Cat Stevens, now known as Yusuf, is one of the most iconic singer-songwriters in music history. With his heartfelt lyrics, soothing voice, and timeless melodies, Stevens captured the spirit of the 1960s and 70s, creating songs that continue to resonate across generations. His music is a delicate blend of folk, pop, and introspective storytelling, touching on themes of love, spirituality, freedom, and the search for meaning. From tender ballads to uplifting anthems, Cat Stevens has an extraordinary ability to connect deeply with listeners, crafting songs that feel both personal and universal.
In this list, we’ll explore the top 10 most popular Cat Stevens songs of all time—classics that have left an indelible mark on music and culture. These tracks showcase the full range of Stevens’ artistry, from his reflective musings in “Father and Son” to the optimistic call for unity in “Peace Train.” Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his work, these songs are sure to remind you why Cat Stevens remains a musical legend. So, grab your headphones, let the melodies flow, and join us on this journey through the unforgettable hits that shaped the career of one of folk-rock’s greatest storytellers.
1. “Wild World” (1970)
A heartfelt blend of wisdom and melancholy, Wild World is one of Cat Stevens’ most enduring classics. Released on Tea for the Tillerman, the song is a tender farewell, offering advice to a loved one setting out on their own path. Its simple yet poignant lyrics capture the pain of letting go, all while expressing genuine concern for the person moving on. The acoustic guitar riff, combined with Stevens’ emotive vocal delivery, makes the song instantly recognizable. Though deeply personal, its themes of love, loss, and life’s uncertainties resonate universally. Over the years, Wild World has remained a beloved anthem, covered by numerous artists and continually touching new generations.
2. “Father and Son” (1970)
Few songs explore generational conflict as movingly as Father and Son. Featured on Tea for the Tillerman, it tells a conversation between an older, cautious father and a younger, ambitious son, each struggling to understand the other. Stevens brilliantly conveys both perspectives, shifting his vocal tone to distinguish the father’s measured wisdom from the son’s restless passion. The song’s folk melody is deceptively simple, allowing the raw emotion in the lyrics to take center stage. Whether you relate to the protective parent or the eager youth longing for independence, Father and Son remains an achingly beautiful meditation on family, dreams, and the passage of time.
3. “Morning Has Broken” (1971)
Morning Has Broken, from Teaser and the Firecat, is a beautifully reimagined hymn that celebrates the beauty of a new day. Originally a Christian hymn from the 1930s, Stevens gave it new life with his gentle, heartfelt delivery and the stunning piano accompaniment by Rick Wakeman of Yes. The song’s lyrics express gratitude for nature, renewal, and the simple joys of existence, making it a deeply spiritual and uplifting experience. Whether heard in a moment of quiet reflection or as part of a joyful morning ritual, Morning Has Broken continues to inspire listeners with its timeless message of appreciation and hope.
4. “Peace Train” (1971)
Optimistic and anthemic, Peace Train is Cat Stevens at his most hopeful. Released on Teaser and the Firecat, the song rides a rhythmic acoustic groove, carrying listeners on a journey toward unity and harmony. Written during a turbulent period in history, it became an anthem for the peace movement of the 1970s, resonating with people longing for a better world. Stevens’ earnest plea for love and understanding is infectious, and the song’s upbeat energy makes it impossible not to sing along. Decades later, Peace Train still stands as a universal call for kindness, reminding us that hope and change are always within reach.
5. “The First Cut Is the Deepest” (1967)
Written by Cat Stevens when he was just 19, The First Cut Is the Deepest is one of the most poignant songs about heartbreak ever penned. Featured on his album New Masters, the song captures the bittersweet pain of first love lost, as well as the lingering hope for new beginnings. Its raw, honest lyrics and tender melody struck a chord with listeners, and while Stevens’ version remains a classic, the song found renewed popularity through covers by artists like Rod Stewart and Sheryl Crow. Despite the many interpretations over the years, the original version remains unmatched in its emotional sincerity and youthful vulnerability.
6. “Moonshadow” (1971)
Both whimsical and profound, Moonshadow is one of Stevens’ most enchanting songs. Featured on Teaser and the Firecat, the song was inspired by a personal moment—Stevens watching his own shadow dance under moonlight. While its lilting melody and playful imagery suggest childlike wonder, the lyrics carry a deeper message about optimism and resilience. Even in life’s darkest moments, Moonshadow reminds us to find joy in small, everyday wonders. Its uplifting spirit and sing-along quality have made it a fan favorite, offering comfort and reassurance to those navigating life’s uncertainties.
7. “Where Do the Children Play?” (1970)
With Where Do the Children Play?, Cat Stevens delivers a powerful critique of modernization and environmental destruction. Released on Tea for the Tillerman, the song juxtaposes a gentle acoustic arrangement with lyrics that question whether technological progress is coming at too high a cost. As Stevens mourns the loss of nature and innocence, his words remain strikingly relevant, echoing concerns about climate change and urbanization today. More than just a protest song, Where Do the Children Play? is a heartfelt plea for balance—urging society to consider whether the world we’re building leaves space for future generations to thrive.
8. “Oh Very Young” (1974)
A tender meditation on the fleeting nature of life, Oh Very Young is one of Cat Stevens’ most poetic works. Released on Buddha and the Chocolate Box, the song’s gentle melody and Stevens’ warm voice create a lullaby-like quality that soothes even as it contemplates mortality. The lyrics reflect on youth, time, and the impermanence of all things, offering both nostalgia and encouragement. The refrain, “Will you carry the word?” lingers long after the song ends, posing a question about legacy and what we leave behind. Melancholy yet hopeful, Oh Very Young continues to touch listeners with its delicate beauty.
9. “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out” (1971)
Written for the cult classic film Harold and Maude, If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out is a joyful anthem of self-expression. Its simple, uplifting melody and empowering lyrics encourage listeners to embrace their individuality and live authentically. Though it wasn’t released on an album until years later, the song quickly became a beloved Cat Stevens classic, capturing the film’s spirit of freedom and unconventional joy. Whether played at celebrations, sung around campfires, or discovered by new fans through the movie, If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out remains a timeless reminder to follow one’s own path.
10. “Hard Headed Woman” (1970)
A fiery and passionate exploration of love, Hard Headed Woman showcases Cat Stevens’ ability to blend folk and rock influences. Featured on Tea for the Tillerman, the song expresses a longing for a strong, independent partner—someone who knows what they want and isn’t afraid to stand their ground. The dynamic shifts between introspective verses and energetic choruses add depth to the track, mirroring the emotional push and pull of a meaningful relationship. With its bold declaration of devotion and its rhythmic intensity, Hard Headed Woman stands as one of Stevens’ most compelling love songs, celebrating resilience, passion, and the search for true companionship.