Keith Reid

Although he did not sing or play an instrument, lyricist Keith Reid was a pivotal element to the long-term success of art rock mainstays Procol Harum, teaming up with vocalist/composer Gary Brooker to write all of the group's material. Born October 19, 1946, in London, he left school at 15 and soon began writing lyrics, inspired primarily by Bob Dylan. Through Island Records chief Chris Blackwell, Reid was introduced to R&B impresario Guy Stevens, who in turn introduced him to fledgling composer Brooker in 1966. The two began collaborating, and upon compiling a number of songs...