The Legacy of “Turn! Turn! Turn!”: A Folk Rock Masterpiece by The Byrds

“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is one of the most enduring songs of the 1960s, known for its thoughtful lyrics and signature folk-rock sound. Released in 1965, this iconic track was adapted by folk singer Pete Seeger from the biblical verses of Ecclesiastes, and The Byrds turned it into a powerful anthem that resonated with the social movements of the era. With jangling 12-string guitars and harmonized vocals, The Byrds captured both the spirit of reflection and a call for peace, making “Turn! Turn! Turn!” an instant hit.

The lyrics of the song are almost entirely taken from the Bible, specifically from Ecclesiastes 3:1-8, which speaks about the cyclical nature of life and the notion that everything has its proper time. Pete Seeger had set these words to music in 1959, but it was The Byrds’ version that gave the song its enduring popularity. The combination of folk music’s storytelling tradition with the upbeat tempo of rock created a sound that was both soothing and energizing.

Upon its release, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” became a major success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1965. It became an anthem of peace and hope, especially in the context of the Vietnam War and the civil rights movements of the 1960s. The song remains relevant today for its timeless message and its beautiful fusion of music and meaning.

Did You Know?

• Biblical Lyrics: The majority of the lyrics for “Turn! Turn! Turn!” are taken from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament, with only the phrase “Turn! Turn! Turn!” and the final line being original additions by Pete Seeger.
• A Folk Song Before Rock: Pete Seeger originally wrote and recorded “Turn! Turn! Turn!” as a folk song in 1959, but it was The Byrds who transformed it into a chart-topping rock hit in 1965.
• A Song of Peace: Although the lyrics are religious in origin, the song became an anthem for peace during the Vietnam War, especially with its message of balance and hope for a better time.
• Jangly Guitar Sound: The Byrds’ Roger McGuinn’s use of the Rickenbacker 12-string guitar on this track became a defining sound for the band and helped pioneer the folk-rock genre.
• Chart Success: “Turn! Turn! Turn!” hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1965, becoming one of The Byrds’ most successful songs alongside their other classic “Mr. Tambourine Man.”

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“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is a timeless anthem that has transcended decades with its message of peace, balance, and the cyclical nature of life. By adapting biblical verses into a folk-rock classic, The Byrds created a song that speaks to universal truths while resonating with the social changes of the 1960s. Whether you appreciate the song for its musicality, its message, or both, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” remains one of the most impactful tracks in the history of folk rock.