Yusuf Islam Website

For my Multicultural Literature class, I explored the website of Yusuf Islam…more commonly known as Cat Stevens. The website is http://yusufislam.com. The site is “devoted to giving the in depth story behind Yusuf’s legendary music career, and the pioneering work in charity and education that he has been involved in over the decades.” By clicking the link “Sing” you are taken to an interactive site. There you can explore all about Yusuf; his biography, current news, videos, audio, answers to frequently asked questions, and so much more. I went for the biography first because I wasn’t as familiar with Yusuf or his previous persona of Cat Stevens. Since that was in the 60s and 70s and I wasn’t even born yet.

After getting a sneak peek of his music in class, I was intrigued to explore this further. Through the site I was able to hear and learn about his music career. One thing that I felt differentiates from his music as Cat Stevens and now as Yusuf Islam is the theme of the songs. This is clearly just an opinion since I have not studied any of his work. But the feeling I got from his music as Yusuf is to slow down. Look at the beautiful things around in this world. Cherish the gifts that God has given you. Life is not all about the money and possessions that you can acquire, but what you do with it. Perhaps it is because he got back into touch with his heritage or perhaps that he is just “older and wiser” that it seems to me that Yusuf is all about helping and doing for others instead of being focused on himself. It reminds me of American Idol’s campaign of “Give back”. I believe that people that are blessed with things should in-turn give back to those that are in need. Like Yusuf, if we live the way God intended everyone would be better off.

I really like this website. It is informational and gives you inspiration to help others. It also shows that through your selfless acts you are rewarded in ways that you never expected.