“Turn! Turn! Turn! (To Everything There Is a Season)” is a folk rock song released in 1965 by the American band The Byrds, becoming one of their signature tracks and a defining anthem of the era. The Byrds, formed in Los Angeles in 1964, were pioneers of folk rock, blending the lyrical content of folk music with the electric instrumentation and energy of rock and roll. Known for their distinctive jangling 12-string Rickenbacker guitar sound, the band initially comprised Jim McGuinn (later Roger McGuinn), Gene Clark, David Crosby, Chris Hillman, and Michael Clarke.
“Turn! Turn! Turn!” draws its lyrics almost entirely from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament. The song speaks to the cyclical nature of life, highlighting the contrasting experiences and emotions that come with each season. It’s a message of acceptance, urging listeners to embrace the ebb and flow of life, recognizing that both joy and sorrow, peace and war, have their place. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universality, offering solace and perspective across generations.
Upon its release, “Turn! Turn! Turn!” soared to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart, solidifying The Byrds’ position as a major force in popular music. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its status as a classic. Audience reception was overwhelmingly positive, with many finding the song’s message of hope and acceptance particularly resonant during the turbulent times of the 1960s. Its simple, yet profound, lyrics continue to resonate with listeners today, making it a timeless anthem of peace, reflection, and the enduring cycles of life. The song’s powerful message of unity has made it a favorite for peace movements and a comforting reminder of life’s inherent balance.