It has been with great anticipation that I awaited the arrival of Yusuf Islam to the Northeast. Despite not having the privilege of seeing him live at the Hall of Fame show, as Iman does, I am thrilled that he is actively making music and doing so in my own back yard.
His showing on Jimmy Fallon nearly sent me into cardiac arrest. Older and behind dark shades he performed a medley of “First Cut Is The Deepest” and “Wild World” accompanied by The Roots. First off The Roots need to chill, between this and their hanging out with Elvis Costello I’m getting a bit jealous. But there they stood in full form behind a man and his guitar. Vocally as sound as ever and with the calming presence of a skilled angel Yusuf Islam delivered 2 classics in one while sporting a Teaser and The Firecat T-shirt that I would sever my carotid artery for.
I have no idea why his voice is so incredibly uplifting and soothing to my ear but it is and I am beyond thrilled that he is out there and still going strong. One issue, he is now going by the name Yusuf. Dropping Islam and becoming part of the single game name… joining Cher and Prince and Madonna. Not too keen on that but a guy has to do what he gotta do.
NBC’s website offered up “The Wind” done gorgeously and all alone with a man on a stool on a dark empty stage. Breathtaking. He spoke only that he was finally home, glad to be home and good bye, with a smirk. And gone.
If I cannot see him perform live there is no one more worthy that Iman to do so. We Cat fans are hardcore, we Yusuf fans just the same. Fuck politics and fuck religion and open up to his message. Truly inspirational and bullshit free uplifting and thought provoking music, what more could you want?
