# In 1965, The Byrds turned a folk song into a number one hit. Roger McGuinn called it “perfect”

- URL: https://talkfuse.com/story/in-1965-the-byrds-turned-a-folk-song-into-a-number-one-hit-roger-mcguinn-called-it-perfect/
- Published: 2026-11-14T16:25:04+00:00
- Updated: 2026-11-14T17:26:34+00:00
- Original publisher: Far Out
- Original article: https://faroutmagazine.co.uk/1965-the-byrds-turned-a-folk-song-into-a-number-one-hit/
- Topics: Entertainment, Music

## Key points

- The Byrds’ “Turn! Turn! Turn!” topped the US chart in 1965.
- McGuinn praised its melody and timeless lyrics.
- The song was written by Pete Seeger, adapting Ecclesiastes.

## Summary

The Byrds’ 1965 recording of Pete Seeger’s “Turn! Turn! Turn!” became a US number one, helping the band bring folk music into a brighter, electric pop sound. Roger McGuinn later called it his idea of a perfect song, praising its melody and enduring lyrics rather than its adherence to pop conventions.

McGuinn had arranged the folk song for other performers before adapting it for The Byrds, adding his distinctive 12-string guitar and a samba-influenced rhythm. The single was the group’s second and final US number one; although McGuinn became closely associated with it, he consistently credited Seeger, who adapted its words from Ecclesiastes 3:1–8.

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