The Byrds’ Musical Evolution with “Turn! Turn! Turn”

“Turn! Turn! Turn!” is a song by the American rock band The Byrds. It was released in 1965 on their album of the same name and written by Pete Seeger. The lyrics of the song are adapted almost entirely from the Book of Ecclesiastes in the Bible, with the exception of the opening line, “To everything (turn, turn, turn), there is a season (turn, turn, turn).”

The song’s message emphasizes the cyclical nature of life, with seasons of joy, sorrow, love, and peace. The repetitive refrain of “turn, turn, turn” reinforces the theme of change and the passage of time.

The melody is folk-rock in style, and the harmonious vocals of The Byrds, along with the 12-string guitar work, contribute to the song’s distinctive sound.

“Turn! Turn! Turn!” became a major hit for The Byrds, reaching the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It remains one of the band’s most recognizable and enduring songs. The song’s message of hope, coupled with its timeless lyrics and melodic beauty, has contributed to its status as a classic of 1960s music.