The band confirmed Keith’s dead was ‘sudden’ (Picture: Getty/Rex)
Procol Harum lyricist Keith Reid has died aged 76, after undergoing treatment for cancer.
The band confirmed Keith’s death in an emotional post on Wednesday, saying he had died ‘suddenly’.
The A Whiter Shade of Pale hitmakers wrote: ‘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.’
This is a breaking news story, more to follow soon… Check back shortly for further updates.
If you’ve got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.
For more stories like this, check our entertainment page.
Follow Metro.co.uk Entertainment on Twitter and Facebook for the latest celeb and entertainment updates. You can now also get Metro.co.uk articles sent straight to your device. Sign up for our daily push alerts here.
