“Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)” is an iconic folk-rock song released in 1965 by the American band, The Byrds. This quintet, formed in Los Angeles, were pioneers of the folk-rock movement, blending the jangly sounds of the British Invasion with the lyrical depth of folk music. Their signature sound, characterized by Roger McGuinn’s distinctive 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, catapulted them to fame in the mid-1960s. The Byrds achieved significant chart success with covers like “Mr. Tambourine Man,” which reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100, establishing their prominent place in popular music.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” quickly followed suit, also reaching the top spot on the Billboard charts, further solidifying The Byrds’ popularity. The song itself is a near-verbatim adaptation of verses from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, setting to music the timeless message of the cyclical nature of life, encompassing joy and sorrow, peace and war, and everything in between. Its universal message resonated deeply with audiences during the turbulent 1960s, a decade marked by social and political upheaval.
The song’s call for peace and understanding was particularly poignant during the Vietnam War era. Audiences embraced the song as an anthem of hope and a plea for unity. While some initially saw the religious undertones as a drawback, the overwhelming response was positive, with many praising its simple yet powerful message. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” continues to be a beloved classic, frequently featured in films, television, and cultural events, and remains a testament to The Byrds’ ability to capture the spirit of an era through beautifully crafted and meaningful music.
