Cat Stevens, also known as Yusuf Islam, is a legendary British singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the 1970s with his unique blend of folk, rock, and pop music. With his soulful vocals, intricate guitar work, and deeply personal lyrics, Stevens created a body of work that has endured for decades, touching the hearts of millions of fans around the world.
In this article, we will take a look at the 10 best Cat Stevens songs of all time, exploring the themes, melodies, and emotions that make these songs enduring classics. From the upbeat folk-pop of “Peace Train” to the emotional balladry of “Father and Son,” these songs capture the essence of Stevens’ unique talent and vision, showcasing his ability to craft deeply personal and universal songs that continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
Whether you are a longtime fan of Cat Stevens or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to inspire and delight, showcasing some of the most iconic and beloved songs of one of the greatest singer-songwriters of all time. So sit back, relax, and let the music of Cat Stevens transport you to a world of beauty, wonder, and emotion.
1. Morning Has Broken
“Morning Has Broken” is a timeless classic by Cat Stevens that has been captivating audiences since its release in 1971. The song’s gentle and soothing melody is complemented by its uplifting lyrics, which celebrate the beauty and wonder of a new day. The opening piano chords immediately draw listeners in, followed by Stevens’ warm and soulful voice, which sings about the joy and renewal that comes with the rising sun. The song’s imagery of birds singing and dewdrops sparkling adds to its natural and serene feel. “Morning Has Broken” is a true gem that has stood the test of time, and its message of hope and gratitude is as relevant today as it was over 50 years ago.
2. Wild World
“Wild World” is a timeless folk-pop classic by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1970, the song features Stevens’ signature guitar work and soulful vocals, as well as lush orchestration and a catchy melody that has stood the test of time.
Lyrically, “Wild World” is a poignant and bittersweet ballad about the pain of letting go of a loved one and wishing them well on their journey through life. Stevens’ lyrics offer wise and heartfelt advice to the song’s subject, encouraging them to be strong and true to themselves as they venture out into the world.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the now-famous lines “Oh baby, baby, it’s a wild world / It’s hard to get by just upon a smile / Oh baby, baby, it’s a wild world / I’ll always remember you like a child, girl”.
“Wild World” has become an enduring classic, covered by countless artists over the years and appearing in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials. Its timeless message of love, loss, and letting go continues to resonate with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of the most beloved and iconic songs of all time.
3. The Wind
“The Wind” is a hauntingly beautiful folk song by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens, also known as Yusuf Islam. Released in 1971, the song is known for its simple yet powerful acoustic guitar riff and Stevens’ distinctive voice, which conveys a sense of longing and melancholy.
Lyrically, “The Wind” is a poetic and introspective meditation on the fleeting nature of life and the inevitability of change. Stevens’ lyrics evoke the ebb and flow of the natural world, using the image of the wind as a metaphor for the passage of time and the impermanence of all things.
The song’s chorus is particularly moving, with Stevens singing the poignant lines “I listen to my words but they fall far below / I let my music take me where my heart wants to go / I swam upon the devil’s lake but never, never, never, never / I’ll never make the same mistake”.
“The Wind” is widely regarded as one of Cat Stevens’ greatest and most enduring songs, with its themes of transience and acceptance resonating with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. Its haunting melody and poignant lyrics continue to captivate and inspire fans around the world, making it a timeless classic in the folk canon.
4. Oh Very Young
“Oh Very Young” is a beautiful and uplifting folk-pop song by the iconic British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1974, the song features Stevens’ signature acoustic guitar and heartfelt vocals, as well as lush orchestration and a catchy melody that has become synonymous with his unique brand of introspective and poetic songwriting.
Lyrically, “Oh Very Young” is a tender and bittersweet ode to youth and innocence, with Stevens offering sage advice to young people about the importance of cherishing life and embracing the beauty and wonder of the world around them. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to savor the simple pleasures of life, to cherish their loved ones, and to embrace the present moment with open hearts and minds.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the poignant lines “Oh very young, what will you leave us this time / You’re only dancing on this earth for a short while / They will vanish away like your daddy’s best jeans / Denim blue fading up to the sky”.
“Oh Very Young” has become an enduring classic, beloved by generations of fans for its timeless message of hope, love, and the beauty of life. Its uplifting melody and poignant lyrics continue to inspire listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and iconic songs.
5. Where Do The Children Play
“Where Do The Children Play” is a poignant and thought-provoking folk-rock song by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1970, the song features Stevens’ trademark acoustic guitar and emotive vocals, as well as a catchy melody and evocative lyrics that speak to the human experience.
Lyrically, “Where Do The Children Play” is a powerful commentary on the state of the world and the impact of modernization and industrialization on the natural world and human society. Stevens’ lyrics lament the loss of open space and natural beauty in the face of urbanization and technological progress, questioning the wisdom of sacrificing the environment and our humanity for the sake of progress.
The song’s chorus is particularly striking, with Stevens singing the memorable lines “Well you roll on roads over fresh green grass / For your lorry loads pumping petrol gas / And you make them long, and you make them tough / But they just go on and on, and it seems you can’t get off”.
“Where Do The Children Play” has become a powerful anthem for environmentalism and social justice, inspiring generations of fans to question the status quo and strive for a better world. Its timeless message of hope and resilience continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most enduring and beloved songs.
6. Peace Train
“Peace Train” is a timeless and uplifting folk-pop anthem by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1971, the song features Stevens’ signature acoustic guitar and soulful vocals, as well as a catchy melody and powerful lyrics that speak to the human longing for peace and unity.
Lyrically, “Peace Train” is a heartfelt and optimistic call for global harmony and understanding, with Stevens using the image of a train as a metaphor for the human journey towards peace and enlightenment. The song’s lyrics offer a message of hope and solidarity, urging listeners to join together and work towards a better future for all.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the rousing lines “Come on peace train / Sound it out / Come on peace train / Hear me shout”.
“Peace Train” has become an iconic and enduring classic, beloved by generations of fans for its timeless message of love, unity, and peace. Its uplifting melody and inspiring lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and iconic songs.
7. On The Road To Find Out
“On The Road To Find Out” is a soulful and introspective folk-rock song by the iconic British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1970, the song features Stevens’ signature acoustic guitar and emotive vocals, as well as a catchy melody and evocative lyrics that speak to the human search for meaning and purpose.
Lyrically, “On The Road To Find Out” is a powerful meditation on the journey of life and the search for spiritual and emotional fulfillment. Stevens’ lyrics explore the themes of self-discovery and personal growth, urging listeners to embrace the journey of life and find their own path to enlightenment.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the memorable lines “Well, I left my happy home to see what I could find out / I left my folk and friends with the aim to clear my mind out / Well, I hit the rowdy road and many kinds I met there / Many stories told me of the way to get there”.
“On The Road To Find Out” has become a timeless classic, beloved by generations of fans for its timeless message of self-discovery and personal growth. Its uplifting melody and inspiring lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most enduring and beloved songs.
8. Moonshadow
“Moonshadow” is a whimsical and uplifting folk-pop song by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1971, the song features Stevens’ signature acoustic guitar and playful vocals, as well as a catchy melody and upbeat lyrics that speak to the joys of life and the power of positive thinking.
Lyrically, “Moonshadow” is a joyful and optimistic celebration of the simple pleasures of life, with Stevens using the image of a moonshadow to represent the fleeting moments of joy and wonder that make life worth living. The song’s lyrics encourage listeners to embrace the present moment and find happiness in the small things, reminding us that life is a journey to be savored and enjoyed.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the infectious lines “Oh, I’m bein’ followed by a moonshadow, moonshadow, moonshadow / Leapin’ and hoppin’ on a moonshadow, moonshadow, moonshadow”.
“Moonshadow” has become a beloved and enduring classic, cherished by generations of fans for its timeless message of positivity and joy. Its uplifting melody and playful lyrics continue to inspire listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and iconic songs.
9. Father and Son
“Father and Son” is a poignant and emotional folk-rock song by the legendary British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1970, the song features Stevens’ trademark acoustic guitar and soulful vocals, as well as a heartfelt duet between two characters: a father and his son.
Lyrically, “Father and Son” is a powerful exploration of the generational divide and the complex relationship between fathers and sons. The song’s lyrics address the struggles of communication and understanding that can arise between generations, as well as the difficulties of coming of age and finding one’s place in the world.
The song’s chorus is particularly moving, with Stevens singing the heartfelt lines “I know I have to go away / I know I have to go”.
“Father and Son” has become an enduring classic, beloved by generations of fans for its timeless message of love, compassion, and understanding. Its powerful lyrics and soulful melodies continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and iconic songs.
10. The First Cut Is The Deepest
“The First Cut Is The Deepest” is a soulful and emotional ballad originally written and recorded by the iconic British singer-songwriter Cat Stevens. Released in 1967, the song features Stevens’ trademark acoustic guitar and heartfelt vocals, as well as a haunting melody and deeply personal lyrics.
Lyrically, “The First Cut Is The Deepest” is a powerful exploration of the pain and heartache of love and loss, with Stevens using the image of a physical wound to represent the emotional scars that can result from a broken heart. The song’s lyrics speak to the universal experience of heartbreak and the difficulty of moving on from a relationship that has ended.
The song’s chorus is particularly memorable, with Stevens singing the poignant lines “But if you want to try again, baby I’ll try to love again, but I know / The first cut is the deepest, baby I know / The first cut is the deepest”.
“The First Cut Is The Deepest” has become an enduring classic, covered by countless artists over the years and beloved by generations of fans for its timeless message of love, loss, and resilience. Its haunting melody and deeply personal lyrics continue to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, making it one of Cat Stevens’ most beloved and iconic songs.
Simon Robinson is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
