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British rock band renowned for their pioneering blend of rock, blues, classical, and baroque influences, famous for the iconic hit "A Whiter Shade of Pale".Formed in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, England, in 1967 from the ashes of The Paramounts. The original classic lineup featured Gary Brooker (vocals, piano), Keith Reid (lyricist), Matthew Fisher (organ), Robin Trower (guitar), David Knights (bass), and B.J. Wilson (drums). Achieved global superstardom with their debut single "A Whiter Shade of Pale" in 1967. Released critically acclaimed albums like "Procol Harum" (1967), "Shine On Brightly" (1968), "A Salty Dog" (1969), "Home" (1970), and "Broken Barricades" (1971). Experienced numerous lineup changes throughout their career, disbanding in 1977. Reunited periodically starting in 1991, releasing new material including "The Prodigal Stranger" (1991) and "Novum" (2017). Known for sophisticated song structures, Brooker's soulful vocals, and Fisher's distinctive Hammond organ sound.

• "A Whiter Shade of Pale", released in May 1967, became a global phenomenon, selling over 10 million copies. Its Bach-inspired organ melody and enigmatic lyrics made it an anthem of the 'Summer of Love'.
• Organist Matthew Fisher successfully sued Gary Brooker and Keith Reid for co-authorship royalties on "A Whiter Shade of Pale" in 2006, decades after its release, arguing his organ melody was crucial to the song's identity.
• The band's unusual name came from a friend's cat's pedigree name (Procul Harun, Latin for 'beyond these things'). It was misspelled on their first contract, leading to the now-familiar 'Procol Harum'.
• Drummer B.J. Wilson, considered one of rock's finest, struggled with severe alcoholism, contributing to his departure from the band in 1977. He died in 1990 from pneumonia and brain damage related to his alcoholism.
• Lyricist Keith Reid never performed with the band but was a core member, providing all the lyrics for their classic period. He was essentially a non-performing songwriter within the group structure.
• The band pioneered the fusion of rock with classical music, performing live with full orchestras as early as 1969 (the Edmonton Symphony concert, released as a hit live album in 1972).