The Byrds – Turn! Turn! Turn! (1965)

About the song

“Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds is a timeless classic that resonates with generations of music lovers, especially those who appreciate the profound simplicity of the 1960s folk-rock era. Released in 1965, this song is a masterful adaptation of the words from the Bible’s Book of Ecclesiastes, set to music by folk legend Pete Seeger in the late 1950s. The Byrds’ rendition, featured on their album “Turn! Turn! Turn!”, brought this reflective piece to a wider audience, blending their signature jangly guitar sound with harmonious vocals.

The Byrds, comprised of Roger McGuinn, Gene Clark, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, and Michael Clarke, were known for their ability to transform folk songs with electric rock arrangements. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” is a quintessential example of this, where McGuinn’s distinctive 12-string Rickenbacker guitar creates a rich, ringing backdrop that complements the song’s introspective lyrics.

Upon its release, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” achieved significant commercial success. It climbed to the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, becoming the band’s second hit after “Mr. Tambourine Man.” This success was a testament to The Byrds’ skillful fusion of folk and rock, a genre-blending approach that influenced countless artists and bands in the years to follow.

The song’s lyrics, essentially unchanged from the original biblical verses, speak to the natural cycles of life—times of joy, sorrow, work, rest, war, and peace. This universality, coupled with The Byrds’ heartfelt performance, ensures that “Turn! Turn! Turn!” remains relevant and moving, even decades after its initial release. For many, it is not just a song but a poignant reminder of the enduring truths that connect us all.

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