About the song
Released in 1966-67, “Turn, Turn, Turn” is a timeless classic by the Australian folk-pop band, The Seekers. This iconic song, written by Pete Seeger, is a masterful adaptation of the biblical book of Ecclesiastes, specifically chapter 3, verses 1-8. The song’s lyrics are a poignant reflection on the cyclical nature of life, where events unfold in a never-ending sequence of birth, growth, decay, and rebirth.
The Seekers’ rendition of “Turn, Turn, Turn” is a testament to the band’s ability to craft a unique sound that blends traditional folk with modern pop sensibilities. The song’s soaring harmonies, courtesy of lead vocalists Athol Guy, Keith Potger, Bruce Woodley, and Judith Durham, create a sense of euphoria that is both uplifting and haunting. The Seekers’ distinctive vocal blend, characterized by Durham’s powerful, soaring vocals and the group’s lush harmonies, adds a layer of depth and emotional resonance to the song.
The song’s message, while rooted in biblical scripture, is universally relatable, speaking to the human experience of navigating life’s twists and turns. The lyrics, which explore the themes of change, growth, and the passage of time, are both poignant and profound, offering a sense of comfort and reassurance to listeners. The song’s chorus, with its repetitive refrain of “turn, turn, turn,” becomes a powerful mantra, urging listeners to embrace the ebbs and flows of life with a sense of acceptance and resilience.
Throughout the song, The Seekers’ masterful musicianship shines, with intricate guitar work, lilting rhythms, and soaring vocal harmonies that create a sense of sonic tapestry. The song’s production, courtesy of legendary producer, Stewart Day, is equally impressive, with a warm, intimate sound that captures the band’s live energy and chemistry.
In conclusion, “Turn, Turn, Turn” by The Seekers is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences to this day. With its universal message, soaring harmonies, and masterful musicianship, this song is a testament to the enduring power of music to touch our hearts and souls.
Video
Lyrics
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time for 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 for every purpose under Heaven
A time to build up, a time to break down
A time to dance, a time to mourn
And 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 for every purpose under Heaven
A time of love, a time of hate
A time of war, a time of peace
And 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 for every purpose under Heaven
A time to gain, a time to lose
A time to rend, a time to sow
A time to love, a time to hate
A time for peace, I swear, it’s not too late
To everything, turn, turn, turn
There is a season, turn, turn, turn
And a time for every purpose under Heaven