Peter Paul And Mary Puff The Magic Dragon Live
If you grew up in the 60s, you're probably familiar with the folk music trio Peter, Paul and Mary, who were known for their iconic songs like "Blowin' in the Wind" and "Leaving on a Jet Plane." However, one of their most beloved songs is undoubtedly "Puff the Magic Dragon," which has become a timeless classic that continues to enchant generations of children and adults alike.
The Origin of Puff the Magic Dragon
Written by Peter Yarrow and Leonard Lipton, "Puff the Magic Dragon" was first released in 1963, and quickly became a hit among the counterculture crowd due to its whimsical lyrics and catchy melody. The song tells the story of Puff, a friendly dragon who lives by the sea and befriends a young boy named Jackie Paper.
However, despite its popularity, "Puff the Magic Dragon" was controversial from the start, with some critics claiming that it contained hidden drug references. Yarrow and Lipton have always maintained that the song is simply a children's story about the joys of imagination and friendship.
The Live Performance
One of the most memorable performances of "Puff the Magic Dragon" was the one that Peter, Paul and Mary gave at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963. The festival was already a legendary event, having launched the careers of Bob Dylan and Joan Baez, among others.
During their performance, Peter, Paul and Mary were accompanied by a young boy named Noel Paul Stookey, who played the role of Jackie Paper. The crowd was spellbound as they sang along to the familiar lyrics, swaying and clapping along to the beat.
The Legacy of "Puff the Magic Dragon"
Over the years, "Puff the Magic Dragon" has become more than just a song – it's a cultural touchstone that has been referenced in countless movies, TV shows and books. It has been covered by everyone from Neil Diamond to the Muppets, and continues to be a beloved favorite that transcends age and time.
But perhaps the most enduring legacy of "Puff the Magic Dragon" is the message of hope and friendship that it imparts. As Peter, Paul and Mary sing in the chorus:
Puff, the magic dragon, lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee.
Little Jackie Paper loved that rascal Puff
And brought him strings and sealing wax and other fancy stuff.
These words remind us that even in a world that can seem cruel and unforgiving, there is still magic to be found in the joys of friendship and imagination.
Conclusion
In conclusion, "Puff the Magic Dragon" is more than just a song – it's a symbol of a bygone era, when music was a force for change and hope. Peter, Paul and Mary's live performance of the song at the Newport Folk Festival in 1963 remains a defining moment in music history, and continues to inspire generations of fans to this day.