Peter, Paul and Mary

Peter, Paul and Mary were an American folk trio formed in New York City in 1961, consisting of Peter Yarrow, Noel Paul Stookey, and Mary Travers. Brought together at the height of the folk revival, the group became one of the era’s most commercially successful acts, known for close vocal harmonies and a warm, accessible sound that introduced many listeners to folk music and to songwriters who were not yet widely known.

The trio built its reputation on both original material and interpretations of other artists’ work, most famously helping popularize songs by Bob Dylan and Pete Seeger. Their recording of «Blowin’ in the Wind» became a landmark cover, while «If I Had a Hammer» and «Where Have All the Flowers Gone» tied them closely to the folk tradition of socially conscious songwriting. Their own compositions and interpretations, including the children’s favorite «Puff, the Magic Dragon» and John Denver’s «Leaving on a Jet Plane», showed their range beyond protest music.

Beyond their chart success, Peter, Paul and Mary were closely associated with the American folk revival and the civil rights and anti-war movements of the 1960s, performing at major rallies including the 1963 March on Washington. The group disbanded in 1970, with each member pursuing solo work, before periodically reuniting. Mary Travers died in 2009 and Peter Yarrow in 2025; Noel Paul Stookey continues to perform.