“Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)” is a timeless anthem of peace and acceptance, delivered by the pioneering American rock band, The Byrds. Released in 1965, the song became a defining moment in the band’s career and a resonant soundtrack for a generation navigating social and political upheaval.
The Byrds, formed in Los Angeles in 1964, were pioneers of folk-rock, blending the lyrical depth of folk music with the electric energy of rock and roll. Their signature sound, characterized by Roger McGuinn’s distinctive 12-string Rickenbacker guitar, helped shape the burgeoning counterculture movement.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” is unique in its lyrical origins. The words, with the exception of the title (which was written by Pete Seeger), are adapted almost entirely from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible. Seeger, a prominent folk singer, had set these verses to music in 1962. The Byrds’ rendition transformed it into a global hit, reaching the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in December 1965, and became their second number-one hit. It also enjoyed international success, charting high in countries like Canada and the Netherlands.
The song’s message is one of cyclical change and acceptance of life’s contrasting experiences. Each verse pairs opposites – birth and death, laughter and weeping, war and peace – emphasizing that everything has its appointed time and purpose. It promotes the finding of harmony in a world of contrasts.
The public response to “Turn! Turn! Turn!” was overwhelmingly positive, and it became an anthem during the American anti-war movement. Its message of peace and understanding resonated deeply with a generation grappling with the Vietnam War and the broader social changes of the 1960s. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message, soothing melody, and The Byrds’ signature harmonious vocals, making it a classic that continues to inspire and comfort listeners today.