About the song
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is a timeless classic that beautifully merges folk wisdom with rock sensibilities. Released in October 1965, this song quickly became an anthem for the 1960s, capturing the era’s spirit of change and reflection. The song is the title track of The Byrds’ second album, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” and remains one of their most iconic hits.
The lyrics of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” are adapted almost verbatim from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, specifically Ecclesiastes 3:1-8. The only words not taken directly from this scripture are the song’s title and the phrase “I swear it’s not too late,” which were added by Pete Seeger, the folk music legend who originally composed the song in the late 1950s. Seeger’s addition of the word “turn” emphasizes the cyclical nature of life, a theme that resonates deeply with listeners.
The Byrds’ rendition of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” was produced by Terry Melcher and features the band’s signature jangly 12-string Rickenbacker guitar sound, played by Roger McGuinn. This distinctive sound, combined with the group’s harmonious vocals, gave the song a unique blend of folk and rock that appealed to a wide audience. The Byrds’ arrangement turned Seeger’s folk composition into a folk-rock masterpiece that captured the zeitgeist of the 1960s.
Upon its release, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” quickly ascended the charts, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States by December 1965. The song’s success solidified The Byrds’ place in the music industry and helped popularize the folk-rock genre. Its message of peace, patience, and the inevitability of change struck a chord during a tumultuous time in American history, marked by civil rights movements and the Vietnam War.
The album “Turn! Turn! Turn!” also enjoyed commercial success, showcasing The Byrds’ talent for blending traditional folk music with contemporary rock influences. The album includes other notable tracks such as “It Won’t Be Wrong” and “Set You Free This Time,” further establishing The Byrds as pioneers in the evolving landscape of 1960s music.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” has endured as a cultural and musical touchstone over the decades. Its lyrics, derived from ancient wisdom, paired with the modern musical arrangement, continue to resonate with new generations. The song has been featured in various movies, television shows, and covers by numerous artists, underscoring its lasting impact and universal appeal.
In conclusion, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is not just a song but a piece of musical history that encapsulates the essence of an era. Its profound lyrics, coupled with The Byrds’ innovative sound, have ensured its place as a beloved classic. Whether reflecting on times past or considering the future, listeners find solace and inspiration in the timeless message that to everything, there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven.
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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