Yusuf/Cat Stevens Announces Memoir ‘Cat on the Road to Find Out’: A Journey Through Music, Faith, and Rediscovery
Yusuf/Cat Stevens, the legendary singer-songwriter behind timeless classics like "Wild World" and "Peace Train," is set to release his highly anticipated memoir, Cat on the Road to Find Out. This autobiography promises an intimate look into his extraordinary life, from his rise to superstardom in the 1970s to his spiritual awakening and subsequent departure from the music industry, and his eventual return.
The memoir, scheduled for release in the U.K. on September 18th and in North America on October 7th, will delve into Stevens' journey from a young recording artist in London to a global icon. It will explore the creation of his iconic records, including Tea for the Tillerman, which will be inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, and the circumstances surrounding his near-drowning experience in 1975 that led him to embrace Islam and adopt the name Yusuf Islam.
"I’ve been on an amazing journey," Yusuf/Cat Stevens stated, reflecting on his life. "Which began in the narrow streets of London, and led me through the most iconic cities, to perform upon the great stage of Western culture, ascending the dizzying heights of wealth, recognition and artistic pinnacles."
The book will also chart his return to music in the 1990s, culminating in the release of An Other Cup in 2006 – his first pop album in nearly 30 years – and five subsequent albums, including 2023's King of the Land. This period saw Yusuf/Stevens reconnect with his fans through several tours, further solidifying his place in music history. He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2014 and the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019, accolades that recognize his immense contribution to music.
While details are still emerging, Yusuf/Cat Stevens is expected to support Cat on the Road to Find Out with a book tour this fall. In addition, he's scheduled to perform his most high-profile concert in two years on July 11 as part of a triple bill with Neil Young and the Chrome Hearts and Van Morrison at London’s Hyde Park.
Despite past controversies, the memoir offers a chance for Yusuf/Cat Stevens to share his story on his own terms, providing insight into his personal and spiritual transformation. He addresses past misinterpretations, stating, "I was cleverly framed by certain questions. I never supported the fatwa.”
Cat on the Road to Find Out promises to be a captivating read for fans and anyone interested in a compelling story of transformation, faith, and the enduring power of music. It underscores his incredible journey showcasing the highs and lows, and how important it is to find yourself. The audiobook version is even narrated by the Rock and Roll and Songwriting Hall of Famer himself.
What aspects of Yusuf/Cat Stevens' journey are you most interested in exploring through his memoir Share your thoughts and expectations in the comments below!
