Legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens will release a new album of original songs this summer that took the “Peace Train” hitmaker over a decade to make and revisits familiar themes of togetherness.
The 12-song collection is called “King of a Land” and comes out in June on George Harrison-founded Dark Horse Records. The album cover illustration shows a boy playing guitar on top of the Earth, as a cat stretches and a train puffs along a track.
The first single is the cheerful, family friendly “Take the World Apart,” with the lyrics “I'll take the world apart/to find a place for a peaceful heart.”
“The source of musical inspiration for this song came from the 50s. The smoochy harmonies and chords have an enchanting effect on the ear. Life was simpler then: lonely hearts yearning for love," he said in a statement to The Associated Press.
The album reunites Stevens with producer Paul Samwell-Smith, who produced three Stevens albums between 1970-72 — “Tea for the Tillerman,” “Teaser and the Firecat” and “Catch Bull at Four.”
Rock & Roll Hall of Fame member Stevens, who also goes by Yusuf, the name he took when he converted to Islam, has been a respected writer since releasing his debut in 1967. He’s had a string of Top 40 hits, from “Peace Train” and “Wild World” to “Morning Has Broken.” He was just named to Glastonbury’s coveted Legends slot this summer.
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15 Comments
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Yrral
His name is not Cat Stevens anymore
Roy Sophveason
It never was, he was not born "Cat Stevens". It is, however, one of the stage names he currently uses (again).
Capuchin
I was confused too. Apparently he switches between his Islamic name Yussuf Islam and his stage name these days.
I remember him talking about having trouble flying after 9/11. Yay. for ignorance.
Mr Kipling
Not to be confused with the best selling UK artist of the 1980's Shaking Stevens.
Ken Holcomb
One of my favorite singers growing up in the 70s, regardless of what name he goes by.
It's about the music, not the name.
stevemcclure
https://www.dailymail.co.uk/tvshowbiz/article-8800201/Salman-Rushdie-demands-apology-Yusuf-Islam-supported-fatwa-against-author.html
Jimizo
Good songwriter but I lost respect for him after what he said during the ‘Satanic Verses’ affair and later attempts to distance himself from what he’s on record as saying.
Doesn’t sound like an artist who believes in artistic expression.
Mark
With hit single “Death Fatwa For Salman”.
Lord Dartmouth
I thought music was 'haram'. Apologise for your support for the fatwa against Rushdie, Mr Georgiou!
Rodney
Grew up with his music.
don’t know much about the fatwa stuff, but Rushdie did knowingly bring it on himself for money greed.
people should listen to Cat Stevens music and lyrics, not politics.
Toblerone
He has made some wonderful music. But I too completely lost respect for him and interest in his music after his disgusting support for the fatwa against Rushdie.
Andy
For a man who likes to sing about peace and equality, Cat Stevens certainly doesn't like to speak of the truth, Satanic Verses comes to mind.
Strangerland
I like his old music. It makes me think of my mom.
falseflagsteve
A sick man who had his mind twisted by an evil and regressive religion.
starpunk
And ironically his new CD is on the Dark Horse label, which was started up by George Harrison himself. You know, Mr. 'Give Me Lone, Give Me Peace On Earth' and Mr. 'All You Need Is Love'.
Yusuf said that stupid remark in 1989. Did he ever retract it? People DO change their minds over time.