RIP Gary Brooker

[Ralph P.]

I just learned of the passing of Gary Brooker. He wrote one of the most devastatingly beautiful songs I’ve ever heard. This song touched my soul in ’67, and it still gets to me every time I hear it.

John Lennon even said this is the best song ever written:

Ralph

Ralph P.

[charjo]

One of the most hauntingly, beautiful songs ever written. I had no idea who Gary Brooker was, very sorry to find out this way.
John

[Ralph P.]

I agree John. Can’t think of too many other songs that are perfect.
Ralph

Ralph P.

[richard t]

High on the list of favorite songs. He touched a lot of souls. RIP.

[Ralph P.]

Yes, very high on my list too Richard. Quite a legacy to leave for us.
Ralph

Ralph P.

[Sal]

A beautiful song by Gary Brooker, and I also like the version by Johnny Rivers on his “”Realization” album!!

[Ralph P.]

I had forgotten about Johnny Rivers version Sal. He did do a very good job on his cover. I always liked Johnny’s voice. He seemed to have quite a few hits and then disappeared. Thanks for reminding me of his version. I just gave it another listen after 40 years.
Ralph

Ralph P.

[San Luis Rey]

Another great song from the 60’s. For a long time I thought Steve Winwood sang that . RIP Mr. Brooker

Mike

[Ralph P.]

He does have a Winwood soulfulness to his voice. I would love to hear Winwood sing this.
Ralph

Ralph P.

[Ralph P.]

Since you brought it up Mike, I just looked it up and found a version of Steve Winwood and Carlos Santana doing Whiter Shade. I don’t know how I missed this one. Awesome.

Ralph

Ralph P.

[charjo]

Stevie’s voice does this justice. I may be going against the grain here but I find this Santana habit of putting guitar phrases between each vocal line kind of formulaic and a bit tiresome. I think it actually takes away from the groove. I kind of prefer his pre-PRS tone, also.
John

[Ralph P.]

I agree about his phrasing John. It has gotten very predictable. Same as Smooth, Game Of Love, etc. Also, I think his outro solo was a little “overkill”. He should have let Stevie play some guitar on this. He’s a very tasteful and understated lead player.

Ralph P.

[San Luis Rey]

Cool Ralph! Stevie is just a great singer/ musician. The Procal Harum original version is the one embedded in my brain though.

Mike

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