Cat Stevens’ ‘Morning Has Broken’: The 1971 Anthem of Hope That Continues to Inspire Generations”
In 1971, Cat Stevens released his rendition of “Morning Has Broken,” a song that would become one of his most cherished hits. Originally a Christian hymn penned by English author Eleanor Farjeon in 1931, the song was set to a traditional Scottish Gaelic tune called “Bunessan.” Stevens stumbled upon this hymn during a creative lull and decided to adapt it for his album “Teaser and the Firecat.” His version, featuring the intricate piano arrangements of Rick Wakeman from the band Yes, breathed new life into the piece, transforming it into a timeless classic.
Born as Steven Demetre Georgiou on July 21, 1948, in London, Cat Stevens was the youngest child of a Greek Cypriot father and a Swedish mother. Growing up above the family-owned Moulin Rouge restaurant in the bustling Soho district, Stevens was immersed in a melting pot of cultures and musical influences. His early exposure to the vibrant sounds of the West End ignited his passion for music, leading him to learn the piano and later the guitar. By the age of 15, inspired by the Beatles, he was already crafting his own songs, setting the stage for a remarkable musical journey.
Stevens’ initial foray into the music industry saw him adopting the stage name “Cat Stevens,” a moniker he believed would be more memorable to audiences. His debut album, “Matthew and Son,” released in 1967, showcased his budding talent and produced hits like the title track and “I Love My Dog.” However, the pressures of early fame and a grueling schedule took a toll on his health. In 1969, Stevens was diagnosed with tuberculosis, a life-threatening illness that forced him into a prolonged period of hospitalization and recovery. This hiatus became a turning point, prompting deep introspection and a reevaluation of his life’s direction.
Emerging from his convalescence with a renewed sense of purpose, Stevens underwent a significant transformation in his musical style. Shedding the heavily orchestrated pop sound of his early work, he embraced a more introspective folk-rock aesthetic. This evolution was evident in his 1970 album “Mona Bone Jakon,” which, while modest in commercial success, laid the groundwork for his subsequent breakthrough. The following year, “Tea for the Tillerman” catapulted Stevens into international stardom, featuring enduring tracks like “Wild World” and “Father and Son,” songs that resonated deeply with audiences and showcased his profound songwriting abilities.
The success of “Tea for the Tillerman” was swiftly followed by “Teaser and the Firecat” in 1971, an album that further solidified Stevens’ place in the pantheon of great singer-songwriters. Among its standout tracks was “Morning Has Broken.” Stevens’ rendition of the hymn was not merely a cover but a reimagining that introduced the song to a wider audience. The collaboration with Rick Wakeman added a layer of sophistication, with Wakeman’s piano interludes complementing Stevens’ soothing vocals. The song’s celebration of the dawn and the beauty of creation struck a chord with listeners, leading it to reach number six on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1972.
The journey to recording “Morning Has Broken” was not without its challenges. The original hymn was relatively short, and Stevens’ producer, Paul Samwell-Smith, insisted that it needed to be extended to fit the album’s format. This led Stevens to seek out Rick Wakeman, who was then an emerging talent in the progressive rock scene. Wakeman’s contribution was pivotal; his elegant piano arrangement provided the perfect introduction and conclusion to the song, as well as a memorable middle section. Interestingly, Wakeman was initially uncredited for his work on the track, a situation that was later rectified, with Stevens ensuring he received due recognition and compensation.
Beyond its commercial success, “Morning Has Broken” holds a special place in Stevens’ discography as a reflection of his evolving spiritual journey. The song’s themes of renewal and gratitude resonated with his own quest for meaning and purpose. In the mid-1970s, following a near-death experience while swimming off the coast of Malibu, Stevens began exploring various spiritual paths, eventually converting to Islam in 1977 and adopting the name Yusuf Islam. This profound transformation led him to step away from the music industry at the height of his fame, dedicating himself to educational and philanthropic endeavors within the Muslim community.
After a long hiatus, Yusuf Islam returned to the music scene in the 2000s, reengaging with his earlier work and introducing it to new generations. His performances of “Morning Has Broken” during this period were imbued with a deeper sense of spirituality, reflecting his life experiences and beliefs. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message of appreciating the simple, yet profound, beauty of each new day—a theme that transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
The legacy of “Morning Has Broken” extends beyond Stevens’ rendition. The hymn has been embraced by various artists and communities, each bringing their own interpretations to its timeless message. Its inclusion in numerous hymnals and its frequent performance in religious and secular settings alike attest to its universal appeal. For many, the song serves as a gentle reminder of the ever-present opportunity for renewal and the simple joys that each morning brings.
In reflecting on the impact of “Morning Has Broken,” it’s evident that the song represents a confluence of artistic collaboration, personal transformation, and universal themes. Cat Stevens’ ability to take a traditional hymn and infuse it with contemporary relevance speaks to his talent as a musician and his sensitivity as a human being. The song remains a testament to the power of music to inspire, uplift, and connect people across different walks of life.
Today, “Morning Has Broken” continues to be a staple in Cat Stevens’ performances, often eliciting heartfelt responses from audiences worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and the sincerity with which it was delivered. As the years pass, the song’s celebration of new beginnings and the beauty of the natural world remains as relevant and inspiring as ever.
