About the song
Certainly! Here is the introduction for the song “Turn! Turn! Turn!” performed by Judy Collins and Pete Seeger:
—
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” is a timeless folk anthem that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages, particularly those who lived through the transformative decades of the 1960s and 1970s. This iconic song, performed by the legendary Judy Collins and the prolific folk musician Pete Seeger, carries a rich history and profound message that continues to inspire.
The song’s lyrics were adapted by Pete Seeger in the late 1950s from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, which speaks to the cyclical nature of life and the inevitability of change. Seeger’s masterful arrangement brought these ancient words into the context of contemporary folk music, imbuing them with a sense of immediacy and relevance. First recorded by Seeger in 1962, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” became a poignant anthem for the peace and civil rights movements of the 1960s.
Judy Collins, known for her crystalline voice and evocative interpretations of folk and contemporary music, brought her unique touch to the song. Collins’ collaboration with Seeger is a celebration of their shared commitment to social justice and artistic expression. Their rendition of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” was featured on various live recordings and compilations, capturing the spirit of an era marked by both turmoil and hope.
Though the song is most famously associated with The Byrds, whose 1965 version soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100, Judy Collins and Pete Seeger’s interpretations hold a special place in the hearts of folk music aficionados. Their performances of “Turn! Turn! Turn!” reflect a deep reverence for the song’s message and an unwavering dedication to using music as a tool for change.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” remains a beloved classic, reminding us all that there is a time for every purpose under heaven. Through the voices of Judy Collins and Pete Seeger, this song continues to inspire and uplift, a testament to the enduring power of music to connect us to our shared humanity.
Video
Lyrics
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to be born, a time to die
A time to plant, a time to reap
A time to kill, a time to heal
A time to laugh, a time to weep
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose, under heaven
A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
A time to cast away stones
A time to gather stones together
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
A time you may embrace
A time to refrain from embracing
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time to every purpose under heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sew
A time for love, a time for hate
A time for peace, I swear it’s not too late