The world has lost a true folk music icon. Peter Yarrow, one-third of the legendary trio Peter, Paul and Mary, passed away at the age of 86 after a prolonged battle with bladder cancer. The singer, songwriter, and political activist left behind a rich legacy of music and advocacy that touched the lives of millions. His representative confirmed the news to Entertainment Weekly, stating that Yarrow died on the morning of January 6 in New York City.
Peter Yarrow’s daughter, Bethany Yarrow, expressed her heartfelt sentiments in a statement to Entertainment Weekly, beautifully capturing the essence of her father’s spirit:
“Our fearless dragon is turned and has entered the last chapter of his magnificent life.”
The reference to “dragon” undoubtedly evokes memories of one of Yarrow’s most beloved creations, Puff, the Magic Dragon, a song he co-wrote that became a cultural touchstone for generations of children and families.
A Storied Career in Folk Music
Peter Yarrow was born on May 31, 1938, and grew up in New York City. From an early age, he displayed an affinity for music and performance. His career began in the vibrant folk clubs of New York, where he quickly earned recognition. However, Yarrow’s life would take a pivotal turn in 1960 when he crossed paths with Albert Grossman at the Newport Folk Festival. Grossman, who became his manager, introduced him to Mary Travers and later Paul Stookey. The trio formed Peter, Paul and Mary, a group destined to shape the folk music scene of the 1960s.
By 1961, Peter, Paul and Mary had signed with Warner Brothers, and their performances became legendary. Their cover of If I Had a Hammer (The Hammer Song) by Pete Seeger reached the Billboard Top 10 in 1962, propelling them to stardom. Their first self-titled album held a spot in the US Top 10 for an astonishing 10 months and remained in the Top 20 for two years.
In 1963, the trio reached new heights with their rendition of Bob Dylan’s Blowin’ in the Wind, solidifying their place in the pantheon of folk legends. Puff, the Magic Dragon also debuted that same year, further cementing Yarrow’s reputation as a gifted songwriter with the ability to craft music that resonated across all age groups.
Their final hit came in 1969 with a cover of John Denver’s Leaving on a Jet Plane, before the group disbanded in 1970.
A Life of Highs and Lows
Despite the success, Peter Yarrow’s personal life was not without controversy. In 1970, he was convicted for taking indecent liberties with a 14-year-old girl. Yarrow served three months in jail and was later pardoned by President Jimmy Carter in 1981. The incident left a mark on his personal life, but Yarrow continued to perform and contribute to music and social causes.
Following the trio’s split, Peter, Paul and Mary reunited in 1978 and continued performing together until Mary Travers’ passing in 2009. Yarrow and Stookey maintained their musical partnership, appearing on stages worldwide and keeping the legacy of the group alive.
The Man Behind the Music
Beyond the spotlight, Peter Yarrow was known as a passionate activist and humanitarian. He co-founded Operation Respect, a non-profit dedicated to promoting anti-bullying and conflict resolution programs in schools. His advocacy for peace, civil rights, and environmental causes was as integral to his identity as his music.
Yarrow’s net worth at the time of his passing was estimated to be around $5 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. Although not as financially prominent as some contemporaries, his wealth lay in the hearts he touched and the movements he supported.
Peter Yarrow leaves behind his daughter Bethany, who has followed in his footsteps as a musician and activist. His wife, Mary Beth McCarthy, and extended family members continue to honor his memory.
A Farewell from His Closest Friend
Paul Stookey, the last surviving member of Peter, Paul and Mary, remembered his lifelong friend and bandmate in a moving tribute. In his message to Entertainment Weekly, Stookey reflected on their bond:
“He was best man at my wedding and I at his. He was loving ‘uncle’ to my three daughters… our different perspectives were celebrated often in our friendship and our music.”
The brotherhood shared between the two musicians transcended their careers and became an inseparable part of their lives.
A Legacy That Lives On
Bethany Yarrow encouraged fans to honor her father’s memory by contributing to Operation Respect instead of sending flowers. The organization stands as a testament to Peter Yarrow’s lifelong dedication to fostering a kinder, more inclusive world.
As we bid farewell to Peter Yarrow, we remember not only his contributions to folk music but also his unwavering belief in justice, love, and compassion. His voice may have been silenced, but his songs will continue to inspire future generations.
Rest in peace, Peter Yarrow. Your music and message will forever echo in the hearts of those who believe in the power of song to change the world.
