About the song
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is a timeless folk rock anthem that has resonated with audiences since its release in 1965. Featured on their album ‘Turn! Turn! Turn!’, the song is renowned for its melodic beauty and profound lyrics, which draw inspiration from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible.
The song’s lyrics were adapted almost verbatim from the Book of Ecclesiastes by Pete Seeger, a folk singer and social activist known for his contributions to the American folk music revival. Pete Seeger’s adaptation captured the essence of the biblical verses, which speak to the cyclical nature of life, seasons, and the passage of time.
Upon its release, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” became a chart-topping hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its success solidified The Byrds’ status as pioneers of folk rock and showcased their ability to blend traditional folk influences with the burgeoning rock sound of the 1960s.
The Byrds’ rendition of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” is characterized by its jangly guitars, tight harmonies, and Roger McGuinn’s distinctive 12-string guitar playing. These elements, combined with the song’s profound lyrics and uplifting message, struck a chord with listeners during a period of social change and cultural upheaval.
The song’s enduring popularity can be attributed to its universal message of hope, peace, and acceptance of life’s inevitable cycles. Its inclusion in various films, TV shows, and cultural references over the decades has cemented its status as a classic of the folk rock genre.
In summary, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds stands as a testament to the band’s musical innovation and their ability to translate ancient wisdom into a contemporary song that continues to inspire and resonate with audiences of all ages. Its timeless appeal and message of introspection remain as relevant today as they were upon its release.
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Lyrics
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones
A time to gather stones together
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace
A time to refrain from embracing
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time for love, a time for hate
A time for peace, I swear it’s not too late