A Rum Tale

Album: Grand Hotel (1973)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • For all the guys who have been torched by a woman and have a burning desire to move to an island, write some memoirs and live on rum and sunshine, Procol Harum gives us "A Rum Tale." Procol Harum's lyricist Keith Reid told us: "There's a song called 'A Rum Tale' on the Grand Hotel which I really like. It's got a real nice melody and it's quite a gentle song.

    Reid did not sing or play an instrument with Procol Harum, but was considered a full member of the band for his lyrics, which were very meticulous. Gary Brooker, who founded the band with Reid and put music to his words, told us: "I knew that he had thought very carefully about every single word. Every 'V' and 'N,' there wasn't anything - I mean, if I tried to take even a small adjective out of a line, it would be strongly resisted by Keith, because that would take away the sense that he had."

Comments: 1

  • Eduardo Hernández from Tamaulipas, MéxicoSuch a classy composition. I can't help but wonder how it wasn't a hit. As far as I know, it was released as a single or b-side. I guess it's about an emotional breakdown of a man who can't handle his relationship anymore for some reason and had enough of living his life. I guess we all can relate at some point to the desire of just give up on everything and escape somewhere we may find peace and rest.
see more comments

Editor's Picks

Producer Ron Nevison

Producer Ron NevisonSong Writing

Ron Nevison explains in very clear terms the Quadrophenia concept and how Heart staged their resurgence after being dropped by their record company.

Robert DeLeo of Stone Temple Pilots

Robert DeLeo of Stone Temple PilotsSongwriter Interviews

Stone Temple Pilots bass player Robert DeLeo names the songs that have most connected with fans and tells the stories behind tracks from their Tiny Music album.

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song Titles

Spot The Real Red Hot Chili Peppers Song TitlesMusic Quiz

The Red Hot Chili Peppers have some rather unusual song titles - see if you can spot the real ones.

Little Richard

Little RichardFact or Fiction

Was Long Tall Sally a cross-dresser? Did he really set his piano on fire? See if you know the real stories about one of rock's greatest innovators.

Joe Jackson

Joe JacksonSongwriter Interviews

Joe talks about the challenges of of making a Duke Ellington tribute album, and tells the stories behind some of his hits.

Desmond Child

Desmond ChildSongwriter Interviews

One of the most successful songwriters in the business, Desmond co-wrote "Livin' La Vida Loca," "Dude (Looks Like A Lady)" and "Livin' On A Prayer."