The Tragic Story Of Cat Stevens

Outcast, alienated, and almost literally lost at sea before being outcast again, here are a few tragic things about Cat Stevens that you may not know.
#CatStevens #Singer #Folkrock
Oh Very Young | 0:00
The First Cut is the Deepest | 1:19
New Masters | 2:37
Trouble | 3:53
Lady D'Arbanville | 5:14
Foreigner | 6:15
Angelsea | 7:38
A is for Allah | 8:34
Father and Son | 9:41
Tell 'Em I'm Gone | 10:35
Read full article: www.grunge.com/1220559/the-tr...

[@GrungeHQ]

What is your favorite song by Cat Stevens?

[@kathyhollenbach7413]

Moonshadow

[@oleander4870]

Lady D'Arbanville

[@bobert8618]

Matthew and Son

[@christineparis5607]

"Trouble". I fell in love with Cat when I was a teen in Palo Alto in the 60s/70s and saw the movie, "Harold and Maude", that was filmed around my home. There is just such a great feeling about it. I read that the song, Trouble, was written when he went through TB in the hospital. It's really a hopeless song, but still, you know he is not giving up...

[@pakababy3710]

Hard to choose... but On the Road to Find Out is the most profound for me.

[@robertbrown5319]

I wouldn't call Cat Stevens' life tragic. Everyone has their ups and downs. He's had more ups in his life than most people.

[@jramsey9690]

Clickbait.

[@penboyasgod6103]

[@BusterTucker]

I agree with the word tragic however after looking the word up it has many different meanings like sorrow, painful but also fatal. Either way I'm 9 years younger and grew up loving his music and Cat's tragedy really turned triumphant! So everyone really needs to 'come along and jump on the peace train'😻

[@MrYorickJenkins]

I would call it tragic. Abandoning his art in the name of superstition

[@donaldwilliamfry]

He signed on with Satan when he signed on with Islam. He put an exclamation point on that when he backed the most rabid forms of Islam. Hell is tragic, and he bought it.

[@28105wsking]

Cat Steven's life is hardly tragic! Its wonderful!

[@Gozzillacia]

Even the bit about calling for the murder of Salman Rushdie on the order of the Islamo-fascist dictator of Iran? Which he did though he lies about it now.

[@LizzieLane777]

he was inspired ... never tragic ... just a rare and beautiful talent

[@Batureok]

He’s a very SUCCESSFUL MAN in this world and hereafter ❤❤❤❤❤

[@PixelatedExistence]

This world yes, ...but the hereafter? Nobody can make such a statement, as nobody knows what happens at death, neither you nor anyone else. They can believe all they want, have faith all they want, but the real fact remains NOBODY knows if we survive death..NOBODY!.....The real truth and painful to accept, is Probably not!

[@followerakhirat]

Ameen

[@tuand3094]

Cat Stevens is enjoying inner spiritual peace and harmony which money can't buy.

[@cosmicaudio4589]

Islam does not bring peace of any kind, it is a murderous blood cult! And anyone finding peace in that is in league with Satan!

[@norizanhassan3041]

100 % agree !

[@skidancin]

Given that he lies about what he has said I highly doubt that

[@gerhelwinters1967]

The song Father & Son gave my son & I A bond I can't explain but before he died, of cancer & being paralyzed for 3 years from the wast down, we would have tears in our eyes every time it played but we had to play it every time we saw the song listed! God bless you son, I miss you. 10/1/21 he was 34.

[@samuelinayat-chisti4176]

I am deeply deeply moved by your contribution here, thank you for sharing. May God fill you with the comfort of that sacred bond and precious memory of (and memories with) your son.

[@anthonypaluck5236]

One of my favorite Cat Stevens songs. Bless you and your wonderful memories.

[@JeanetteFaith]

May God Bless You.

[@Parallax982]

I'm so sorry, my friend. How kind of you to share the beautiful memories.

[@samuelinayat-chisti4176]

@@Parallax982Ditto that. And how sweet your response.

[@nancycoplin7829]

I am 72 yrs old, and Cat Stevens’ music was a huge part of my youth. I was somewhat introverted, very much into art and painting; he, Joni Mitchell, and Sir Neville Marriner and the Academy Of St. Martin in the Fields Chamber Orchestra got me through what a lot of people might call a “tragic period” in my life. His music was so personal; at times I felt that he was confiding in me or sharing some deep wisdom like a cherished family member. His work with Harold and Maude turned that little cult film into something iconic. When he left mainstream music I was crushed, but I understood that it wasn’t personal…it seemed like it was something he needed to do save his soul. At least we had a lot of music to get us through. If there were tragic elements to his life, I would say that they were just part of the process of him being true to himself, look at his life now!!

[@DenisKhomeini-bo8rd]

Joni Mitchell stole a note book of my compositions from me while we were on the same jet traveling through America with some other famous people in the music industry, she is a liar and a theif and I hate her. I had 2 young sons with me and the jet was spewing jet fuel since it was not in the best shape 😮😅😢ut she told me to shutup😮and get over it since she did not care about me and my little boys,she said if I was so concerned 😢about their health I should have left them at home,but it was 😮not just their health I was looking out for but the health of everyone on the jet since it was old😢 and leaking oil over the jet and everyone else 😮on it. She also stole my note book with over 150 songs that I had written in it😢 .She is a theif and plagerist as she stole my music and sold them to her friends and I can prove this to be true,why would I lie about such a serious accusation, my name is Michelle Devereaux, Denis Khomeini,Leigh Phillippe ,Izrael Stein ,Azziz Sadat, Alia Talall of Jordan, Moses David Izrael lyricalEinstein-Leibermann.The bitch refused to put out a cigarette one after the other since she said she was the star and it was her jet do she told me to shut up and get off the jet I I didn't like it 😮bshe is mentally ill and a selfish bitch as well!

[@garypaquin6300]

Nancy, I am right there with you. Tea for the Tillerman was my companion through some very tumultuous times. And, a faithful companion at that.

[@ellicooper2323]

Nancy, you could be writing for me. I’m 75 now and my heart still beats hard with each and every song.

[@PolferiferusII]

@@garypaquin6300 Every song on TftT is a lovely gem. One of my all time favorites. My brother got the album when I was 8 in 1973, along with Leonard Cohen's first album. I have fond memories of that time, as we played them both a lot. I love both of their singing voices as they are both very unusual and unusually frank.

[@soniaalvarez1584]

I grew up listening to all his songs and I had all his albums. Many of his songs got me through a difficult teenagehood.

[@adamfindlay7091]

There is no tragedy he is a TRUE artist period.

[@skidancin]

He is a true artist I've loved, but his support for killing Rushdie was very clear and real; his excuses are false and should be apologies instead. There is the tragic rub.

[@adamfindlay7091]

@@skidancin Oh.

[@KBT1951]

I've never thought of Cat Stevens life as tragic.

[@gadaffi1000]

He is tragic. He is a cvnt.

[@maryadelin]

terribly tragic..... he's a lost soul...sold it to the devil...literally

[@The88Nomad]

@@maryadelin You're a racist. And we know why. If he turned Bhuddist and literally worshipped the devil you wouldn'y have a problem, at all.

[@chargersina]

@@maryadelin he has religion and believes in god but You might go to hell for judging him.

[@humpy936]

Right, more like pathetic.

[@happykt]

His life has not been tragic but a reflection of his own choices.

[@James_Bowie]

Exactly. Takes himself far too seriously.

[@harriettemacy7399]

True!

[@muddywaters538]

Exactly

[@patricias5122]

Calling for an artist like Salman Rushdie to be killed, over the Satanic Verses. Cat Stevens is a sicko.

[@aussiefan354]

Spot on

[@normanleach5427]

I was in a bar in the '70s and he was on tv...no one talked. The place just setted into the magic of the moment, as we all seemed to allow ourselves to connect with and be transorted by a deeper emotional maturity. The movie 'Harold and Maude' features his soundtrack...and may also bring you home.

[@rwjack]

So many to choose from, but maybe Father and Son is my favorite because it strikes to my heart. He was/is phenomenal regardless

[@tracygeddes5867]

I heard a speech he gave to his fellow muslims, advising them that they should not associate with non muslims. He stated, “You can not have a friend who is not a Muslim.” His comments suggesting he was never divisive are without merit

[@ladyrose3285]

And he refuses to get interviewed with any female reporter or interviewer.

[@maryadelin]

this is why they convert ppl in prison...and radicalize them into hatred and a death cult...its actually scary.

[@markelmslie6832]

Muhammad's god is Satan! Stevens worshiped Satan and didn't even know it!

[@sanders7789]

Little wonder he’s now a nobody - his life and political ideologies made those who may have helped him desperate to distance themselves instead. These days he’s simply remembered for being bat crazy. Shame really

[@atomatoface]

He has evolved. In a lot of circumstances he’s admitted he has misunderstood a lot. That’s why he came back to his music.

[@andrewlai9472]

I love Cat Steven songs since my teens. His life is not tragic. He chose to live his life the way he wanted and not manipulated by others. I still enjoy his simple beautifully crafted lyrics and music. He had the courage to do what he wanted against mainstream opinions. I wish him well.

[@4gsl]

I pray God saves him from his current satanic death cult.

[@seltaeb3302]

He needs to reread the K-oran & see the violence & repression it espouses. If you are a woman you have no rights. A religion that cannot change & never will.

[@mygoogleno1but188]

Nice comment

[@mohammedalmaamari4333]

Andrew Lai: Honest Comments

[@harriettemacy7399]

Exactly Right! Nothing Tragic about it. This channel is all about victimhood. I am sure Cat...or whatever he calls himself these days would not approve of this pathetic demoralization and degradation of his amazing, wonderful, soulful legacy

[@AminaAbs]

We all love Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam and his songwriting. So deep, so lovely

[@ruthlewis6678]

My brother told me this: Traffic jam in Denver, Colorado. Bro was stuck under an overpass along with many others. People were getting a little crancky, horn blowing and shouting. One car, a top down convertable, had a super-duper sound system. The driver started playing Cat Stevens album full blast. Turned into a dance party. Every one had a great time.

[@velocitygirl8551]

When he called to kill Salman Rushdie on the news and said he’d do it himself if he crossed paths with him my heart broke man.

[@karenkershaw6324]

@@patriciapowell6047 Funny how there is always an excuse when they are called out. He did say it. As a Muslim he could not go against the faith.

[@SeamusMcGillicuddy0]

He needed a laryngectomy back when he started performing 🤮

[@hans-joachimbierwirth4727]

@@patriciapowell6047 He did!

[@johngreystone]

@@patriciapowell6047 yes he did

[@crystalship9900]

@@patriciapowell6047 Stop lying, liar 🤥

[@trishsteveyoung9668]

I was honoured to introduce Cat Stevens at the Marquee Club in London in 1967. He was a quiet and humble guy who sat on a stool on the stage with only his guitar and sang his heart out for the audience. A memory I will hold close for many, many years.

[@jeffreywalton5208]

he. performed at the. last free concert at Hyde Park in 1968, not far from the Markquis Club where I heard Jethro Tull the nite before. Both performances were unforgettable and a true delight.

[@NCLUSA]

He's now on a NO FLY LIST, think about that.

[@lewiskunta9869]

​@@NCLUSA😂😂😂😂😂

[@juanrosales7353]

Thanks God you are still alive and with a desire to live.

[@patkennedy2620]

What a wonderful memory to have of Cat Stephens.

[@safirahmad8262]

You can never buy inner peace and harmony. Inner peace only comes through remembrance of The Creator of the Universe, The One God.

[@dianawoods6991]

I think he is one of the best song writers and a great humanitarian of our times. Don't believe the press there nuts and liars. God bless you Yusuf and of course Cat. ❤

[@ahmadly1634]

Tragic, you said ? On the contrary, his lifestyle inspired millions of people ! May he remain highly blessed !

[@susanhiggins6488]

What i cant understand is why women leave gorgeous man like Cat Stevens and Brian Ferry for Mick Jagger. Do they need glasses.

[@colmmeade1824]

Yes unusual Mick ant no oil painting

[@danilaroche1156]

Mick is no prize, talented as he is. I really think he's a witch and I'm serious. He put a spell on people.

[@missmayflower]

Cat Stevens talked about being basically asexual while Mick Jagger is quite the opposite.

[@willettej7988]

You don’t understand women. Mick exudes sexuality.

[@firstlast-gr9xs]

No, they need brains ..

[@jannahfirdaws9791]

Not tragic but blessed. He has had a blessed life

[@tomshop8943]

Surah Al Hajj 46 Have they not travelled throughout the land so their hearts may reason, and their ears may listen? Indeed, it is not the eyes that are blind, but it is the hearts in the chests that grow blind.

[@sallyjones4486]

Sometimes it's best to not know about an artist's personal life when you enjoy their music.

[@draganpastrovic2157]

That is it, I grew up with Pink Floyd and a lot of other great bands and artists and the less I knew the better, even knowing how they played what notes they played seemed to ruin the magic of music, at least for me. I played his song the other day and people were all going on about ohh how he converted to islam, well I don't fckn care what hes done.

[@ENGABU1]

I don't see what was tragic about his personal life...seems like he is very well rounded

[@daveculpin9225]

Totally agree, how true this is.

[@gadaffi1000]

@@draganpastrovic2157 He can convert to what he likes but demanding the death of an author and offering to slaughter him himself is taking it a bit far, no? Or is that the American way these days?

[@devonbradley4372]

Well said! They also say 'never meet your heroes'. I guess everyone has 'feet of clay'.

[@marilynsmith8054]

I love him singing Morning is Broken. Had is played at my mother’s funeral. ❤

[@blueforest2927]

Thats such a beautiful song, all the best to your healing, much love

[@slaphead8835]

I think "Morning Has Broken" may be his best piece of work. A beautiful composition.

[@colinbakewell9372]

I did the same for my dear mothers funeral also. Now every time I hear the song. I remember her with love and emotion.

[@kathrynpassmore5425]

My mom’s funeral too!

[@tims.449]

It was written in the early 1900s by Eleanor Farjeon. The God in it is the Christian God.

[@joesanders6898]

I love his music, and his dedication to his beliefs.

[@peterpiper487]

My absolute favorite from Cat Stevens is 'Morning Has Broken'..... far and above any of his other works.

[@suraya1224]

I think a woman wrote the lyrics, not him.

[@DMD5609]

A Scot traditional song, later lyrics were added by Eleanor Farjeon as a Christian hymn. Stevens only did a cover of it with his soulful voice. BTW, Cat Stevens's parents were Melkite Christians but their son moved to the other religion.

[@rienne352]

He didn’t write that song but did sing it beautifully

[@uzairibnuri8017]

I went to one of his concerts in the early 70s in Los Angeles. I remember the entire stage floor was laid out in flowers (maybe chrysanthemums). He wore a type of flowing cotton, as did his back up singers. It was magic. Fast forward to I think 1997 or 1998 I was working for British Airways in Cape Town, South Africa. He had been there on a trip and had this entourage of South African Muslim clerics surrounding him. I think there was an issue with his seat. He came to the counter for assistance. He was rude and sarcastic with me. I was absolutely shocked. As he walked away, one of the clerics said to me " do you realise who he is?". My reply was, "It doesn't matter who he is. No one needs to treat another person in such a manner. " And although I have aways loved his music and style, and have no hard feelings on the incident, I will always have that vision of his face speaking to me unkindly to make me inferior 😔.

[@robertnewell5057]

Sorry for you, That sounds like him

[@jamesrecknor6752]

Qur'an sura 9 joins the chat

[@Waitingformarty]

That sounds a sad incident. You answered the cleric well

[@deannacousin2339]

😪

[@rienne352]

Wow.

[@MrYorickJenkins]

Thank you for this. I was very sad that Cat Stevens converted to Islam but his music remains. "How can I tell you" is for me one of the most soulful, true and delightful love songs of all time.

[@adnanrehman8039]

Legend. Alhumdolillah saw the light. Most great people that are sincere do

[@takiyaazrin7562]

Iran Enforced 10 Stupid Laws 1. Women are not allowed to show their hair 2. Women are not allowed to sing 3. Women are not allowed to dance 4. Women are not allowed to divorce 5. Women are not allowed to enter stadium 6. Women are not allowed to ride motorbike 7. Women are not allowed to go overseas alone 8. Women are not allowed to join military 9. Women are not allowed to become a witness 10. Women are not allowed to become a judge

[@n.a.1397]

What tragedy? He's had a fulfilling and blessed life.

[@justmyopinion3450]

He said music is a luxury. No, it's not. It is a necessity and a deep well of joy.

[@ranisrikumar5735]

Maybe he meant the other side

[@billhampton7395]

perhaps it's just your opinion. On the other hand, my opinions are based on facts -- facts that I generate and vouch for. So there.

[@karimaisgorgeous]

He did come back to music later; he was convinced of its value (again) by the Bosnian Muslims' wonderful music.

[@gadaffi1000]

Best comment here....in my opinion.

[@austindarrenor]

Consider how many thousands of years people lived without music. Though more recently if you were lucky there were occasions where you might see a live band play. But for myself living without pre-recorded music would be terrible. Evidence the size of my music collection.

[@slarson231]

Cat Stevens life is not tragic, rather; it reflects a man who lives his life in a way that's best for him. I'm 53, and hearing his voice in song is one of my earliest memories. What a blessing!

[@nexpar7439]

unfortunately a lot of people are sheepishly gullible to the point of comedy.

[@ivok9846]

seems they think word "tragic" sells better, they also have "The Tragic Truth About Frank Sinatra". for guys that had more fun than 10 average people combined...huh....

[@kaminobatto]

My favorite Cat Stevens song is Lady D'Arbanville, and this is the first time I hear the story behind it. It'll never fall on my ears the same way again.

[@richardszyniszewski2791]

Cat Stevens made his choices and he lived by them; this what makes the man

[@PB-dq9gi]

Telling others to murder those who oppose you religious beliefs "makes a man?" God I hope not.

[@trudypegg437]

Just some information, morning has broken is a hymn the words are written by Eleanor Farjion, the tune is from a folk song! It is about the Resurrection .

[@charlesabboud]

I loved Cat Stevens when I was a teenager, and one of my favorite albums is Tea for the Tillerman. The whole album was a hit, but my favorite song was "Hard headed woman"... a song I still listen to today. I'm sad to hear about his health issues, but I'm thankful to him for giving us music which will live forever despite everything else... thank you Cat

[@nickidaisydandelion4044]

I'm sorry to hear he has health issues. I'm sure that has to do with Islam.

[@tomorrowhowever7488]

@@nickidaisydandelion4044 He contracted TB through his drug use long before converting!

[@paulahickman7924]

I had that album. I.loved his version of Morning has Broken . And would play it in the morning. ,( of course ,) A hymn I used to sing at school. Always liked the song The first cut is the deepest. Never knew cat Steven's wrote it.

[@BrendaDrumm]

All ways liked him l liked his song yrs ago I love my dog

[@DaenerysStormborn-cw5ws]

A MAN loves his music, big surprise. Cat Stevens has ALWAYS had patronizing, infantilizing and totally SEXIST views of women that made listening to his music a depressing ordeal. When he joined islam, the religion that currently degrades & abuses women more than any other on Earth, I wasn't the least bit surprised. His music is lovely and I wish I could enjoy it but unfortunately he sings in English & I can understand the words. And I don't tolerate ANY man talking to me like I'm a simpering, stupid CHILD.

[@user-pf7tf3rf1u]

Cat Stevens lived up to his values. I admire him, his values and music.

[@beehanes8671]

Very interesting story about Cat Stevens.

[@TomBTerrific]

I loved and sang his songs as a young boy in high school. Unfortunately life is about choices and we all make our beds. So it goes with Cat. I was always taught that you’re judged by the people you hang around with.

[@williamhart4911]

“…he hasn't been Cat Stevens for a long time, you know. He's a different guy now.” (Salman Rushdie) I heard Stevens on the Australian ABC's Geoffrey Robertson's "Hypotheticals". He was not joking about killing Rushdie, as he now claims.

[@Kryojenix]

Salman's a bit of narcissistic jerk, though.

[@royfrench-qz8zo]

i just posted about that. the guy is now sick in the head. it ruined my memories of listening to his music as a young teenager. he cannot back track from his statements.

[@jenA9026]

Yes, I saw it at the time too. And he has never walked back from those comments, nor has he apologised to Salman Rushdie. Loved the music of Cat Stevens. I assumed he was being a 'boots and all' convert, but still ... Rushdie experienced real consequences when really ... just don't read the book!!

[@Hy-Brasil]

thats the problem with islam... a good muslim is not a peaceful humanitarian. their own holy book is evidence to that. all one must do is read it. in fact, it's a cult, maybe one of the oldest.... invented by a jealous camel trader who married rich. he made the rules up as he went. again, all you have to do is study it. but if you're lazy and studying isn't your thing you only need to do a quick yt search for sam shamoun. he quickly breaks it down that muslims are fleeing in droves once they become aware that their theology is psychotic. that it caters to violent brutes who hate women and exploit children.

[@sazure2]

And worse. The books Japanese translator was murdered and the Italian translator shot. Books stores bombed. Rushdie was placed in safe house (ten years) costing tax payers millions! Rushdie lives in secret now.

[@flashback1123]

I met him in the mid 90s when he was teaching in South Africa. He's just a normal guy.

[@AdamosDad]

I'm so sorry that such a talented man that we all loved, was/is so lost.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

Eternally lost. Very sad.

[@AdamosDad]

@@donaldwilliamfry He which testifieth these things saith, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.◄ Revelation 22:20

[@musamusashi]

Lost to whom? Not to himself, and that is all that matters: staying true to yourself and not being afraid of changing direction when you think it's time, not worrying about what people will think or say. That's a courage very few people have.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

@@musamusashi Lost eternally. Without the savior, we will be convicted by a just God. The penalty of sin is eternal death. Jesus paid that debt for us, if we receive it. Unfortunately, Cat rejected it and must stand alone.

[@musamusashi]

@@donaldwilliamfry we will see about that, when the time comes. To you your way, to us our.

[@kixigvak]

I was a reporter in the war in the former Yugoslavia. At one point Yusuf Islam appeared to meet with Bosnian Muslims involved in the fighting. Somebody passed him an AK47 and he fired a burst into the air. A photographer from one of the British tabloids said "Now sing Peace Train!" At that Brother Yusuf stomped off in a huff.

[@matildabryant8398]

I saw him in the early 1970’s in Knoxville, TN. At some point during his performance someone near the front did something that made him mad. He stopped in the middle of the song and reprimanded whoever did whatever then finished the song and walked off stage. It was so disappointing that it colored my opinion of him. He punished everyone.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

He's always been a jerk.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

@@shakimabasan3344 I don't know why you like me, but thanks!

[@sazure2]

@@TheRealDrJoey Well "The Jerk" has given his time, money and notoriety in charity work. And write songs about genocide, Tsunami, refugee camps, earthquakes other and donated the money to the specific works. He travels to many such places.

[@TheRealDrJoey]

@@sazure2 And is a vocal supporter of the fatwa against Salmon Rushdie. He is a reprehensible human being.

[@ChiIeboy]

@@sazure2 You are quite the naïve little Leftist.

[@nickiewilson9134]

❤I grew up listening to Cat Steven's and Wild Women was the first,after all these yrs,it's now Father & Son . Happy you followed your dream and continue your own journey. ❤Vancouver Island, B.C.

[@user-zo3jl8md4x]

All I know is his music was beautiful & always brought me great joy & inspiration. So fortunate to have grown up in this magical musical era of gigantic talents pouring out their hearts, rocking through our bones & brains into our souls.

[@jimrabbit96]

Glad the song Trouble was covered here. That is my favorite of his, I've sang along to that one many times in a great deal of feel. I had no idea it was about his TB. A perfect example of the beautiful flower that musical expression can bring us to.

[@sidmac50]

I always like Silent Sunlight, not necessarily as the best, but as a song that was not mainstream and was poetry in it's lyrics...like so many of his songs.

[@freshwater3485]

Cat Stevens is a true legend who wrote some of the most meaningful songs in pop history. His music has helped millions of people around the world to cope with life’s troubles. He’s a once in a lifetime talent that should be cherished.

[@NCLUSA]

He likes terrorist, go figure.

[@miksmith41]

Totally! :)

[@louismcglasson7913]

A true musical genius.

[@hassimbaba8313]

Cat Steven had a blessed life. With Hidaya and barokah one can't ask for more.

[@c.a.t.732]

It's interesting to hear that Stevens had some confusion regarding his sexual identity as a youth. Carly Simon has said that at the time she dated him in the 70s she was aware that he had male as well as female lovers. This makes his current stance in opposition to gay rights rather hypocritical. And he absolutely did support the fatwa against Salman Rushdie, even saying he would have been willing to carry it out himself under the right conditions. His denials all these decades are BS.

[@citetez]

Excellent point on his support of the Rushdie fatwa. Unlike most everyone who claims that he recanted, I actually read his whole statement. The key take away is "too soon". He absolutely did not deny that Rushdie should be killed, he simply weaseled around about the fact in a world that hadn't yet become fully Islamist, it probably wasn't the best thing to do...and blah, blah, blah. There was no acknowledgement that killing for heresy is wrong, just that circumstance didn't as yet support the wisdom of doing it. He's full of shit.

[@c.a.t.732]

@@citetez It's amazing to me that Mr. Islam can continue to deny he ever said those things, when it was all filmed.

[@lornahuddleston1453]

He allowed his new religion to make up his mind for him about his sexuality and marital status.

[@c.a.t.732]

@@lornahuddleston1453 I think that's an excellent observation.

[@c.a.t.732]

@@GrumpX I think you're missing the point. It's not uncommon for people who struggle with their sexuality to convert to a religion which forces them into a choice. It's a way of avoiding the responsibility of working out ones issues. One might call it "Little Richard Syndrome".

[@tamedshrew235]

I loved Cat Stevens back when i was in high school. Just think if he knew that swimming parallel to the shore in a riptide will push you in with the tide we could have had years of good music from him.

[@dthomas9230]

I was going to write the exact same notion my self.

[@sheilacape4794]

Could have??? His music made the 70's!!! One of the best, he's up there with the rest of the best!

[@tamedshrew235]

@@sheilacape4794 i agree his music was great in the 70s before his religious conversion which was prompted by his near drowning experience. Then it became totally unmarketable.

[@bamboo59.52]

Yeah he believed it was God when it was just luck!

[@landtuna3469]

My sis and I, being brand new to the ocean, also got caught in a riptide and also did not know how to escape. Fortunately I depended upon sheer brute force and our combined strength to get back to shore. I certainly would not bestow any of it as a 'miracle' and, even worse, attribute it to a deity.

[@Hypnobunny1]

I love his.songs so beautiful such a lovely soft voice ❤️

[@poppyd517]

I love Cat Stevens and even more Jusuf Islam. The first for being a lovely song writer and for his greek identity as being greek myself, the second for being a muslim as being muslim myself after converting to Islam Alhamdulillah 💚

[@66fitton]

"Father and son". Hands down! ❤

[@artmakerforever3510]

"The first cut is the deepest", beautiful and heart breaking. Love his music and that gorgeous face.

[@jamesjackson7878]

The first cut is the deepest is one of my favourite songs. Also ROD STEWART . CHERYL CROW . Sing there own covers of the first cut is the deepest. If you haven't heard them You should check it out.

[@artmakerforever3510]

I love the covers too. Rod Stewart's voice is perfect for it. There is a great video on KZbin of him singing it live and the audience starts singing before him. His response is priceless. Look for it. "If you want I'll try to love again", kills me every time. Thanks James!

[@CarolJayRobins]

I remember when Linda Ronstadt sang it on TV in a Cat Stevens show.

[@frankshailes3205]

@@jamesjackson7878 Plus PP Arnold's from the 1960s, think it's on Immediate Records. Probably the most famous cover of it.

[@JamesW225]

Great songwriter , great voice

[@cogie54]

I saw Cat in concert in the early 70s at the Shrine in LA. At one point in the concert, the speaker system started malfunctioning and kept beeping during his song. He got so pissed off! I remember I was surprised he was such a hothead because his music was so sweet and mellow!

[@mangot589]

He by that time was getting pretty sick of the whole thing. I was also lucky enough to see him right before he dropped out of sight. I believe 74 at the Universal Amphitheater in LA, and I’m so glad I got to.

[@cynthiasloan3867]

I saw him in Virginia around '72 and he threw a hissy fit in the middle of the concert over flash cameras. To be fair he had asked that they not be used but he threatened to walk off. The music was great though

[@christineparis5607]

A lot of over sensitive and/or nervous people throw fits over small things out of anxiety. Especially artistic persons. They see exactly how they want things to go, and when it doesn't go the way they want it to, they get angry and upset, it has to do with expectations of perfection that can never be. So many artists are surprisingly salty!

[@sazure2]

@@cynthiasloan3867 Flash camera's are annoying! All That light going off when trying to perform. Why banned in theatres!

[@amberskye3478]

I see a man who was constantly searching for meaning in his existence. He finally gave up and settled for a philosophy that does all his choice-making for him. He did call for the death of a man who wrote a book he didn't like - the same quotes are all over the internet, across many sources. He cannot walk back his threats because he is not allowed to, and stay in the good graces of the dominating thought system that now dictates his existence.

[@Gina19876]

Been in love with Cat Stevens all my life.

[@afzaalkhan.m]

One of the very best singer and songwriter in the world Cat Stevans - Yusuf Islam

[@timothyhorner3152]

It’s not tragic it’s self inflicted

[@creel7343]

I've always loved Cat Stevens music

[@paulanthonybridge5741]

Oh, no. Are you also one of them...........converted to islam, lately ???

[@skwervin1]

@@paulanthonybridge5741 Nope...not Islamic...

[@paulanthonybridge5741]

@@skwervin1 yes. Self proclaimed muzzy do not try to deny it you no-brain.

[@paulanthonybridge5741]

@@skwervin1 Do you smell like a muzzy ? Sniff your own arse and find out........

[@blueforest2927]

That was't said, they just said they always liked the music...

[@motherpedar3592]

My favorite singer while I was in University of Detroit Mercy I listened to his song wild wild world and put his poster on the wall. This song still make me cry

[@mashas3566]

Cat Stevens is among the chosen ones...living on the right path

[@pjc87guy]

Pretty sad that someone loved by so many feels so unloved and lonely. The path to loving ourselves is clearly one that is unique to each individual.

[@AlexAlexon3897]

Terror-supporters deserve to feel unloved and lonely.

[@klaus3579]

Thanks for the wise comment. Very uplifting to me and creating hope in me that wisdom in humans is (still) available.

[@tiggero6690]

He FELT unloved and lonely, until he found the right path for him. And then he followed it. You can see by his facial expression that it has brought him joy.

[@paulabailey230]

He has a family, 4 children and 9 grandchildren, what's everyone talking about??? He helps the muslim community in London, his life is full of Good Intention and good deeds

[@sueplacey5358]

His life is full of Islam, a hate mongering violent false religion.@@paulabailey230

[@johnmacdonald-bb2zj]

I fell of a Rock into the sea in UK when I was 12 yrs old ..... I couldn't swim .... but when I was panicking and screaming a big plank of wood came bobbing by me which I grabbed onto and saved my own life .... but I never changed my religion because of it. My God now is a Plank of wood.

[@williamfarmer3841]

Tea for the Tillerman, steak for the Son,. Wine for the Woman who made the rains come. Thank you Mr. Stevens.

[@elchaposexcitingadventures1674]

I keep thinking of all the amazing songs the world lost when Cat Stevens died in 1977.

[@keithwarrington2430]

He's still singing plenty of them bud. and so are plenty of other people, you don't lose songs because the author chooses to change his life.

[@user-jv4zb6zu7w]

@@keithwarrington2430 while he did denounce his music at one point. did he run out of money. music is haram in islam.

[@thandiebrynard7462]

He is and will for ever be my favorite musician. I’m happy he has a good wife and kids that love him

[@gadaffi1000]

Yup. His kids must love their murder-happy pappy.

[@tatiannagibbs5202]

Maybe the title was meant to draw in views.

[@catharinemorais8262]

I always liked Salman Rushdie...intelligent man....use to listen to Cat before he turned muslim...then forgot he existed

[@shaileshmathews4086]

CAT STEVENS :the famous British pop singer. He sang many songs about world peace like" peace train". Later he became ISLAM& changed his name as Usaful Islam. Suddenly he started saying killing of Salman RUSHDE. From Cat stevace to Usaful Islam- was"peace train" to killing. Is it not Tragic??THAT IS RADICAL ISLAM:STAY AWAY FROM IT.

[@paulanthonybridge5741]

Good decision. Muslim twat.

[@2manybooks2littletime25]

​@@shaileshmathews4086 I believe that the spelling of his name is Yusef Islam.

[@moreflamenco]

Salman Rushdiez views on your religion face the facts cat you can't see God whom you Say you love and worship, murdering your neighbour u can see is BULLSHIT 😂

[@ron88303]

Rushdie is intelligent. Likely more intelligent than Cat Stevens. But forgetting Cat Stevens because he turned muslim; that doesn't sound intelligent at all. More like childish.

[@2phyxius]

I'm not English native so I'm confused with the word tragic here. When us military said that the Aaron Bushnel case is tragic I fully understand. I assumed that when Cat Steven suffers this tragic condition, it means that he's now in misery. I google it and found that it's not the case. He seems to be just fine.

[@julietaaboka3285]

His music will be loved for ever, so authentic and human. I often think of him as one lucky soul that found himself. So many of us are still struggling to be in peace with ourselves.

[@Ramblin-Man]

Born as Stephen Demetre Georgiou to a Swedish, Baptist mother and Greek Cypriotic father in London in 1948 (he's 75 tomorrow), he lived a one year (1956-57) with his mum in Gävle, Sweden (the world's most atheist country) in the 60s, before he moved back to live with his father in London, attending Catholic school. Cyprus is divided in a Greek (Orthodox Christian) and a Turkish (Muslim) part since 1974. Who wouldn't be confused under those circumstances? /J, Sweden

[@P.H.888]

Albania was the first atheist country.

[@distantfire6143]

A man gifted with unsurpassed talents, yet seemingly ran in the opposite direction when fighting his demons......

[@atlantic_love]

Yeap, everytime he experienced fortune who ran closest to those who could take it away.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

He didn't fight his demons, he embraced them. Becoming Muslim, especially a Muslim who has signed on for a Wahhabi interpretation of Islam is beyond tragic. He is now an enemy of God and aligned with the Antichrist who is coming. He actually would have done better wasting his life in hedonism.

[@fredranahan8976]

@@donaldwilliamfry

[@fredranahan8976]

great comment...it is how we live this life that determines out permanent home..and he chose to follow a counterfiet...he traded the truth for a lie

[@donaldwilliamfry]

@@fredranahan8976 It is our relationship with Jesus that determines our permanent home.

[@beehanes8671]

Morning Has Broken is my favorite song by Cat Steven’s. Then Peace train, and Moonshadow.

[@nomiddlenamenmn427]

I dedicated Morning Has Broken to my beloved paternal grandmother. I listened to it and cried on the day of her funeral. Because of her, it is a song of joy for me. Thank you.

[@bobbyduke777]

I still listen to Tea for the tillerman. nothing but perfection

[@nanmattingly6402]

I will always love Cat Stevens and his music. I cried when he quit music and converted to Islam, (not because of the religion, but because it would take him out of my life). I love every one of his songs, because they're all so soulful. Love love love to Cat.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

Grieve because of the religion. Islam is, by its very nature, violent and evil. The closer one gets to following the Quran and Hadith, the more violent the religion becomes. In history, it is not the Islamic countries that drew close to there origins that were good world neighbors, it is the ones who wandered from the religion. Islam is poison, and Cat drank the whole bottle.

[@smegma-man-bj2ev]

you need to be disciplined by the islamic fundamentalists stooges that Stevens reveres

[@blackmore4]

I hope you bawled your eyes out when Stevens agreed with and supported Ayatollah Khomeni's death sentence on Salman Rushdie.

[@nanmattingly6402]

@blackmore4 I loved "Cat Stevens", the singer, not his religion. That is his choice, and you can't put ME down because you have your own agenda!!!!

[@kindnessfirst9670]

So your crying had nothing to do with his religious conversion.

[@joesophie90]

No mention of Morning Has Broken, as how I remember him most.

[@willswomble7274]

I bought an early album as a teenager but he has been banned by me for the last fifty years. From his own story, he clearly has always had really serious problems, none dealt with in a good way.

[@stuart8663]

Nicely worded. I agree.

[@patagualianmostly7437]

I was a fan from the start: "I Love My Dog" days..... but when he turned his back on his fans and started campaigning for special treatment for muslim kids in London: I turned my back on him. Where was the "diversity"? The "Integration"? His meddling was divisive and has since proved disastrous across the UK. There is no "two-way" integration with such a cult.... it has no place in the western world. His recordings sat unused on my shelves for decades. I have, of late, played a few out of nostalgia for my youth. I was 13/14 when I was a fan.... I am now 71. He has betrayed his own songs of peace, love and understanding.

[@negy2570]

@@patagualianmostly7437 weirdly enough many muslim parents oppose music classes in school because music is haram 😁

[@steveharrigan7811]

Spot On !.......Great comment, and I agree 100%...@@patagualianmostly7437

[@ixlnxs]

Indeed. He has a lot in common with Sinead O'Connor. Both were mentally unstable and got religion during a depression. The difference is that Stevens found a mentally stable partner who kept him in the faith and helped him out of depresion. O'Connor only found equally troubled spirits who helped her out of the faith and kept her in depression. @@patagualianmostly7437

[@herbertvanlynden6629]

I wouldn't call his life tragic, compared to what most of us have to go through and endure. He had all the success and the fame, and of course that is superficial. Hendrix' life was tragic, but Cat survived it and has lived happily ever after.

[@gygogo1]

He choose changing his name to a Muslim name long before it was normal and sadly his career went down. personal choices.

[@roadtohope]

💯

[@AbdulTheV1ogger]

found the racist troll@@gygogo1

[@AbdulTheV1ogger]

your ip will be traced@@gygogo1

[@winstonodell3867]

Cat Stevens lived a privileged lifestyle topped off with a gift for writing and performing music. His debilitating illness is most unfortunate, but perhaps the true setback was his departure from music.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

Becoming Muslim, especially a Muslim who has signed on for a Wahhabi interpretation of Islam is beyond tragic. He is now an enemy of God and aligned with the Antichrist who is coming. He actually would have done better wasting his life in hedonism.

[@khadijaadam5860]

Use your brains

[@md.noorulkarim5542]

He has chosen Islam as his religion. May Allah SWT give him the highest rewards.He has got peace there and highly respected .

[@donaldwilliamfry]

@@md.noorulkarim5542 Muhammad was a false prophet. Nothing about his life compares to that of Jesus, yet he claims to be superior. You are following what will be the base of the future Antichrist. The Bible even warns of false prophets, like Muhammad, ahead of time in Galatians 1. Your Hadith also conclusively prove Muhammad to be a false prophet. You, and Cat, have been deceived, my friend.

[@hifrommike2120]

Jimi Hendrix's life was tragic. Yusuf Islam's was not. He survived.

[@beakay.1834]

It’s tragic but that was in the past. But since Cat became Yusuf, he became a happier person & raised a good family. He is able to stay away from many vices like addictions to drugs, alcohol or hedonistic lifestyle where many famous musicians or artists experienced or suffered sometimes fatally.

[@davidbrown5185]

He was such a great song writer and singer. I loved his work in the 1970s. And thought it a great pity when he gave up his music for religion..

[@theo9952]

Yeah, the only tragedy here.

[@donaldwilliamfry]

That he gave it up for the religion he joined is the greatest tragedy. He bought himself hell.

[@theo9952]

@@donaldwilliamfry Μuslims believe that all non-muslims will end up in the sadistic muslim hell. Same as christians believe about non-christians. Religion is self deceptrion. It is just that this talented man chose to join the most backward and intolerant of all religions.

[@Urbanfisho]

@@theo9952 Agreed!

[@Urbanfisho]

@@donaldwilliamfry Agreed!

[@antoniodelrey164]

If Islam gives him peace and changed his life for the better then who are we to judge? There are some very peaceful Muslims, Sufis for example. He seems like a truly genuine person and has written some excellent and unforgettable songs. He is a very soulful person and I wish him the best. He’s had some close calls and God saved him for a reason and he is fulfilling God’s plan for him…

[@68samee]

he has risen above all his tragedies with grace

[@marzoogbataineh9561]

a legend as a human and a musician

[@lervish1966]

And a religious fanatic

[@craigthurlow9308]

A human💩

[@alanaadams7440]

He needs to take responsibility for his decisions and choices

[@lsingstock1646]

I've loved him since the late 60's and always will. What a great poet.

[@NCLUSA]

Shame, he's a terrorist supporter.

[@matteg490]

Stevens made his bed of fatwa nails and must sleep on them. He was afraid to speak out against the madness of his gutter religion. He has some embarrassing songs like Moonshadow and Peace Train. Not cool production, maybe would be better with better production.

[@tonyprice2256]

@@matteg490 He has made his choices in life, you have made yours, and i have made mine. Only you can decide what is right for you. Every religion has it's faults, and all religions are a waste of time. But that is just my opinion.

[@matteg490]

@@tonyprice2256 Some are worse than others .. usually those religions that take very old text so literally. The Quran may not be worse than the bible but the more open-minded West just doesn't take it so literally, except for 50 million zealots who still don't stone heathens or kill misbehaving children (Old Testament) or have honor kills, etc. I don't know how common but it seems Muslims take the cake on hurting others in their families, hating gays, hating infidels - some kill them.

[@JNosewicz7569]

​@@matteg490it sounds like your life is a mess.

[@altafurahman1]

Everyone in the Muslim world loves him.

[@catherinetodd]

I knew Cat Stevens when he played at the Gaslight Cafe in the late '60's or early '70's, after his first hit record. He was the nicest, sweetest performer that ever performed there. It's been interesting following his career ever since. Nothing "tragic" about him at all. He was a great person and still is.

[@blackmore4]

No, great people don't wish that other people who've written a book they disagree with should be burned.

[@catherinetodd]

@@blackmore4 : what are you talking about?

[@rdhudon7469]

So you agree with him that all those who do not follow islam should die ? His words not mine.

[@blackmore4]

@@catherinetodd In 1989, Ayatollah Khomeini of Iran issued a fatwa (an Islamic ruling) upon author Salman Rushdie for having written a book ('The Satanic Verses') which Khomeini pronounced "blasphemous". The fatwa called for a death sentence. Khomeini then publicly called for Muslims worldwide to murder the author or anyone else involved in the book's publishing. Cat Stevens completely agreed with this lunacy and even appeared on British national TV to argue in its favour. The host of the show asked him if he'd be attending one of the rabid fundamentalist Muslim street protests where effigies of Rushdie were to be burned. Stevens replied, and I quote, _"I would have hoped that it'd be the real thing."_ He also said that if Rushdie turned up at his doorstep looking for help, _''I might ring somebody who might do more damage to him than he would like. I'd try to phone the Ayatollah Khomeini and tell him exactly where this man is."_ Peace Train? Yeah, right.

[@janeslater8004]

@@catherinetodd that he said salman rushdie should be killed

[@susanjoycesabo8450]

I had no idea he had overcome such severe health problems. Wow! TB can still kill. Like some other diseases, the biggest danger from TB is failure to recognize/treat it.

[@rridderbusch518]

My husband had TB. He was 18 when he threw up *a lot* of blood suddenly. He spent 2 years in the hospital as a Ward of the State, and another 2 years of regular check-ups. He's 73 now, and still hasn't any idea how he caught it.

[@BigMamou367]

My father died of Avian TB about 30 years ago. Back then that type had a bad prognosis here in the US.

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

Nah, your comment about TB is overblown. You have been listening to the government trying to take your freedom. **sarcasm**

[@istankimjong-unbutcantstan3398]

TB is a hoax and government ploy to control you. you can't believe everything the media tells you - well that's how everybody treated what happened in 2020 even thought it claimed many lives. Why not TB? **sarcasm**@@rridderbusch518

[@PaulanthonyBridge-kt4eg]

I suppose he thought Allah had him covered....🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@michaelarrowood4315]

Fascinating. It explains some of the things I heard in Cat Stevens' music. That music was truly a revelation to me, and in important ways shaped my life from then on. Genius!

[@HebrewLiteracy]

love his old music, nice to have some insight into the meanings. The woman who left him for Mcjagger fit's the "wild world" lyrics so well

[@kathyvangogh4034]

Did you know that Carly Simon’s hit song Anticipation was written about waiting for her date with Cat Stevens?

[@scottbeck7762]

I thought it was about ketchup.

[@jodyharnish9104]

When he went from telling people to jump on the peace train to telling them to jump on Salman Rushdie and kill him, I stopped being a fan. How could he be so stupid?

[@shaileshmathews4086]

WHAT IS THE TRAGIC HERE? CAT STEVENS :the famous British pop singer. He sang many songs about world peace like" peace train". Later he became ISLAM& changed his name as Usaful Islam. Suddenly he started saying killing of Salman RUSHDE. From Cat stevace to Usaful Islam- was"peace train" to killing. THAT IS THE TRAGIC HERE. THAT IS RADICAL ISLAM:STAY AWAY FROM IT.