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Peter Yarrow, the legendary folk musician and activist who helped define the American folk music revival as one-third of Peter, Paul and Mary, died on January 7, 2025, at his New York City home. His death from bladder cancer at age 86 marks the end of an era in American folk music history.
"Our fearless dragon is tired and has entered the last chapter of his magnificent life," his daughter Bethany shared in a poignant announcement. The reference to "dragon" alludes to one of the group's most beloved hits, "Puff, the Magic Dragon," which Yarrow co-wrote based on a Leonard Lipton poem.
Peter, Paul and Mary's impact on American music was profound. Their 1962 debut album topped the Billboard charts for seven weeks, launching a string of successful releases that included six Top 10 hits. The trio's rendition of Bob Dylan's "Blowin' in the Wind" became an anthem of the civil rights movement, which they performed at the historic 1963 March on Washington alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Former bandmate Paul Stookey reflected on their deep bond: "Being an only child, growing up without siblings may have afforded me the full attention of my parents, but with the formation of Peter, Paul and Mary, I suddenly had a brother named Peter Yarrow. He was best man at my wedding and I at his."
Beyond music, Yarrow's commitment to social justice remained unwavering throughout his life. He organized significant anti-Vietnam War protests, including a 1969 march that drew half a million people to Washington, D.C. In later years, he founded Operation Respect, an anti-bullying nonprofit, and the Save One Child fund, providing free medical treatment to children in need.
"People can overcome their differences, and when united, move toward a world of greater fairness and justice," Yarrow once said, embodying his lifelong philosophy. "As in folk music, each person has a unique role to play."
The group's influence extended beyond their initial 1960s success. Though they separated in 1970, they later reunited and continued performing until Mary Travers' death in 2009. Their catalog includes timeless recordings of "If I Had a Hammer," "Leaving on a Jet Plane," and "Day is Done," earning them five Grammy Awards and a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Songwriters Hall of Fame.
"The world knows Peter Yarrow the iconic folk activist, but the human being behind the legend is every bit as generous, creative, passionate, playful, and wise as his lyrics suggest."
