Yusuf Islam Reflects on His Journey from Stardom to Spirituality

Yusuf Islam, formerly known as the pop icon Cat Stevens, has embarked on a reflective journey through his life in his new memoir, *Cat on the Road to Findout*, released in October 2023. The book delves into his transformation from a celebrated musician to a devoted spiritual seeker and philanthropist, addressing his personal battles and the evolution of his beliefs.

Born as Steven Georgiou, Islam became a prominent figure in the music world during the 1960s and 1970s. His initial fame was marked by hits such as “Peace Train” and “Moonshadow.” However, his life took a pivotal turn after a series of near-death experiences, including a life-threatening incident in 1975 when he nearly drowned in the Pacific Ocean. In a recent interview, Islam recounted, “I thought I could swim well, but I could not fight or beat the ocean. I had only seconds left.” In desperation, he prayed for survival, promising to dedicate his life to God.

This moment of vulnerability catalyzed his spiritual journey. Following his recovery, he was introduced to the Quran by his brother, which profoundly impacted his life. Islam stated, “As soon as I read the first few pages, I knew I had found the way to fulfil my prayer’s promise.” His conversion to Islam in 1977 led to a significant shift in his career; he changed his name to Yusuf Islam and ceased recording popular music. This decision created a gap in his artistic output that lasted nearly three decades.

Islam has since acknowledged the challenges of his departure from the music scene. He admitted that he did not fully grasp the emotional connection fans had to his songs. “I could have handled my exit better,” he reflected, recognizing the disappointment felt by listeners who cherished his music.

Despite his initial reluctance, Islam eventually returned to music, inspired by his son Muhammad’s interest in rock. In 2002, Muhammad brought a guitar into their home, which prompted Islam to reconnect with his musical roots. “The next day, he’d written a song. That’s how quick it was,” Muhammad recalled.

Over the years, Islam has released several albums, including *The Life of the Last Prophet* and collaborations with contemporary artists like Dolly Parton and Paul McCartney. His current work reflects not only his musical talent but also his commitment to advocating for peace and understanding within and outside the Muslim community. In his 2014 book, *Why I Still Carry a Guitar*, he articulated his belief that music is a vital medium for expression and connection.

Islam has also engaged in charitable work, focusing on supporting Palestinian causes and advocating for Muslim children in England. He has faced scrutiny and controversy, notably regarding his comments about the fatwa on author Salman Rushdie. Reflecting on these moments in his memoir, he expressed regret over his past misunderstandings and the impact they had on his reputation.

As he navigates the complexities of his identity, Islam continues to grapple with broader global issues. He has voiced concerns about the ongoing violence in Gaza, calling it “a watershed moment.” He feels that the current generation will not forget the events taking place in the region. “The new generation who sees this, they’re not going to forget about it,” he stated.

Yusuf Islam’s memoir serves as a candid exploration of his past, highlighting the tension between his celebrity status and his spiritual convictions. With his return to music and a clearer understanding of his faith, he aims to inspire others to seek their own paths. “There are some crooked paths, for sure, but they’re all paths towards something higher, ultimately divine,” he concluded, reinforcing his commitment to a journey of growth and understanding.

As he reflects on his life and career, Islam reminds us that the quest for truth and meaning is a universal journey, one that continues to resonate across generations.