Few artists have captured the hearts of listeners across generations quite like Cat Stevens. With his unmistakable voice, poetic lyrics, and soul-stirring melodies, Stevens—now known as Yusuf Islam—crafted some of the most timeless and meaningful songs in folk-rock history. His music isn’t just about catchy tunes; it’s about deep emotions, life’s biggest questions, and the search for love, peace, and understanding.
From the heartfelt wisdom of Father and Son to the uplifting optimism of If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out, Stevens’ songs have provided the soundtrack to countless lives. His ability to blend folk, pop, and rock with profound storytelling made him one of the most influential singer-songwriters of the 1970s. Whether he was reflecting on love, loss, or the state of the world, his music carried a sincerity and warmth that continues to resonate today.
In this celebration of his greatest hits, we’re counting down the top 10 most popular Cat Stevens songs of all time—tracks that have stood the test of time and continue to inspire fans old and new. Get ready to revisit the songs that made him a legend! 🎶
1. Wild World (1970)
“Wild World” remains one of Cat Stevens’ most iconic songs, released in 1970 on his landmark album Tea for the Tillerman. With its blend of folk and pop influences, the song carries a bittersweet melody that perfectly complements its reflective lyrics about love and loss. Stevens wrote it as his relationship with actress Patti D’Arbanville was coming to an end, and the song serves as both a farewell and a heartfelt warning. The acoustic guitar-driven arrangement, paired with his warm yet wistful vocals, gives the track an intimate and deeply personal feel. Despite the sadness in the lyrics, there’s a gentle wisdom in the song’s message—letting go can be painful, but life moves on. Over the years, Wild World has been covered by numerous artists, but Stevens’ original remains the definitive version, filled with raw emotion and sincerity.
2. Father and Son (1970)
A timeless generational conversation set to music, Father and Son is one of Cat Stevens’ most poignant and emotionally resonant songs. Released on Tea for the Tillerman, it tells the story of a father giving cautious advice to his son, who is eager to carve out his own path in life. Stevens brilliantly shifts vocal tones between the two perspectives—gentle and measured for the father, passionate and urgent for the son—making the song feel like an actual dialogue. The melody is simple yet powerful, allowing the heartfelt lyrics to shine. The themes of youthful rebellion and parental concern are universal, making this song deeply relatable to listeners of all ages. Even decades after its release, Father and Son continues to strike an emotional chord, solidifying its place as one of folk-rock’s greatest songs.
3. Morning Has Broken (1971)
Unlike most of Cat Stevens’ songs, Morning Has Broken is not an original composition but a reimagining of a Christian hymn first published in 1931. Featured on his 1971 album Teaser and the Firecat, Stevens’ version transforms the hymn into something magical, thanks in large part to Rick Wakeman’s elegant piano arrangement. The song celebrates new beginnings, using nature-inspired imagery to evoke a sense of peace, hope, and renewal. Stevens’ gentle vocals and the uplifting melody have made it a beloved choice for weddings, church services, and moments of reflection. Its spiritual yet universal message continues to resonate, and its beauty has solidified it as one of Stevens’ most cherished and enduring recordings.
4. Peace Train (1971)
With its infectious rhythm and uplifting message, Peace Train is a song that has transcended generations as an anthem of hope and unity. Released on Teaser and the Firecat in 1971, the track combines folk and rock elements, with a steady acoustic strumming pattern and a driving beat that mimics the forward motion of a train. The lyrics envision a world without conflict, urging people to come together in the name of peace and understanding. At a time of global unrest in the early ’70s, the song resonated deeply, becoming a rallying cry for change. Even today, its message remains just as powerful, proving that music can be a force for unity and optimism. Peace Train continues to inspire those who long for a better world.
5. Moonshadow (1971)
Few songs capture a sense of childlike wonder and optimism as beautifully as Moonshadow. Released on Teaser and the Firecat, the song was inspired by a moment when Stevens, walking along the beach, noticed his own shadow illuminated by the moonlight. The lyrics celebrate finding joy in life’s simplest moments, embracing both the light and the darkness. The playful acoustic arrangement and uplifting chorus make it one of Stevens’ most enchanting songs, and its message of gratitude in the face of adversity has made it a longtime fan favorite. Whether taken as a metaphor for resilience or simply a whimsical reflection on life, Moonshadow remains a song full of warmth and inspiration.
6. The First Cut Is the Deepest (1967)
Before it became a hit for Rod Stewart and Sheryl Crow, The First Cut Is the Deepest was originally written and recorded by Cat Stevens for his 1967 album New Masters. This heartbreak ballad captures the raw pain of lost love, with Stevens’ tender, emotional vocal delivery making every word feel deeply personal. The song’s simple yet haunting melody enhances its melancholic theme, making it one of the most poignant reflections on love and heartache ever written. Though many artists have covered it, Stevens’ original version retains a special charm—there’s something undeniably moving about hearing the song from the perspective of the one who penned it.
7. Where Do the Children Play? (1970)
Opening Tea for the Tillerman, Where Do the Children Play? is a socially conscious song that questions the consequences of industrialization, pollution, and urban expansion. With its soft but urgent acoustic arrangement, Stevens paints a picture of a world increasingly dominated by concrete and machinery, wondering if future generations will still have a place to grow and thrive. The song’s environmental and humanitarian themes remain just as relevant today as they were in 1970, making it a timeless anthem of reflection. Its heartfelt lyrics and passionate delivery continue to inspire listeners to consider the kind of world we are leaving for those who come after us.
8. Oh Very Young (1974)
A gentle meditation on the fleeting nature of youth and life itself, Oh Very Young was released on Buddha and the Chocolate Box in 1974. The song’s soft, dreamlike melody and delicate piano accompaniment give it an almost lullaby-like quality. Stevens’ lyrics are both wistful and encouraging, acknowledging the impermanence of innocence while offering a message of hope. The song became one of his biggest hits in the U.S., striking a deep emotional chord with audiences who found comfort in its wisdom. Its message about embracing life while we can continues to resonate, making it one of Stevens’ most beloved songs.
9. Hard Headed Woman (1970)
A standout track from Tea for the Tillerman, Hard Headed Woman is a passionate song about seeking a deep, meaningful love rather than a fleeting romance. Stevens delivers a dynamic vocal performance, backed by a driving acoustic guitar rhythm that adds intensity to the track. The lyrics express his longing for a strong-willed partner—someone who will stand by him through life’s challenges. The song’s energy and heartfelt message make it one of the most powerful moments on the album, showcasing Stevens’ ability to combine deeply personal storytelling with compelling melodies.
10. If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out (1971)
Originally written for the 1971 film Harold and Maude, If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out is a celebration of freedom and self-expression. With its simple yet uplifting melody, the song encourages listeners to embrace life on their own terms and follow their own path. The lyrics perfectly complement the themes of the film, which tells the story of an unconventional romance and the importance of living authentically. Though it wasn’t initially included on a studio album, the song has since become one of Stevens’ most beloved compositions. Its message of individuality and optimism continues to inspire those who refuse to conform to expectations.
Samuel Moore 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.
