Peter Yarrow, of the iconic folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, died at age 86 on Tuesday after battling bladder cancer. His music, politics, and cultural movements epitomized the era he shared with us, and his voice will still continue to echo after he’s gone.
A Voice That Defined a Generation
Yarrow’s musical path, which started at college, flowed into the beginning of Peter, Paul, and Mary in 1961. The group included himself, Mary Travers, and Noel Paul Stookey, co-writing and carrying out memorable classic hits such as “Puff, the Magic Dragon”, “The Great Mandella”, and “Day Is Done”. Their songs became proof not only of his great music but also that he tries to talk about some acute social and political issues using his art.
The trio had huge success in the 1960s, placing six singles in the Top 10 and five albums in the Top 10 in the United States. Their version of John Denver’s “Leaving on a Jet Plane” reached number one, which helped to establish the group in music history. Much more than just commercial success, Peter, Paul, and Mary became icons of the civil rights movement, performing Bob Dylan’s “Blowin’ in the Wind” during the 1963 March on Washington.
A Career Tied to Activism
Most of the songs written by Yarrow were full of social justice and change. The Great Mandella told the story of an objector of war, whereas Day Is Done urged the new generation to make a stand for a decent future. They extended their voice and activism beyond singing as they supported and joined in protests for various progressive causes all through their careers.
There were, however, controversies surrounding his life. He was convicted of an indecent act involving a minor in 1970, though he was able to secure a presidential pardon afterwards. The incident never left a smear on his public image. But Yarrow did not let the fact stop him from advocating for various causes and performing for movements such as Occupy Wall Street or supporting candidates such as President Barack Obama.
Musical Beginnings and the Rise of a Folk Trio
Born on May 31, 1938, to Ukrainian-Jewish immigrants, Yarrow grew up in Providence, Rhode Island. Graduating from Cornell University with a degree in psychology, he found his passion for folk music during performances inspired by his college lectures.
Yarrow met Mary Travers and Noel Paul Stookey in New York City, and the trio basically became the voice of a generation. The 1962 debut album remained in the charts for two years as a launching pad to a storied career. Songs like “If I Had a Hammer” and “Puff, the Magic Dragon” came to typify their signature blend of traditional folk and contemporary themes.
Legacy
Until much later in life, Yarrow continued with his music and advocacy. He performs with his children and, in collaboration with other artists, continues to inspire people through his commitment to using music as a tool for change. His influence on folk music, activism, and cultural movements runs deep.
Noel Paul Stookey, the last surviving member of Peter, Paul, and Mary, called Yarrow a brother and inspiration. With his death, an era died, but the songs he leaves behind and what he stood for will persist for many, many years into the future.
