“Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)” is a timeless folk rock anthem released in 1965 by the American band The Byrds. Formed in Los Angeles, California, in 1964, The Byrds are considered pioneers of folk rock, blending the lyrical depth of folk music with the electric instrumentation and energy of rock and roll. They achieved massive success with their jangling, twelve-string guitar sound, influenced heavily by The Beatles, and went on to influence generations of musicians. The Byrds were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1991, cementing their legacy as music innovators.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” became one of The Byrds’ signature songs, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in December 1965. The song’s lyrics are almost entirely taken verbatim from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament, reflecting on the cyclical nature of life, highlighting opposing forces like birth and death, planting and reaping, and war and peace. This timeless message, combined with the song’s captivating melody and Roger McGuinn’s distinctive vocals, resonated deeply with audiences during the turbulent times of the Vietnam War era.
The song was widely interpreted as a plea for peace and understanding, although the band members have stated that their intention was simply to present the wisdom of the Biblical text. Regardless, the song became an anthem for peace activists and counter-culture movements. Its enduring popularity stems from its universal message and its ability to evoke a sense of hope and reflection in listeners. Audience feedback over the years has consistently praised the song’s uplifting melody, profound lyrics, and its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of 1960s music and a timeless message for all generations.
