RIP Mary Travers

There’s nothing that can draw me to a song faster than hearing some great harmony.

Peter Yarrow, Noel Paul Stookey, and Mary Travers – collectively as Peter, Paul & Mary – were among the artists who could hook me in a heartbeat. As I was growing up, Peter, Paul & Mary was a group that I regarded as having the highest standard of harmony. After all, it was usually the three of them singing together with just a soft guitar. Unlike a lot of groups you hear - both current and past - all three of Peter, Paul & Mary’s voices were prominent throughout the song. Many times they’d each sing a verse and they’d all sing the chorus together.

Peter, Paul & Mary’s music was loved by all ages. That’s very rare in the history of music. However, their music wasn’t fluffy. Many of the songs they sang served as anthems for different causes – “If I had a hammer”, “blowin’ in the wind”, etc. They were also known for their political activism, and performing at rallies.

Tonight, I was saddened to hear of the passing of Mary Travers at age 72. She finally lost her battle with leukemia.

“Don’t let the light go out! Let it shine through our love and our tears.”