YUSUF Islam

Chinese Whiskers (FAQs)

How Does He Feel About Cat?

I once wrote to the record companies asking them to stop selling my albums. But this was a radical reaction based on the harsh criticism I was experiencing at the time from the press and media in general. But I fully appreciate now how my songs and words have brought hope to many to see life in a positive light.

Today, my songs of the past represent a very important and dynamic period of my life and stand as a record of my innermost spiritual hopes and inspired dreams. Inspiration has always been a sublimely mysterious experience. My song, ‘The Wind’ makes reference to that mysterious form of inner-journey, which takes place beneath the surface of our conscious thoughts.

Not all my songs were spiritual, but so long as the words stay within moral limits and do not direct people towards harming themselves or others, there is nothing wrong with them per se. Much of my royalties from previous music was and still is distributed to charitable causes.

It’s also clear that my songs have helped many people over the years. I have received many emails and letters from people of all faiths, explaining how my songs and words have brought comfort and hope and the ability to see life in a positive light again, for that I am eternally grateful to the Power above:
“As for the blessings of your Lord, express them [aloud]” [1]

[1] The Qur’an: ‘The Morning Light’ (93), verse 11
Tweet