Who's behind the notes? Discover Cat Stevens: From Folk Icon to Yusuf Islam
"Morning Has Broken" is a popular song written by English singer-songwriter Cat Stevens (born Steven Georgiou, later known as Yusuf Islam). Here are some interesting facts about the song and Cat Stevens:
Inspirational Source: The lyrics for "Morning Has Broken" were actually adapted from a hymn of the same name written by Eleanor Farjeon in 1931. Cat Stevens found the hymn in a hymnal and was inspired to create his own version of it.
Album Inclusion: The song was included on Cat Stevens' 1971 album "Teaser and the Firecat," which became one of his most successful albums. The album cover also features a whimsical illustration of Teaser and the Firecat.
Commercial Success: "Morning Has Broken" became one of Cat Stevens' biggest hits, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also charted well in other countries, including the United Kingdom.
Instrumentation: The song is known for its simple and beautiful arrangement. It features Cat Stevens' vocals along with piano, guitar, and subtle orchestration. The gentle melody and uplifting lyrics contribute to its timeless appeal.
Religious Connections: The song's lyrics are often interpreted as having spiritual or religious themes, which is consistent with Cat Stevens' exploration of his faith. After converting to Islam in the late 1970s, he stepped away from his music career for a period, but eventually returned to recording and performing.
Cultural Impact: "Morning Has Broken" has been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the years. It has also been covered by various artists, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Cat Stevens' Career: Cat Stevens is known for his folk and rock music and is considered one of the most influential singer-songwriters of his era. Apart from "Morning Has Broken," some of his other well-known songs include "Wild World," "Father and Son," "Peace Train," and "Moonshadow."
Charitable Contributions: In his later years, Yusuf Islam (formerly Cat Stevens) became involved in various humanitarian and philanthropic efforts. He donated a substantial amount of the song's royalties to various charitable causes.
"Morning Has Broken" remains a beloved and timeless song, cherished for its evocative lyrics and soothing melody. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Cat Stevens' songwriting talent and ability to create music that resonates with people across generations.