Peter, Paul & Mary – Day Is Done

About The Song

“Day Is Done” was written by Peter Yarrow of Peter, Paul and Mary in 1969, inspired by themes of hope and unity during a turbulent era marked by the Vietnam War and social unrest. The song was recorded in early 1969 at A&R Recording Studios in New York City, produced by Albert Grossman and Milton Okun. It was released as a single in April 1969 by Warner Bros. Records, with “Make-Believe Town” as the B-side, and included on the trio’s album Peter, Paul and Mommy, released on May 1, 1969. The track, running 2:38, is a folk-pop song featuring the trio’s signature harmonies, acoustic guitar, and a children’s choir, emphasizing its message of reassurance.

The single entered the Billboard Hot 100 at number 81 on May 3, 1969, peaking at number 21 on June 7, 1969, and remained on the chart for nine weeks. It also reached number 7 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart, reflecting its appeal to a broad audience. Internationally, it peaked at number 14 in Canada on the RPM Top Singles chart and number 22 in Australia. Cash Box described it as a “gentle, uplifting folk ballad” with “soaring harmonies and a heartfelt delivery.” The song’s inclusion on an album aimed at children and families, featuring songs like “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” helped it resonate with diverse listeners.

Background details include Yarrow’s inspiration from his experiences as an anti-war activist. He wrote the song as a lullaby-like anthem to convey optimism amid division, with lyrics suggesting that collective hope could overcome challenges. The recording featured the New York City children’s choir from the Church of the Heavenly Rest, adding a layer of innocence to the track. The song was performed at the 1969 Moratorium to End the War in Vietnam, aligning with the trio’s history of social engagement. Other artists, including Joan Baez (1969) and Nana Mouskouri (1970), covered the song, though Peter, Paul and Mary’s version remained the definitive one. The track was later included in compilations like The Very Best of Peter, Paul and Mary (2005).

Expert commentary includes AllMusic’s Bruce Eder, who praised the song’s “simple yet powerful arrangement” and its role in the trio’s shift toward family-oriented music. Songfacts noted that Yarrow considered it a personal favorite, reflecting his belief in music’s unifying potential. American Songwriter highlighted its understated production, which allowed the message to shine. No major controversies surrounded the song, though its hopeful tone contrasted with the era’s political tensions, prompting some debate among folk purists about its commercial leanings. Its use in a 1970s PBS special on folk music and a 1990s episode of Sesame Street underscores its lasting appeal as a family-friendly anthem.

Video

Lyric

Tell me why you’re crying, my son
I know you’re frightened, like everyone
Is it the thunder in the distance you fear?
Will it help if I stay very near?
I am here

And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
Day is done, day is done, day is done, day is done

Do you ask why I’m sighing, my son?
You shall inherit what mankind has done
In a world filled with sorrow and woe
If you ask me why this is so
I really don’t know

And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
Day is done, day is done, day is done, day is done

Tell me why you’re smiling, my son
Is there a secret you can tell everyone?
Do you know more than men that are wise?
Can you see what we all must disguise
Through your loving eyes?

And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
And if you take my hand, my son
All will be well when the day is done
Day is done, day is done, day is done, day is done