Peter Yarrow, Paul Stookey, and Mary Travers were a famous American folk music group formed in 1961 in New York City.
They gained immense popularity in the 1960s for their beautiful harmonies and songs that promoted peace, love, and social justice. Some of their best-known songs are “Puff, the Magic Dragon,” “If I Had a Hammer,” “Blowin’ in the Wind,” and “Leaving on a Jet Plane”.
They often sang about important issues, such as civil rights and the Vietnam War. Their music helped make folk music popular and inspired many people around the world.
About the Song
Puff, the Magic Dragon is a timeless folk song known for its gentle melody and storybook lyrics, telling a heartfelt tale of a boy’s friendship with a dragon.
Though it may sound like a simple children’s lullaby, the song holds a deeper meaning about growing up and leaving behind the magic of childhood. Its emotional depth and long-lasting charm have made it a beloved classic for generations.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Released | January 15, 1963 |
| Album | Moving (1963) |
| Writers | Peter Yarrow & Leonard Lipton |
| Producer | Albert Grossman |
Puff, The Magic Dragon– Full Lyrics
Verse 1
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
Chorus
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Verse 2
Together they would travel on a boat with billowed sail
Jackie kept a lookout, perched on Puff’s gigantic tail
Noble kings and princes would bow whene’er they came
Pirate ships would lower their flags when Puff roared out his name
Chorus
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Verse 3
A dragon lives forever, but not so, little boys
Painted wings and giants’ rings make way for other toys
One grey night it happened, Jackie Paper came no more
And Puff, that mighty dragon, he ceased his fearless roar
Verse 4
His head was bent in sorrow, green scales fell like rain
Puff no longer went to play along the cherry lane
Without his lifelong friend, Puff could not be brave
So Puff, that mighty dragon sadly slipped into his cave
Chorus
Oh, Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Puff, the magic dragon lived by the sea
And frolicked in the autumn mist in a land called Honalee
Similar Songs Like Puff, The Magic Dragon
The following songs showcase the similar emotions and tone that Puff, the Magic Dragon gives:
- Rainbow Connection: With its tender melody and hopeful lyrics, this Kermit the Frog ballad holds the wonder of dreams and the longing for something magical and unseen.
- Danny’s Song: Sung by Anne Murray, this heartfelt tune celebrates love, family, and simple joys, delivering emotional sincerity with every word.
- Blowin’ in the Wind: This folk anthem poses timeless questions about peace and freedom, set to a soft, melodic flow.
- Where Have All the Flowers Gone: This thoughtful folk tune by Pete Seeger shows the cycles of life and loss, combining simplicity with deep meaning.
Similar Artists Like Peter, Paul, and Mary
Folk artists who touched audiences with soulful lyrics, beautiful harmonies, and a lasting impact on folk music:
- Joan Baez
Genre: Folk, Folk Rock
Top Albums: Joan Baez (1960), Diamonds & Rust (1975) - Simon & Garfunkel
Genre: Folk Rock
Top Albums: Bridge Over Troubled Water (1970), Sounds of Silence (1966) - The Kingston Trio
Genre: Folk
Top Albums: The Kingston Trio (1958), At Large (1959) - Judy Collins
Genre: Folk, Pop
Top Albums: Wildflowers (1967), Who Knows Where the Time Goes (1968)
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Members of Peter, Paul, and Mary Still Alive?
Mary Travers passed away in 2009, Peter Yarrow died in 2025, and Paul Stookey is still alive.
Did the Group Peter, Paul, and Mary Write Their Own Songs?
They performed a mix of original songs and covers from other folk artists like Bob Dylan and John Denver.
Did the Group Peter, Paul, and Mary Ever Break Up?
Yes, they disbanded in 197,0 but reunited several times for tours and special performances.
