The Tragic Story Of Cat Stevens

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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

[@verity4917]

GRUNGE'S life is more tragic than anyone else! He's blind, he can't see HIS OWN TRAGEDY!😂

[@Blahblahblah-k8w]

Nope,he's Evil

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@LizzieLane777]

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

[@Blahblahblah-k8w]

Nope

[@mohawk876]

Tragic to whom?? Cat stevens is happy in life. What's your tragedy because he doesn't agree with your life choice.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@patcerra6714]

Remember the interview where he agreed with the fatwah against Salmin Rushtie by that old pedophile Ayatollah Khomeini

[@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.

[@ahmadly1634]

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

[@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.

[@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!

[@suaramuslim-v1k]

Ameen

[@bowerbird7463]

Most humans are so weak minded, they want to believe they ‘live on’ after death! Yeah, right…

[@KellyK-il2bk]

@@PixelatedExistenceHe’s still alive?

[@khairuladham677]

he is MasyaALLAH practicing Islam and really practice Rasul's sunnah

[@AminaAbs]

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

[@tonysony1975]

His name now is Yusuf Islam ..Cat Stevens doesn’t exist anymore.

[@pasdeville]

@@tonysony1975 Yusuf Islam never made beautiful songs.Only Cat Stevens did.

[@CAF5207]

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.

[@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....

[@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.

[@bowerbird7463]

Of course it had to be a smart arse British reporter!

[@bowerbird7463]

British tabloid, say no more

[@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.

[@Blahblahblah-k8w]

He's a dirty thief

[@Blahblahblah-k8w]

​@@skidancinpure Evil

[@skidancin]

@@Blahblahblah-k8w something like that

[@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 ..

[@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 .

[@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.

[@gerryconstant4914]

Bert Cord & Ruth Gordon were great in that movie with Cat's soundtrack setting the mood. I believe he also did a British movie The Deep End in 1971.

[@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.

[@altrmind]

Numbers 15:39 God says, "Don't be misled by your heart and eyes"

[@altrmind]

2 Corinthians 5 Jesus says that the human heart is the source of all kinds of sin, and that we shouldn't follow our hearts, but question them.

[@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'.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@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.

[@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!

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@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.

[@Suzette-gb7uj]

The quote was taken out of context, he did not call for the death of Salman Rushdie.

[@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]

@Mohamad A Rahman 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".

[@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.

[@hassimbaba8313]

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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@KellyK-il2bk]

Love this man. He’s given us some of the most beautiful music.

[@hypercomms2001]

It is not tragic… he is responsible for his words and action and no amount of white washing and back tracking can change that…..

[@hypercomms2001]

@@patriciapowell6047 not sure how you find that funny… I used to love Cat Steven’s music, but after his support for the murder of Salman Rushdie, he is scum… and anyone who thinks supporting the murder of someone who views they do not support is scum…Yusuf Islam should have the guts to apologise… but he will not bc he has no integrity….

[@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.

[@firebyrd437]

​@shailesh mathews, you're right. He also didn't sing for years because he thought singing was against Islam, I have no time for the man whatsoever, you can not white wash a black heart

[@shaileshmathews4086]

@@firebyrd437 That was not his thought. The concept of "singing is forbidden " is not his thought , but islam teaches so , though muslims sing. You can have the proof for it in their Quran , tafseers (official explanations)and Hadiths . A real muslim does not sing.

[@goobfilmcast4239]

Shorter Cat Stevens: I hate the music business....but I took the money.

[@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.

[@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

[@rukhsanalenherr9904]

I don’t believe it’s tragic story as much as I believe life experiences, I am convinced he’s an honorable man seeking for genuineness in life just like his songs

[@TaraCoyote]

I agree!

[@tonirolfs9142]

Thank you for such a well researched report. I saw the Geoffrey Robertson "Hypothetical". There was nothing ambiguous or humorous, or edited. When asked about what he would do if Salman Rushdie came into a restaurant in London where he was eating, given the fatwah... He said, "I wouldn't kill him, but I would make a phone call." The meaning was clear. "I wouldn't kill him, but I'd tell someone who would." I'd been a huge fan, but all I could think was "what has happened to the man who wrote "Peace Train"? " I just wanted to burn the records I had loved so much.

[@iquanyin1]

but you don’t really know who is telling the accurate version. because you weren’t there. it’s just people talking.

[@Birdylockso]

He's just another lost artist trying to find himself but ended up in the wrong place. This research also gave me a bad taste in the mouth, sort of speak. Not gonna enjoy his music going forward now, tbh.

[@patagualianmostly7437]

@@iquanyin1 How lame an excuse is that?

[@negy2570]

@@patagualianmostly7437 very lame, actually. Given the seriousness of the matter, someone who doesn't want to be misunderstood would give a clear explanation, especially when people talks. But he won't, because denying the value of a fatwah means. not just having a different opinion that your fellow co-religionists, which is not allowed there anyway, but also putting oneself in a possibly dangerous place.

[@HeileFeile]

@@Birdylockso look at his face und you will see he has a face of an angel. Still in his age. Don't believe everything the medias tell.

[@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! :)

[@ellen4956]

The song that reminds me of my first boyfriend is, "How Can I Tell You. " Just a couple of years ago his family and I had a memorial for him, and they played that song while we each threw flowers into the sea for him. He was caught in a rip-tide on the California coast and died at 16 years old. His family thought it was suicide. I was able to find them all these years later and explain the truth of it - they had never seen the report. It brought such peace to them to know it was not intentional, but an accident. It's mindblowing to hear Cat Stevens was also pulled out by the rip-tide here!

[@MrNick-og4qm]

How did you have the police report/ autopsy report but the family didn’t? If he was your boyfriend and he died at 16, I’m assuming you were under 18 years old, and they don’t issue or even show autopsy reports to the deceased 16 year old girlfriend but not his mother/father.

[@ellen4956]

@@MrNick-og4qm I didn't get the reports back then. He and I were the same age and I was out of town with my parents. A friend called to tell me but she didn't know any details except that he drowned. There was no public funeral, no obit, and his mother and sisters would not talk about it. 10 years ago I got a copy of the report from a friend who works for the county where the reports were filed. Listed C.O.D. was "accidental drowning while playing in the surf". Rip-tides are common along there. One of the witnesses said he was swimming out a little and coming back in on the waves and laughing, then was pulled out quickly. She thought he was purposely swimming out but he was fighting it, trying to swim back and eventually went under. That was in the report. His family had never seen the report (I don't know why). We had a memorial for him that year, and a lot of family came to share memories. ♥

[@Bubbles-od2tv]

@@ellen4956 I'm sorry for your loss, how tragic for his family to think for so long that he had killed himself, when he hadn't.

[@ellen4956]

@@Bubbles-od2tv Thank you so much. I truly appreciate that.

[@dragonmaid1360]

Back in the day when people were 'discovered' they didnt have to compete with techno producers and ply their ability time and time again to record companies. Cat was a staple of mine along with Fleetwood Mack back in the day. God the music was good back then. Cat reminded us about what was 'real'. And I think we knew it then. It's good to hear he clarified his position on his website. But I don't remember even knowing he had a website to find that. It's sad the world was so traumatised by the press at that point because I loved his music and never lost that love.

[@SurnaturalM]

I think that's why the people who become popular in those days were pure talents. That time period has so many talented artists, signers and bands. It was the real musical peak.

[@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.

[@Imlaq1966]

I urge you to try to learn understand Islam. That would help you

[@celestecochran9845]

That is my favorite love song. Simply beautiful.

[@laylaali5977]

Why would you be sad

[@MrYorickJenkins]

@@laylaali5977 Because it is a religion which has scant regard for music, which despises nature and animals, considers women second class citizens, and is arrogant and violent towards those in its community who do not share a belief in its superstitions

[@pcbacklash_3261]

Cat Stevens didn't just convert to Islam. He converted to radical Islam, arguably the most hateful and malevolent strain of religion on the planet. It transformed him from a seemingly altruistic human being into a religious zealot who admitted he'd have gladly betrayed Salman Rushdie to those seeking to kill him under Khomeini's fatwa. THAT's the tragedy. And, of course, he later lied outright about it, even trying to claim it was "humor" or "taken out of context," but his words are clear as day, in a serious discussion panel. Some of them are even on video. A scumbag.

[@barneygimble8984]

You think you know him. Because you liked his music back in the hippie days . But you impression is a reflection of your psyche, because you don't know yourself or him .

[@mangot589]

Yeah, I wasn’t too keen about that flat out backtracking either. I mean, you can SEE him say it.

[@kellysturgeon6727]

You are hilarious. Christianity has caused most of the pain and atrocities in the history of the planet. POS

[@sabihadoolarkhan9152]

He went thru the deep end while learning about Islam, he moved on and away from extremism when he understood the True Essence of Islam which is Obedience to the God of All Mankind ... I was his fan as a teen , after I myself converted to Islam years later, from a Catholic background, we met up at an airport both as Muslims, fascinating encounter.

[@pcbacklash_3261]

@IIOO You're right, of course. I was actually going to mention that, doctrinally, Islam literally divides the earth between Dar al-Islam (the House of Islam) and Dar al-Harb (the House of War), but decided a more muted, diplomatic approach might be better received.

[@matchrocket1702]

I was caught in a riptide once. It nearly killed me. Instead of calling on God to save me I resigned myself to death. I was only 14 at the time. Had I known at the time you can easily get yourself out of a riptide. All you have to do is swim parallel to the shore a little and then swim in. Fortunately my younger brother finally came to my rescue on a surfboard.

[@charleslitwin4647]

LOL! dumbass!

[@hifinsword]

When I was in my 60s I went for a swim in the ocean. The surf didn't seem that strong but after 15 mins of trying I was completely exhausted by the time I got out beyond the breakers. I'm not a strong swimmer, and no where near the physical shape I had been decades before. Instead of calling on God for help, I conserved my strength, rested up a few minutes treading water, and was able to get back to shore. My time in the military taught me I can do things I never thought I could do, if I persevered beyond where I thought I should quit. God helped Cat Stevens when he asked for it. I knew I could do things beyond my self-imposed limits. We all believe what we think we can do, and cannot do.

[@matchrocket1702]

@@hifinsword I was a strong swimmer at the time when I was 14. At one point I tried to swim under the water. The bottom was flat rock. When I dove down I instantly understood my situation because I was pulled back by a swift current. I grabbed the rough bottom and pulled myself along as far as my breath would hold then shot up to the surface as fast as I could. I could tell I had gained little ground. I tried this tactic a few more times but it was wearing me down more than ordinary swimming. They don't call it a riptide for nothing. That current was fast.

[@corinaag7878]

👍

[@rdhudon7469]

Glad you survived . I lost a friend to one and also saw a video of an Olympic swimmer that fought one and died . I was told you can also just float on it until it releases you and then swim back.

[@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 💚

[@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.

[@rosskardon7195]

I am very glad how in September of 2016, I went to New York City for one night to see Yusaf/Islam Cat Stevens in concert at the Beacon Theater. That way if Cat Stevens should pass away or completely retire from touring, at least I got to see him once in concert.

[@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.

[@altafurahman1]

Everyone in the Muslim world loves him.

[@larshansen4557]

Im an ateist , I love him too beacause of his music , dont care about his religion i love his songs

[@mlicj]

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.

[@nomadexplorer6682]

Wonderful presentation ! I loved the content and the editing. I love Steven's songs. What Steven did about his religious affiliation is his choice. However, if his statements against Rushdie were so harsh, he has paid the price. Sentences once told cannot be forgotten so easily. He chose a religion which today is considered by other religious followers as violent, unforgiving, undemocratic and revengeful.

[@rick419]

Sounds like the GQP

[@Bubbles-od2tv]

Islam is actually a beautiful religion if you care to look past headline news.

[@reviewerman9786]

@@Bubbles-od2tv Yeah read history about how Islam was spread. No need to read headlines.

[@Bubbles-od2tv]

@@reviewerman9786 What's wrong with how Islam was spread? It was spread by word. I'm thankful it spread to my ancestors.

[@reviewerman9786]

@@Bubbles-od2tv If you don't know, you don't know. There are plenty of history books out there if you have an open mind.

[@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.

[@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.

[@monkeybarmonkeyman]

Too many of us would debate with him the statement "music is a luxury". A large percentage of the population would say "no, it is a necessity".

[@Pinkeye82517]

Don’t be silly. Food is a necessity. Music is a luxury compared to that.

[@66fitton]

"Father and son". Hands down! ❤

[@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....🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Lynn-i2w]

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

[@jcalberta5706]

Sad what happened. This guy was a brilliant Artist. Tea for the Tillerman is STILL a Classic Album. I waited and waited for him to return. Then lost track of him. After he converted to Islam I had to let him go. But I still listen to Tea for the Tillerman. The fact that this led to him quitting music is an horrific tragedy. I wish him well though and his journey and Thank him for all the great music.

[@nickidaisydandelion4044]

100%.

[@sjefhendrickx2257]

Let him go? You must a dumbb american than wit a narrow mind

[@jameswarrren2545]

"I had to let him go." You had to. That's understandable but yet so sad.

[@nickidaisydandelion4044]

@@jameswarrren2545 You can still listen to his music.

[@atirdarr1411]

Mate hes still playing music. Nothing tragic about his life. If you think he is ..well look at your own my friend..

[@paulfrost8952]

It”s always a shame when people catch the religion bug ( especially after “doing drugs”. ) and try to spread their version, I like Dave Allen’s approach “and may your god go with you” no pressure no pushing and definitely not preaching. I really like the emphasis on “your” it imply’s none as well ( he was an atheist )

[@drmodestoesq]

I think Dave Allen got it right. He knew that no matter how much you pray for a miracle to restore an amputated finger....it's never going to grow back.

[@dahliajames6966]

The religion bug only applies to islam im guessing?

[@dahliajames6966]

​@@drmodestoesq that's not the point of prayer

[@paulfrost8952]

@@dahliajames6966 No you would be wrong to think that, I,ve seen the religion bug in all sorts of Christians and some other cults too! That’s why I said the religion bug and not the Islam bug!

[@paulfrost8952]

@@dahliajames6966 you’ve not meet many Catholics I’m guessing!?

[@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

[@davidlamb7524]

He clearly said on the BBC that he wanted Rushdie himself burned not just his effigy. He has since denied it but the video is still on youtube.

[@mountainfolk7942]

Whatever his trials & tribulations (which we all experience), Cat Stevens was & IS a beautiful, sensitive, creative, concerned, spiritual & generous individual. We are the same age & his is music was paramount to many of us in our formative years. We had a duo perform "Morning has Broken" at our wedding, only three years ago (my first marriage!) Am happy to know he found a beautiful, intelligent, obviously caring woman with whom to share his life & help him to spread his magnificent genes so the World will be blessed by his presence for a long time. God Bless You, Cat. May you ride that Peace Train forever. Thank you.

[@AlexAlexon3897]

Peace Train my foot. He caused harm to Salman Rushdie and others through supporting terrorism.

[@gadaffi1000]

He's no better than a murderous scum bag.

[@mauritsvw]

Your first marriage? Do you plan many more? Just joking, of course.

[@DAVID-kd3qy]

Sanctimonious twaddle! We do not all support a death threat against another human being for merely writing a book.

[@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!

[@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...

[@afzaalkhan.m]

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

[@radonato]

I just have to say, I've seen chest x-rays flipped vertically, making a left to right image. BUT I have never seen one hung upside down and yet so carefully examined. "Sorry Cat....you've got anti-gravity TB. Every cough brings you closer to a singularity"

[@cjaye3693]

I don't think his life story was Tragic, in fact I find it beautifully inspiring. We all are searching for our Truth, our purpose, our calling. God Bless Cat Stevens for the courage he showed by singing/writing beautiful songs inspired by his struggles. Oh Baby it's a Wild World!!!!

[@dyanshane]

The only thing tragic is that he embraced a religion that terrorizes and degrades women.

[@abaziz4604]

@@dyanshane you should recite al quran..to understand islam more

[@dyanshane]

@@abaziz4604 It could have been a good religion, but men distorted it. No thanks. I will stay a Christian.

[@gadaffi1000]

He is a murderous cvnt. Period.

[@As_412]

@@dyanshaneIt doesn’t terrorize woman. Can you show me one Quran verse that does that ? You have no proof!! Like you also have no proof that Jesus (as) was Christian, prophet Muhammad (saw) was just another prophet, with the exception that he was the last one after Jesus (as) and he was prophesied in the Bible many times; Christian’s at his time recognized him from the Bible and accepted Islam like the Ethopian Christian king Negus. Even byzantine Christian emperor approved his message and him as prophet but was afraid of his peoples reaction if he would accept it. Or what do you think which prophet was talked about in John 1:19-21? Or Deutronomy 18:18? Or Isaiah 42? Men his name is even mentioned in Song of Solomon 5:16 in the original Hebrew ,,Muhammadim”

[@markhorton8578]

I liked Cat Stevens but was not a big fan unlike some people I knew. After he repeatedly and passionately called for the MURDER of Salman Rushdie, including several times on prime time TV, many British fans took their Cat Stevens albums into their gardens and burnt them. Some of them cannot bear the sound of him anymore, they hate it. He also said that he was not interested in attending the burning of effigies of Rushdie, but that he would be interested in attending the real thing. I clearly remember some of those calls on television, including the burning alive remark. Plus you still used to be able to see some of those calls for murder on KZbin until only few years ago. Despite many calls to do so, he has never retracted those calls, or apologised for them. He now actually denies he ever made them. Ironically he appeared at a peace rally in the US a few years ago. He wants peace with Islam... UNDER Islamic Law. Make no mistake this is one seriously deluded and evil man. Such a shameful end for someone with such talent.

[@MrAaronvee]

Burning his LPs was silly: I used hot water to melt mine into decorative pot-holders.

[@thedativecase9733]

I didn't know about him calling for Rushdie's murder. That is still shocking amazing how religion doesn't stop people being vengeful and cruel.

[@markhorton8578]

@@thedativecase9733 I can clearly remember him doing it, on two occasions in addition to the wanting to watch him burn interview. Years later I saw that he had done it more times on other shows on KZbin. What shocked many British people is the the authorities were falling over themselves to avoid enraging the muslim community further by prosecuting him. Make no mistake, this man is an unrepentant supporter of murder and terror to further his religion. He denies it, but the evidence is on film, and millions have seen it.

[@robsmith6215]

My teenage idol, Tea for the Tillerman, inspired me to learn guitar and played every song, loved it all, then saw him in concert in Hawaii early 70’s, amazing artist…then later switched to Islam??!!? Always wondered why?….your video finally told me the rest of the story, Mahalo!

[@kensteel4469]

Not a tragic life. An interesting life,full of ups and downs. Thanks for a good video

[@Atcraftcity]

I grew up in 60-70’s and loved Cat Stevens! My all time favorite song is Peace Train. I agree with most of the comments…his life wasn’t tragic. He made decisions as do all people.

[@jc238]

I wouldnt say his life has been tragic, total nonsense. Great musician, great songs and I believe a decent human being.

[@robertdamphousse1351]

That's the definition of tragic. Decent human being? Ain't nobody got time fer dat😅 no he was one of the real ones

[@hans-joachimbierwirth4727]

Decent? He took part in a movement that demanded more terrorist attacks and caused some.

[@fozibear2281]

Hear hear

[@2Hot2]

Kind of ironic for "JC" to imply that a tragic life is indecent. Anyway, I don't see how so many commentators can claim his life wasn't tragic unless they're singer-songerwriters constantly builled and manipulated by their manager, have had near fatal cases of TB, have been so alienated that they lived alone and couldn't even talk to the cleaning woman, etc.

[@jc238]

@@2Hot2 wtf

[@michaelgill5186]

Loved many of his songs during my high school days and more recently But Christ. Him thinking Islam is a solution to ANYTHING..what a dropkick !!!

[@jackielongmire9247]

I loved his music and Peace Train is probable my favorite. Morning has Broken, I wish for my memorial. I named our cat Stephens. I never understood his beliefs but I loved his music.

[@Thomas-r8w9x]

The music stopped Because of the extreme religious beliefs he has come have. His religious beliefs stopped him from writing and performing. He now believes Salman Rushdie should be murdered for offending his damned religion. Political and religious authoritarians fear, distrust, and work to suppress such human expression that they don't control. That is what he has become, a nasty religious bigot.

[@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.

[@BrianaCunningham]

I don't get why this was titled tragic

[@helenamaria710]

To catch people.

[@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.

[@streaming5332]

To get you to watch it.

[@1danieltube794]

He became a muslim..Have you read the koran? Its pure evil. Muhammed was a pedophile and muslims teach children that he was the perfect man. Horrible and tragic.

[@barrywhite9114]

@@shaileshmathews4086 Islam is a Religion of Faith & Peace. The Infidel does Not believe in God. Stay away from the Infidel.

[@justthinking526]

I love this bright spirit, and bless his path in Islam. He has love, beauty, truth, and is living his core beliefs. No tragedy here, only success.

[@vincevoss1405]

He also sued many other artists for copyright infringement, claiming he had invented certain chords progressions and melodies. Very humanitarian

[@allanb52]

At almost the same time I got carried out by a rip and nearly drowned, I was okay about dying, maybe felt cheated, but was rescued by a lifeguard, along with another guy out there. I now know what to do, swim along the beach, not towards it. The rips are only a few metres wide and another may take you in..

[@Durga695]

My first love Cat Stevens, and all his music.

[@n.a.1397]

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

[@francesbernard2445]

Thank you for publishing this video which could help promote world peace while promoting Cat Steven's music both at the same time. What I have noticed about some businessmen too is how they try to control people working for them in ways that are unsustainable while they are shortsighted being concerned only about profit. Like for example when encouraging and /or coercing a young artist who is experiencing varying degrees of stage fright into consuming illegal and/or prescription drugs only to ensure their own performance by performance short term gain instead of encouraging the artist long enough to understand how to be both a successful artist and a healthy human being as they age. Because none of us can remain age 16 our whole life.

[@robertnewell5057]

C Stevens, by contrast, has not promoted peace through his endorsement of the fatwa on S Rushdie, a well documented public pronouncement.

[@beastscooter]

Cat Stevens is an enigma. Back in the day, everyone with a guitar played (or tried to play) Cat Stevens songs. Sing-alongs always included Cat Steven songs. I still have all the songbooks, but the joy they used to bring is no longer there. It is tragic.

[@c.a.t.732]

If one learned five or six chords on the guitar, (D, A, Am, G , E and Em) you could play a lot of his songs.

[@jezzatakla]

I played guitar and never once played a cat stevens song. Thankfully.

[@ron88303]

@@c.a.t.732 You could play most songs.

[@ron88303]

@@jezzatakla I learned to play guitar to his music. Still do. Thankfully.

[@c.a.t.732]

@@ron88303 You must have a very limited experience with music.

[@kellyshomemadekitchen]

I’ve always loved Cat Steven’s music and personality, but didn’t know a lot of these details. Thanks for posting.

[@bkm2797]

I had heard what was being said about him, but luckily I also heard Cat speak his truth. It's sad how people are so set for condemnation instead of just asking the person.

[@kellyshomemadekitchen]

@@bkm2797 yes, it is. Seems most of the population are ready to jump on a band wagon at anytime. I despise that.

[@colmmeade1824]

Yes excellent writer and singer

[@paulanthonybridge5741]

Look for his song "my smelly islamic arse".

[@c.a.t.732]

@@bkm2797 The actual truth can be seen on a video where he absolutely supports the fatwa against Salman Rushdie. His statements that the media twisted his words are nonsense.

[@matrixdzab7416]

Yousef Islam ( Cat Stevens) did not have a tragic life, he had a blessed life, and he is living the life of a truly free man. free from the celebrities' delusion. a man content his his beliefs.

[@catherinetchetchetkine9013]

Loved Cat Steven songs, such a good musician, pity he had struggles and changed. Wish he was still Cat Stevens

[@barneygimble8984]

It would be sad if anyone has not changed since the 70's

[@irenemax3574]

I think he has now come back to himself. Of course he has changed. Everyone does.

[@gadaffi1000]

Doesn't excuse his vile rhetoric.

[@barneygimble8984]

Yeah Arrest those folk.aingwrs at the air port like ameruca does Why cannot allow poets to speak freely

[@alkh3myst]

You wish he wouldn't be true to himself? Yusuf's not living his life to satisfy us.

[@nightwind67]

The tragedy is that a man that sung about peace and love embraced a religion that tells him Saham Rushdie needed to die. He's now nothing but a shell.

[@Roz-y2d]

I agree. Such a disappointing and immature thing to do. A bit like the Beatles and their silly mystical rubbish. Always loved CTs music though.

[@redtrummy]

I simply cannot believe that anyone can write songs that are so sensitively written with performed can be anything but a good human being

[@slartibartfast2649]

Didn't he support the attempted assassination of Salman Rushdie?

[@blackmore4]

How wrong you are.

[@hans-joachimbierwirth4727]

@@klaus3579 Nothing to question. The Idiot formerly known as Cat Stevens ist a totally worthless POS.

[@McRocking]

Rolf Harris & Jonathan King were also sensitive lyricists. 😉

[@tonirolfs9142]

People change. He did.

[@jannahfirdaws9791]

Not tragic but blessed. He has had a blessed life