15 Best Cat Stevens Songs Ever
Cat Stevens is a popular singer-songwriter with a five-decade career. He has a vast catalog of songs that have stood the test of time and still sound great today.
Here’s our list of the best Cat Stevens songs of all time.
Contents
1. Father and Son
Song Year: 1970
The timeless hit is about the complexities of family relationships. The song follows a conversation between a father and son, as the latter expresses his desire to leave home and forge his path in life. The father, however, cautions his son against acting too hastily, reminding him of the wisdom that comes with age and experience.
The track features a beautiful melody and an acoustic guitar, adding to its depth and emotion. What makes the song so special is its universality. Whether you're a young person struggling to find your place in the world, or a parent trying to guide your child through the ups and downs of life, its message is one that anyone can relate to.
2. Morning Has Broken
Song Year: 1971
The song celebrates the natural world and the beauty of a new day. It features Stevens’s signature acoustic guitar sound accompanied by piano. The artist perfectly captures the joys of a new day and reminds us to appreciate the simple things in life.
The track employs the imagery of birds singing, adding to its calm feel. Its message of appreciation and optimism is just as important now as it was more than half a century ago.
3. Wild World
Song Year: 1970
The song tells the story of a man who has to let go of the woman he loves. The lyrics exude heartache and regret. The man offers sincere guidance to his partner, urging them to be brave as they enter the world to face its challenges. The simple acoustic guitar arrangement perfectly complements Stevens' vocals. Its message of love, heartbreak, and moving on is still relevant today.
4. Oh Very Young
Song Year: 1974
The heartfelt ballad by Cat Stevens celebrates the beauty and innocence of youth while also warning about life’s changing nature. The track became an instant hit, reaching the top ten on Billboard Hot 100. The song features a soft, gentle acoustic guitar melody that perfectly complements Cat Stevens' soothing voice.
Throughout the song, Cat Stevens clearly portrays the uncertainty that comes with growing up. He reminds us that as we age, we lose that sense of curiosity that makes youth special. He encourages the young to cherish this time and not waste it on meaningless things.
5. The Wind
Song Year: 1971
The melancholic ballad is about the uncertainty of life and the inevitability of change. The lyrics draw a picture of a wandering soul, drifting along with the wind, unsure of where to go or what to do. The track’s delicate guitar and Stevens’s tender vocals complement its nostalgic tone.
It's a perfect example of the singer's ability to convey complex emotions through music. The track is considered one of Cat Stevens’s best releases, bearing universal themes of change and acceptance.
6. Peace Train
Song Year: 1971
The song is a powerful call for unity in a world that prioritizes conflict and division too often. It’s one of the best Cat Stevens songs, reaching number one on US Billboard Adult Contemporary. The lyrics convey a message of optimism and togetherness, imploring the listener to help bring about a brighter future for everyone.
The singer uses a train image to symbolize humanity's path to enlightenment. He aims to convince the general public of the need for global unity. Stevens conveys his hope that peace will ultimately win by describing how a train maneuvers through the darkness.
7. Moonshadow
Song Year: 1971
The track combines folk and pop music elements, making it one of Stevens' most recognizable hits. It’s a celebration of the joys of life and living in the moment. Stevens sings about chasing a Moonshadow, representing the fleeting moments of happiness and joy we all experience.
He encourages listeners to look for the positive side of things and never let their worries get the best of them. The song’s catchy melody and Stevens' playful guitar riff create an irresistible beat.
8. Where Do The Children Play
Song Year: 1970
The track talks about the kind of world we are leaving for future generations. The song's lyrics highlight the increasing industrialization and urbanization of the world, as Stevens sings about the disappearance of open spaces and the destruction of natural habitats.
He encourages listeners to reflect on their actions' consequences and consider the kind of world they want their children and grandchildren to have.
9. On The Road To Find Out
Song Year:
The song is about the protagonist's journey as he travels through different places and meets different people. It’s a contemplative and reflective exploration of the human condition. It speaks of the universal experience of searching for meaning and purpose in one’s life.
The song has a catchy melody and thought-provoking lyrics typical of Stevens' work. You can hear his signature acoustic guitar and passionate vocals throughout the song.
10. The First Cut Is The Deepest
Song Year: 1967
The song is about the pain and heartbreak that comes with first love. Stevens uses a physical cut as a metaphor to symbolize the emotional scars one suffers when their significant other leaves.
Many artists have covered the song, but Stevens' original version remains popular. It's an honest portrayal of the ups and downs of love and a testament to Stevens’s songwriting talent. The track’s relatable lyrics make it a great pick for listeners of all ages and backgrounds.
11. Another Saturday Night
Song Year: 1974
The song depicts the feelings of loneliness and isolation. The lyrics follow the narrator as he sits alone at home, feeling down. He notes that he doesn't have any friends to spend the evening with, so he can't afford to go out and have a good time.
The song has a catchy melody that contrasts nicely with the melancholic lyrics. It was an instant hit, debuting at number one in Canada and top ten on the US Billboard Hot 100.
12. I’m Gonna Get Me a Gun
Song Year: 1967
The song’s protagonist is a young man considering purchasing a firearm because he’s fed up with his demanding, unrewarding job and the apparent disrespect he gets from his colleagues.
The track came out some years before the United States began experiencing the menace of workplace violence. Stevens’s concept of getting a gun may be a commentary on society's fascination with violence and aggression.
13. Hard Headed Woman
Song Year: 1970
Lyrically, the song is about carefree individuals who don't put much thought into what they do. After trying relationships with them, Stevens concludes that although they’re entertaining, he needs a lady with whom he can start a family. The song features a catchy rhythm and blues-inspired melody, with Stevens’s vocals shining throughout.
14. Lady D’Arbanville
Song Year: 1970
The song tells the story of a man grieving the loss of a relationship. The track’s inspiration was Stevens’s breakup with his longtime girlfriend, Patti D'Arbanville. The melody is gentle and melancholic, with Stevens’s voice conveying a sense of sadness and longing. The lyrics vividly depict the emotions and thoughts of someone going through a difficult time.
15. Can't Keep It In
Song Year: 1972
The song is about a man who has just started dating a wonderful woman, and he's been hiding something because he’s embarrassed to let it out. However, he acknowledges that it’s impossible to keep the secret anymore. It features an acoustic guitar-driven sound and showcases Cat Stevens’s vocal range and emotional depth.
Top Cat Stevens Songs, Final Thoughts
Cat Stevens is a legendary musician whose songs appeal to listeners of all ages. His soulful melodies have made him one of the most influential artists of his generation. Whatever your mood or taste, these top Cat Stevens songs on our list will speak to you on a profound level.
