"You're The Voice" writer dies aged 76
Songwriting legend Keith Reid has died aged 76.
Reid was the lyricist for British rock band Procol Harum and co-wrote John Farnham’s greatest hit, You’re The Voice.
The news of Reid’s death comes after Farnham was rushed to hospital with a respiratory infection several months after undergoing surgery to remove a tumour.
Reid was behind You’re The Voice alongside co-writers Andy Qunta, Maggie Ryder and Chris Thomspon in 1986.
The song reached number one in the charts in Australia and peaked at number six in the UK.
The song is one of the most loved and iconic rock anthems in Australian music history.
British rockers Procol Harum confirmed Reid had passed in a statement on Facebook.
“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,” the band said.
“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.”
Farnham’s family have shared that the Aussie icon, 73, is in hospital being treated for a respiratory condition.
“But he is comfortable and receiving the best care,” the statement from his wife Jill Farnham said.
“John continues his recovery following last year’s successful surgery. He’s always been a strong and determined person with everything he’s ever done and we are all so very proud of him.
“He is responding well to the specialist care he’s receiving.
“The family would like to reiterate their appreciation for all the medical staff that have attended to John over the past six months, and for all the kind messages that have been received from across Australia and the world.”
Image credit: Facebook