Yusuf Islam (CE3)

Cat Stevens, the popular musician from the 60’s and 70’s has his own website where he summarizes his life story, promotes his religion, and accepts contributions to his charity fund.  The website has an interesting setup that is interactive and flash-based where the viewer can learn all about Stevens and his beliefs.

Cat Stevens was born into a Roman Catholic family, and he attended a school based on the same religion.  It was in his late teens that Stevens became famous with a few hit singles.  A few years later when he was at the height of his career, he contracted tuberculosis and became extremely ill.  It was during his recovery that he realized he wanted to change his life from that point on.  He continued to make music but it was filled with his personal experiences and questions in life.

After he made several more albums he claims to have had another life changing experience.  While swimming off the coast line near Malibu, he says that he lost control and “had no power to swim.”  While this was happening he called out to God and said that he would be God’s messenger and do work for him.  It was at this point that Steven says a wave swept him to shore and that he knew there was a higher power governing him.

Stevens looked for answers to his questions in several different religions and it wasn’t until he discovered the path of Islam that he ceased his search.  At this point in his life he completely gave up his music career and changed his name to Yusuf Islam.  His whole life then revolved around charity work and organizations that he established.  Years later he came back to the music scene with songs that were more autobiographical and spiritual.

Other than telling the story of Yusuf Islam, the website also has audio and video samples of his music, a discography, a shop where you can buy his music, and an area where you can donate to one of his charity organizations.  Overall the website is nicely structured and has an interactive feel to it.  If you would like to know more about the artist this is the place to look.

http://catstevens.com/