Southend band Procol Harum have topped the list of the most-played song for A Whiter Shade of Pale.

The 1967 classic reached worldwide sales of £6m. The melody was written by Gary Brooker who went to school in Southend.

The tune is based on a movement in Bach's Suite No 3 in D Major. Drummer Bobby Harrison still lives in Shoebury.

Published Monday May 17, 2004

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