“Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)” is a timeless folk-rock anthem by the American band, The Byrds, released in October 1965. The Byrds, pioneers of the folk-rock and psychedelic rock genres, were known for their signature jangling 12-string guitar sound and close vocal harmonies. This song, their second number-one hit, solidified their place in music history.
The song’s lyrics are almost entirely adapted from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, with the exception of the title phrase and the final line, “a time for peace, I swear it’s not too late.” Pete Seeger, a prominent folk singer, originally arranged these biblical verses into a song in the late 1950s. The Byrds’ version, arranged by band member Jim McGuinn, transformed Seeger’s folk arrangement into a vibrant, electrified rock composition.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” resonated deeply with audiences during the turbulent Vietnam War era. Its message of cyclical change, encompassing birth and death, laughter and mourning, war and peace, provided a sense of perspective and solace. The hopeful addition of the final line offered a plea for peace, contrasting the biblical acceptance of all seasons with a yearning for a better future.
The song’s impact was immediate and significant. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in December 1965, becoming the number-one song with the oldest sourced lyrics. It also reached number 26 on the UK Singles Chart. Critics praised its innovative blend of folk sensibility and rock instrumentation, as well as its poignant message. The song has since become a cultural touchstone, frequently used in films, television, and other media to evoke a sense of reflection, nostalgia, and the passage of time. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” remains a testament to the enduring power of scripture, folk music, and The Byrds’ unique musical vision.