About the song
Introducing “Turn! Turn! Turn!” by The Byrds takes me back to a time when folk rock was at the forefront of musical innovation, weaving intricate melodies with timeless lyrics. Released in 1965, this classic track epitomizes the spirit of an era marked by social change and cultural revolution.
Penned by the legendary folk musician Pete Seeger, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” carries a profound message of hope and renewal, drawing inspiration from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible. Its iconic refrain, “To everything (turn, turn, turn) / There is a season (turn, turn, turn)”, resonates with listeners across generations, reminding us of the cyclical nature of life.
The song was featured on The Byrds’ second studio album, aptly titled “Turn! Turn! Turn!” after its hit single. The album, released in late 1965, soared to the top of the charts, showcasing The Byrds’ unique blend of folk, rock, and poetic lyricism. “Turn! Turn! Turn!” itself reached remarkable heights, claiming the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying The Byrds’ status as pioneers of the folk rock genre.
With its jangly guitars, ethereal harmonies, and poignant lyrics, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Its timeless appeal lies in its ability to transcend the confines of any one era, speaking to the universal themes of love, loss, and the passage of time.
So, as we revisit this musical masterpiece by The Byrds, let us take a moment to reflect on the enduring power of music to inspire, uplift, and unite us all. Turn, turn, turn the dial, and let the timeless melodies of The Byrds carry you to a place where the past meets the present, and the spirit of hope prevails.
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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