Cat Stevens

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  • Year:
    2014
  • Inducted by:
    Art Garfunkel
  • Category:
    Performers
Cat Stevens

Introduction

A true Seventies singer-songwriter—Cat Stevens gave hushed, mesmerizing performances.

Stevens’ body of work is one of sophistication, truth-seeking and creativity informed by spirituality. His music was both what he was looking for and his way of looking.

Hall of Fame Essay

2014

Jim Farber

Use the fewest words, sing in the quietest voice, place fingers on strings with the lightest touch. Such are the apparent strategies of Cat Stevens.

In his classic songs, there’s a hush at the core, a whisper willed by a singer in search of focus. Take “The Wind.” The vocal that sits at the song’s center doesn’t seem so much performed as channeled, as if it’s emanating not from the singer, but from the inner mind of the listener.

The only accompaniment: two acoustic guitars that stroke and trace the vocals, forming chords that curl into rounds. Listen closely and you’ll hear a third element - uncredited, but palpable.

Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Program Cover 2014
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Cat Stevens Quote
Sensitivity with a bass voice
Art Garfunkel

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Collection

2008 Gibson J-200 Cat Stevens
2008 Gibson J-200 Acoustic Guitar

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Gallery

Photography: Getty/WireImage