About The Song
The Byrds’ “Turn! Turn! Turn!” (1965) is one of the most iconic folk-rock songs of the 1960s, blending timeless wisdom, spiritual depth, and the signature shimmering jangle of Roger McGuinn’s 12-string Rickenbacker guitar. More than just a hit song, it became an anthem of peace and change, resonating with the era’s social movements and countercultural ideals.
Originally written by Pete Seeger in 1959, the lyrics of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” are nearly verbatim from the Book of Ecclesiastes (3:1-8) in the Bible, making it one of the few chart-topping songs with almost entirely biblical text. The passage’s poetic structure, emphasizing the cyclical nature of life—birth and death, love and hate, war and peace—gives the song a profound, universal quality.“A time for peace, I swear it’s not too late,” reinforcing the song’s relVietnam War era.
While Seeger’s folk version had a more stripped-down, traditional feel, The Byrds transformed it into a folk-rock masterpiece, following the success of their eBob Dylan’s “Mr. Tambourine Man.” Their arrangement isoaring harmonies, a driving rhythm, and McGuinn’s signature jangling guitar sound, whichthe folk-rock movement.
The song became a massive hit, reaching **No. 1No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in late 1965one of the few songs with biblical lyrics to top the charts. Its messagehope, patience, and the inevitability of change made it a natupeace movement of the 1960s, and ittimes of social upheaval and reflection.
Beyond its historical significance, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” remaa beautifully crafted song, balancsimplicity and depth. Therich vocal harmonies, precise instrumentation, and thoughtful delivery ensuremost enduring folk-rock songs of all time.reminder of life’s constant changes and the hope that peace will always have its time.