About the song
Released in 1965, “Eve of Destruction” by Barry McGuire is a hauntingly prophetic song that has become an iconic representation of the tumultuous era of the 1960s. Written by P.F. Sloan and Steve Barri, the song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of a world on the brink of chaos, warning of the impending doom that loomed over humanity. With its powerful and poignant message, “Eve of Destruction” has stood the test of time, remaining a relevant and thought-provoking anthem for generations to come.
The song’s title, “Eve of Destruction,” is a reference to the biblical concept of the end of the world, where the eve of destruction is the last moment before the apocalypse. In this context, the song’s lyrics serve as a warning, urging listeners to take action and make a change before it’s too late. The song’s chorus, “The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind,” is a poignant reminder of the powerlessness of humanity in the face of catastrophic events.
The song’s lyrics are a scathing critique of the social and political climate of the 1960s, with McGuire’s gravelly vocals delivering a stark and unflinching assessment of the state of the world. From the Vietnam War to racial tensions, from poverty to environmental degradation, the song’s lyrics tackle some of the most pressing issues of the era. The song’s message is clear: the world is on the brink of destruction, and it’s up to humanity to take action to prevent it.
Despite being released over 50 years ago, “Eve of Destruction” remains a powerful and relevant song, with its message continuing to resonate with listeners today. The song’s themes of social justice, environmentalism, and the importance of taking action to prevent catastrophic events are just as relevant today as they were in the 1960s. In an era marked by increasing global tensions, environmental degradation, and social unrest, “Eve of Destruction” serves as a timely reminder of the importance of coming together to address the challenges facing humanity.
In conclusion, “Eve of Destruction” by Barry McGuire is a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its powerful and poignant message. The song’s themes of social justice, environmentalism, and the importance of taking action to prevent catastrophic events are just as relevant today as they were in the 1960s. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, “Eve of Destruction” serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of coming together to address the challenges facing humanity.
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Lyrics
The Eastern world, it is explodin’
Violence flarin’, bullets loadin’
You’re old enough to kill but not for votin’
You don’t believe in war, but what’s that gun you’re totin’?
And even the Jordan river has bodies floatin’
But you tell me
Over and over and over again, my friend
How you don’t believe
We’re on the eve of destruction
Don’t you understand what I’m trying to say
Can’t you feel the fears I’m feeling today?
If the button is pushed, there’s no runnin’ away
There’ll be no one to save with the world in a grave
Take a look around you boy, it’s bound to scare you, boy
And you tell me
Over and over and over again, my friend
How you don’t believe
We’re on the eve of destruction
Yeah, my blood’s so mad, feels like coagulatin’
I’m sittin’ here just contemplatin’
I can’t twist the truth, it knows no regulation
Handful of senators don’t pass legislation
And marches alone can’t bring integration
When human respect is disintegratin’
This whole crazy world is just too frustratin’
And you tell me
Over and over and over again, my friend
How you don’t believe
We’re on the eve of destruction
And think of all the hate there is in Red China
Then take a look around to Selma, Alabama
Ah, you may leave here for four days in space
But when you return, it’s the same old place
The poundin’ of the drums, the pride and disgrace
You can bury your dead, but don’t leave a trace
Hate your next door neighbor but don’t forget to say grace
And you tell me
Over and over and over and over again, my friend
You don’t believe we’re on the eve of destruction
No no, you don’t believe we’re on the eve of destruction