Yusuf/Cat Stevens, the enigmatic musical icon whose voice defined a generation, has announced the upcoming release of his deeply personal memoir, Cat On The Road To Findout. Set to launch in the UK on September 18th, this autobiography promises an intimate and soul-baring exploration of the triumphs, trials, and spiritual quest that have marked his remarkable life.
More than a simple recounting of events, Yusuf/Cat Stevens' story, as unveiled in his own words, offers a backstage pass to the evolving consciousness of an artist who has seemingly lived multiple lifetimes. From his early days as a folk troubadour in London to the dizzying heights of 60s pop stardom with hits like ‘Matthew and Son’ and ‘The First Cut is the Deepest’, his music formed a poignant soundtrack to the journey of self-discovery. The 70s saw him reach a new level of global resonance with timeless anthems such as 'Wild World’, ‘Father and Son’, ‘Peace Train’, and 'Morning Has Broken', solidifying his place as a generational voice.
However, his sudden departure from the limelight and embrace of Islam, leading to his name change to Yusuf Islam, left many fans yearning for deeper understanding. Cat On The Road To Findout finally bridges this gap, revealing the intricate complexities and intellectual reasoning behind his profound transformation. This voyage, as he describes it, led him through diverse religions and philosophies, ultimately culminating in his return to music and art, now sharing the wisdom gleaned from his extraordinary experiences with those who continue to admire his enduring message of hope.
Reflecting on his journey, Yusuf/Cat Stevens shared, “I’ve been on an amazing journey, which began in the narrow streets of London, and led me through the most iconic cities… freely exploring vast ranges of religions and philosophies… to arrive at the House of One God in Abrahamic Arabia.” He credits a "luminous Book" for alchemizing his thoughts and beliefs, teaching him "Oneness" and his purpose within the universe.
Following a near-fatal battle with tuberculosis early in his career, a pivotal moment that ignited his spiritual seeking, and later a near-drowning experience in 1975, Yusuf’s life took a decisive spiritual turn. His subsequent dedication to God, family, and extensive humanitarian work earned him prestigious international accolades, including the World Award for humanitarian relief and the Man of Peace Award.
The current chapter of his life sees Yusuf seamlessly blending his past and present, now known as Yusuf/Cat Stevens. With over 100 million records sold and billions of streams, his iconic voice and poetic lyrics continue to inspire, now interwoven with a deep commitment to activism and altruism, advocating for faith education, ecological awareness, and global peace.
Cat On The Road To Findout, enriched with Yusuf’s own drawings and archival imagery, promises a raw and honest account of his remarkable odyssey. This long-awaited memoir offers readers an unprecedented glimpse into the heart and mind of a true musical visionary. The book will be available in hardback, ebook, and audiobook formats, with the author himself narrating the audio version. Pre-orders are now open at catstevens.com, where fans can also find information about his upcoming book tour.
