Procol Harum

Lyrics

2 ContributorsQuite Rightly So LyricsFor you (whose eyes were opened wide
Whilst mine refused to see)
I'm sore in need of saving grace
Be kind and humour me
I'm lost amidst a sea of wheat
Where people speak but seldom meet
And grief and laughter, strange but true
Although they die, they seldom cry

An ode by any other name, yeah
I know might read more sweet
Perhaps the sun will never shine
Upon my field of wheat
But still in closing, let me say
For those too sick, yeah, too sick to see
Though not it shows, yes, someone knows
I wish that one was me

Yeah!

An ode by any other name, yeah
I know might read more sweet
Perhaps the sun will never shine
Upon my field of wheat
But still in closing, let me say
Yeah, for those too sick, too sick to see
Though not it shows, yes, someone knows
I wish that one was me
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I wish that one was me

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If you're a fan of classic rock, then you're probably familiar with the legendary band Procol Harum. With their unique blend of progressive rock, blues, and symphonic elements, the band captivated audiences in the late 1960s and early 1970s. One of their standout tracks is "Quite Rightly So," a song that showcases the band's musical prowess and lyrical depth. In this description, we'll explore the fascinating details of this iconic track and its significance in Procol Harum's discography.

About Quite Rightly So

Released in 1968 as the lead single from their third studio album "Shine on Brightly," "Quite Rightly So" quickly became a fan favorite. The song was written by the band's lyricist Keith Reid and keyboardist Gary Brooker, who later explained that the track's title was inspired by something poet Dylan Thomas once said. With its introspective lyrics and haunting melodies, the song stands out as a classic example of Procol Harum's unique sound.

"Quite Rightly So" begins with a gentle, melancholic piano intro, instantly setting a somber and contemplative mood. As the song progresses, the distinctive voice of lead vocalist Gary Brooker takes center stage, delivering the introspective lyrics with a blend of emotion and vulnerability. The band's meticulous instrumentation, including Robin Trower's soul-stirring guitar work and Matthew Fisher's ethereal organ melodies, adds layers of depth to the track.

One of the notable aspects of "Quite Rightly So" is its poetic and thought-provoking lyrics. Keith Reid's lyrical genius shines through as he explores themes of introspection, self-discovery, and the complexities of human emotions. The lines "Can you hear your children crying?/Frantically searching for their mothers/Don't you hear them anymore?" underline the hauntingly beautiful and introspective nature of the song.

As the track unfolds, listeners are taken on an emotional journey, with the lush instrumentation and mesmerizing vocal performances creating a sense of catharsis. The song's dynamics perfectly balance moments of subdued reflection with powerful crescendos, drawing the listener in and immersing them in Procol Harum's captivating sonic world.

Not only is "Quite Rightly So" musically captivating, but it also showcases Procol Harum's ability to seamlessly fuse different influences. The band's incorporation of classical and baroque elements, such as the use of a string section, gives the song a grand, symphonic quality. This blending of rock and classical influences was a defining characteristic of Procol Harum's sound and set them apart from their contemporaries.

From a production standpoint, "Quite Rightly So" exemplifies the attention to detail and sonic experimentation that became synonymous with Procol Harum's work. The song's rich textures and layers of instrumentation were expertly crafted, with each instrument serving a purpose in building the song's atmosphere and emotional depth.

Despite its brilliance, "Quite Rightly So" didn't achieve significant commercial success upon its release. Nevertheless, the song has endured over the years as a testament to the enduring talent and artistry of Procol Harum. It continues to be celebrated by fans and critics alike for its introspective lyrics, intricate musical arrangements, and the emotive performances of the band.

Influence and Legacy

"Quite Rightly So" remains an important piece in Procol Harum's extensive discography. The song's introspective themes and musical craftsmanship have had a lasting impact on subsequent generations of musicians. Its unique blend of genres and the band's willingness to explore new sonic territories paved the way for the progressive rock movement that would follow.

Over the years, "Quite Rightly So" has been covered by various artists, including the likes of The Flaming Lips and Mojo Kane, further solidifying its status as a classic rock gem. The song's enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal themes and timeless sound, bridging the gap between past and present.

In addition to its musical influence, "Quite Rightly So" also serves as a testament to the songwriting prowess of Keith Reid. His ability to weave intricate and introspective narratives through his lyrics has left an indelible mark on Procol Harum's body of work. The song stands as a poignant example of Reid's talent for capturing complex emotions and the human experience.

In Closing

"Quite Rightly So" is a musical masterpiece that shines a spotlight on Procol Harum's unparalleled artistry. Through its introspective lyrics, mesmerizing melodies, and meticulous instrumentation, the song showcases the band's ability to create powerful and evocative music. Its enduring appeal and influence on subsequent generations of musicians stand as a testament to the timeless quality of Procol Harum's music. So, sit back, immerse yourself in the captivating sounds of "Quite Rightly So," and let it transport you to a world of introspection and exploration.

• Release Date: None
• Artist: Procol Harum