Keith Reid has died, Procol Harum confirmed in an emotional statement shared on social media.
The group, who originated from Southend-on-Sea, were best known for their 1967 hit, A Whiter Shade of Pale, paid tribute to their long-term songwriter who had been battling cancer.
A Whiter Shade of Pale was later inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame back in 1998, as well as being crowned the most-played song for the past 75 years by the BBC in 2009.
Keith wasn't a performing member of the group but founded the band with vocalist Gary Booker who tragically died in February 2022, the same year the group disbanded.
Sadly, Keith's battle came to a sudden end and he passed away in London last Thursday (March 23).
The rockers said via their record label: "It is with the deepest sadness that we must announce the passing of the lyricist Keith Reid, who died suddenly on 23 March 2023, in hospital in London. He had been receiving cancer treatment for the past couple of years.
"Keith was the co-founder and lyricist for the band Procol Harum, notably penning their biggest hit A Whiter Shade of Pale, which contains some of the most enigmatic lyrics of all time. He always said that, at the end of his life, he would explain what it all meant: but sadly he didn’t get this opportunity.
"Keith was also involved in numerous other projects within entertainment and was a co-writer on what became known as the unofficial Australian anthem You’re the Voice, sung by John Farnham.
"His family would like to thank numerous well-wishers for their very kind messages. A private funeral will be held, and this page will be updated soon with details for those who would like to make a donation in his memory.
"Keith will be greatly missed."
Fans soon rushed to the comment section to share their condolences with one writing: "A life well lived doing what he loved. RIP Mr. Reid. My favourite Procol Harum song is Salty Dog. So hauntingly beautiful about those sailors of old. And the Seagulls at the end is the perfect ending. The Live In Alberta version is as excellent as it gets. And that was 1971."
"Procol Harem's music was so different and exciting! I'm so sad for his loss. May he Rest In Peace," said a second.
Before a third typed: "So sad to see this. My sympathies to Keith's family and friends."
"RIP Keith Reid, and condolences to his family. A brilliant lyricist. PH thought so much of him that they made him a group member. An immense talent," noted another.
