Yusuf Islam Reflects on Life, Faith, and Music in New Memoir

Yusuf Islam, formerly known as Cat Stevens, has released a new memoir titled Cat on the Road to Findout, which delves into his transformative journey from music icon to spiritual seeker. The book, launched in September 2023, offers insights into his early life, conversion to Islam, and the profound impact these experiences have had on his artistry and activism.

In the memoir, Islam recounts three near-death experiences that shaped his outlook on life. The first occurred during his teenage years when he fell while jumping between rooftops, narrowly saved by a friend. The second incident happened at age 20, when he was diagnosed with tuberculosis after coughing blood. The most significant, however, took place in late 1975. While swimming in the Pacific Ocean, he found himself caught in a dangerous current. In those desperate moments, he prayed, promising to dedicate his life to God if he survived. “I thought I could swim well, but I could not fight or beat the ocean. I had only seconds left,” he recalled in a recent video interview.

Islam’s spiritual journey began after his tuberculosis diagnosis, which led him to explore various philosophies, including Buddhism. A pivotal moment came when his brother, David, gifted him a copy of the Quran, igniting a profound shift in his life. “As soon as I read the first few pages, I knew I had found the way to fulfill my prayer’s promise,” he stated. This marked the start of a remarkable transformation, culminating in his conversion to Islam in 1977 and his subsequent name change to Yusuf Islam.

His transition was not without challenges. Islam acknowledged the difficulties of stepping away from a successful music career that had produced hits like Peace Train and Father and Son. He expressed regret for not fully understanding the emotional significance these songs held for his fans. “I could have handled my exit better,” he admitted.

After nearly three decades away from mainstream music, Islam found inspiration to return through his children. In 2002, his son, Muhammad, introduced him to the guitar, prompting Islam to write new music. This led to several albums, including collaborations with notable artists such as Dolly Parton and Paul McCartney. His return has been marked by a renewed commitment to sharing messages of peace and unity through his art.

In his memoir, Islam reflects on various controversies, including his comments regarding the fatwa on author Salman Rushdie. He acknowledges past mistakes and expresses a desire to clarify his views on music and faith, explaining that he does not adhere to rigid interpretations of Islam that prohibit musical expression. “There were some threats coming from the jurisprudence sections of the Muslim community,” he noted, emphasizing that he believes art is a vital part of his faith.

Islam’s activism has also been a significant aspect of his life. He has advocated for Palestinian rights and addressed social issues affecting Muslim children in the UK. His reflections on the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip highlight the urgency of these issues. “The new generation who sees this, they’re not going to forget about it,” he asserted.

The memoir serves as both a personal narrative and a broader commentary on his journey through faith, fame, and the complexities of modern life. “I was looking for answers, and a lot of that was in the music,” he concluded, capturing the essence of his continuous quest for understanding and connection through his art.

As Yusuf Islam embarks on this new chapter, he invites readers to explore the paths he has traveled, offering a candid look at the man behind the music and the faith that has shaped his life.