Yusuf Islam aka Cat Stevens
Cat Stevens was one of my favorite singers in the early 70s. He still is today. I think I have three, maybe four of his vinyl albums, and of course, a greatest hits CD!
He converted to Islam at the end of 1977, and changed his name to Yusuf Islam the next year. Today he goes by the single name, Yusuf -- which means Joseph in the Arabic language.
In 1979 he left his music career behind and auctioned all his guitars for charity. He then devoted himself to educational and humanitarian causes and has received several awards for his work in promoting world peace. In 2006 he returned to the recording world with the release of his first album in twenty-eight years, entitled An Other Cup. I, of course, have the CD.
I found these two interviews with Yusuf about his musical journey and his life. They are beautifully done and have many of the songs on An Other Cup, as well as some well-know Cat Stevens songs, as the background music.
Part One
Part Two
Because this is from the official Yusuf YouTube channel, I'm not able to upload the video.
But I hope you'll click on the links and listen!
These are some of my favorite Cat Stevens songs
"Morning has Broken"
The lyrics in this song are from a hymn published in 1931 with words by poet Eleanor Farjeon
"Wild World"
from the album Tea for the Tillerman
"Peace Train"
this is probably his most famous -- he always used it as his closing number in concerts
recorded in 1971 on the album Teaser and the Firecat
I could go on and on.....
Oh wow! Only one more letter and this session will be over!
Who will be the band for Z? Stay tuned!
♥♥
