About the song
“Blowing in the Wind” is a timeless folk anthem popularized by the iconic trio Peter, Paul and Mary. Originally penned by Bob Dylan in 1962, the song gained widespread acclaim and recognition through its soulful rendition by Peter, Paul and Mary on their 1963 album, “In the Wind.” This album not only highlighted the trio’s harmonious vocals but also solidified their position as leading voices in the 1960s folk music revival.
The song, with its poignant and introspective lyrics, poses a series of rhetorical questions about peace, war, and freedom, capturing the spirit of the civil rights movement and the anti-war sentiment of the era. Dylan’s composition, characterized by its simplicity and profound depth, resonated deeply with audiences, making it an anthem for social change and justice.
Peter, Paul and Mary’s version of “Blowing in the Wind” was a significant commercial success. It climbed to number two on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in August 1963, reflecting its widespread popularity and the trio’s exceptional musical talent. The album “In the Wind” itself was a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard 200 chart and showcasing the trio’s ability to interpret and elevate folk music.
Peter, Paul and Mary, composed of Peter Yarrow, Paul Stookey, and Mary Travers, were known for their harmonious blend and socially conscious music. Their rendition of “Blowing in the Wind” not only brought Dylan’s lyrics to a broader audience but also became a defining moment in their career. The song’s success helped to further the folk music movement and established the trio as influential figures in American music history.
The impact of “Blowing in the Wind” extends beyond its initial release. It has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, each adding their unique touch to this classic. The song’s enduring relevance is a testament to its powerful message and the universal longing for peace and justice that it encapsulates.
In summary, Peter, Paul and Mary’s rendition of “Blowing in the Wind” is more than just a song; it is a cultural landmark. It captures the essence of a turbulent era while delivering a message that continues to inspire and resonate with listeners today. Through their heartfelt performance, Peter, Paul and Mary transformed Dylan’s composition into an enduring anthem for social change, making it an integral part of the American musical landscape.
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Lyrics
How many roads must a man walk down
Before they call him a man?
How many seas must a white dove sail
Before she sleeps in the sand?
How many times must the cannon balls fly
Before they’re forever banned?The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind.How many years must a mountain exist
Before it is washed to the sea?
How many years can some people exist
Before they’re allowed to be free?
How many times can a man turn his head
And pretend that he just doesn’t see?The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind.How many times must a man look up
Before he can see the sky?
How many ears must one man have
Before he can hear people cry?
How many deaths will it take ’til he knows
That too many people have died?The answer, my friend, is blowin’ in the wind
The answer is blowin’ in the wind.
The answer is blowin’ in the wind.