I've been a diehard Peter , Paul , and Mary fan for 31 years since I was 5 years old watching PP&M's children's concert special for PBS Peter , Paul , and Mommy Too in 1993 . Never once in any public interview or concert have I ever seen Noel Paul Stookey cry . I have always been moved by his song El Salvador . However , while I am aware that The Trio went to El Salvador and Nicaragua, I was completely unaware of this backstory . Seeing Noel get emotional telling this story really makes me appreciate even more what Peter , Paul , and Mary did for 50 years . Their incredible children's music and ability to enchant you , make you smile , make you laugh , and make you singalong with them, while wonderful , was always secondary . Without the seriousness of addressing contemporary concerns , there probably never is a Puff The Magic Dragon or It's Raining , It's Pouring .
