Turn, Turn, Turn - The Byrds | Song Tabs - Guitar Chord Sheets

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Turn, Turn, Turn The Byrds

Background

Originally by The Byrds, "Turn, Turn, Turn" is a folk rock classic that pairs poetic lyrics with jangly, chiming guitar. The song’s even tempo and familiar chords make it approachable for beginners.

Chords

You’ll need the open chords C, G, F, Em, and Dm. The F chord can be tricky for beginners; try the simplified version (xx3211) if the full barre feels too hard.

Strumming Pattern

A basic folk strum works well: try down-down-up-up-down-up (D-D-U-U-D-U). Keep your strumming hand moving evenly and lightly for the song’s gentle rhythm.

Chord Transitions

Practice switching between C and G, as these changes happen frequently, especially in the intro and between lines. Moving between F and Em can also be challenging; lift your fingers as little as possible to speed up the transition.

Techniques & Tips

If you’re struggling with the quick chord changes, slow down and play along with the recording at a reduced speed. Focus on smooth transitions rather than speed at first. For the instrumental section, maintain the same strumming and chord patterns.

The song’s feel comes from steady, even strumming, so don’t rush. Accent the first down strum of each bar for a more authentic sound. Singing along can help keep your timing consistent.

C

G

Em

Dm

F

Intro

C G C G

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm

Chorus

G To everyC thingF turnEm turnG turn. There is aC seasonF turnEm turnG turn.

AndF a timeEm to everyDm purposeG , underC heaven.G C

Verse 1

A time to beG born, a time toC die, a time toG plant, a time toC reap.

A time toG kill, a time toC heal.

A time toF lauEm gh aF tiG me toC weep.G C

Chorus

To everyC thingF turnEm turnG turn. There is aC seasonF turnEm turnG turn.

AndF a timeEm to everyDm purposeG , underC heaven.G C

Verse 2

A time to buildG up, a time to breakC down, a time toG dance, a time toC mourn.

G A time to cast awayC stones,

A time toF gaEm therDm stoG nes toC gether.G C

Chorus

To everyC thingF turnEm turnG turn. There is aC seasonF turnEm turnG turn.

AndF a timeEm to everyDm purposeG , underC heaven.G C

Verse 3

A time ofG love, a time ofC hate, a time ofG war, a time ofC peace.

G A time you may emC brace,

A time toF reEm frainDm froG m emC bracing.G C

Instrumental

G C F C G

G C F C G

F Em Dm G C G C

G C G C G C

F Em Dm G C G C

Chorus

To everyC thingF turnEm turnG turn. There is aC seasonF turnEm turnG turn.

AndF a timeEm to everyDm purposeG , underC heaven.G C

Verse 4

A time toG gain, a time toC lose, a time toG rend, a time toC sew.

A time forG love, a time forC hate.

A time forF peEm ace IDm swear it'sG not tooC late.G C

Outro

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm C G

C G Em Dm C G C