawsuit

Press release from Harbottle & Lewis, 8 November 2006

Press Release

Proceedings in Chancery Division concerning "Whiter Shade of Pale" by  Procol Harum 

On Monday 13 November 2006 the trial will commence in the Chancery Division in connection with the iconic British rock band Procol Harum. Matthew Fisher, the former organist in the band, issued proceedings against Gary Brooker MBE and Onward Music Limited claiming a share of the copyright in ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ nearly 40 years after the song was a number one hit in 1967.

This claim is strongly contested by Mr Brooker and co-author of the song Keith Reid. Mr Brooker said “'A Whiter Shade of Pale' was written by Keith and myself before Matthew even joined the band.  I am shocked and dismayed that after Matthew had worked with us quite happily over the course of nearly forty years without him once alleging that his role on ‘A Whiter Shade of Pale’ was anything other than as a musician, it is only now that he claims to recall “composing” part of the song.  I think people can draw their own conclusions from this.”

Harbottle & Lewis LLP are the solicitors for the defendants. Counsels for the defendants are Andrew Sutcliffe QC and Richard Edwards of 3 Verulam Buildings.

For further information please contact Lawrence Abramson on 020 7667 5000 or email lawrence.abramson@harbottle.com

Notes for Editors

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