The Radio Station That Played Only Peter, Paul And Mary Songs On The Day Mary Travers Passed Away

April 2, 2025

On a crisp September morning in 2009, the world awakened to heartbreaking news: Mary Travers, the beloved member of the folk trio Peter, Paul and Mary, had passed away. As the sun rose over the small town of Camden, New Jersey, the local radio station, WNJD, decided to pay tribute to the legendary singer and her enduring legacy. With a simple yet powerful idea, the station’s DJ, a devoted fan named Jake, announced that they would play only Peter, Paul and Mary songs for the entire day. It was a bold move, but Jake believed that music had the power to heal and bring people together.

As the first chords of “Puff, the Magic Dragon” filled the airwaves, listeners began to call in, sharing their memories connected to the music of Peter, Paul and Mary. Some recalled singing along to their songs during family road trips, while others spoke of how the group’s melodies had been a source of comfort during difficult times. The soothing harmonies and heartfelt lyrics created an atmosphere of nostalgia, wrapping the community in a warm embrace, reminding everyone of the love and unity that music could inspire. People stopped by the station, eager to share their stories, and soon the station transformed into a gathering place of sorts, where fans bonded over their shared admiration for Mary and her gifted voice.

As the day went on, every song played felt like a tribute not just to Mary, but to the entire spirit of the folk movement they had helped to revive in the 1960s. Her passion for music had brought significant social change, as she and her bandmates often used their platform to advocate for peace and equality. With every note, they sparked hope and inspired generations to stand up for what they believed in. The more people listened, the more they realized that Mary’s influence still resonated deeply, illustrating the timelessness of her artistry.

Through the airwaves filled with harmonies, the listeners discovered that the legacy of Peter, Paul and Mary would never fade. Their songs, like “Blowin’ in the Wind” and “Today,” served not only as reminders of Mary’s remarkable talent but also of the commitment she had to using her music for a greater purpose. Some listeners even took it upon themselves to organize local sing-alongs, each person taking turns leading their favorite songs. In that moment, the community was not just mourning the loss of a great artist; they were celebrating her life and the meaning she had woven into their own lives through her music.

As dusk settled over Camden, WNJD wrapped up its tribute with one final song, “Leaving on a Jet Plane.” The poignant lyrics echoed, reminding everyone that while Mary may have left the world, her voice would forever linger in their hearts. Listeners took to social media, sharing pictures, quotes, and stories, creating a vibrant tapestry of memories. The sadness of her passing turned into a celebration of life, illuminating the resilience of music and its ability to bring people together even in the darkest times.

That day at WNJD was more than just an homage to Mary Travers; it was a reminder of the power of music to connect us and to inspire change. Music, like the love and memories it creates, transcends time. As Peter, Paul, and Mary had once shown the world, when we come together in harmony—whether in joy or sorrow—we create a beautiful melody that can touch countless lives. And in that spirit, Mary’s voice continued to live on, echoing in the hearts of everyone who had ever been moved by her songs.