Yusuf / Cat Stevens Cancels North American Book Tour Due to Visa Issues

Visa troubles derail Yusuf / Cat Stevens' North American book tour plans, leaving fans hoping for a future Peace Train journey.

A Sudden Pause on a Much-Anticipated Tour

I still remember the excitement bubbling up when I first heard Yusuf / Cat Stevens was hitting the road to promote his memoir Cat on the Road to Findout. With promises of intimate conversations and stripped-down performances, it felt like a rare chance to relive the magic of a musical icon who has defined generations. But alas, the tour has hit a sudden bump — visa issues have forced the cancellation of all North American dates.

Yusuf himself shared the frustration, “Waiting months for visa approvals, we held out as long as we could. However, at this point, the production logistics necessary for my show cannot be arranged in time. I am really upset! Not least for my fans who have bought tickets and made travel plans to see me perform.”

The Tour That Might Still Be

Fans might still hold a sliver of hope, as Yusuf mentioned that North American audiences could yet see the tour if the visa approvals come through eventually. “Those dates would be some time away because of other travel tour plans but, hopefully, fans will be able to hop on the Peace Train route at some time in the future.”

It’s a bittersweet message — a promise of music and stories on the horizon, if only the bureaucratic wheels will turn favorably. Unfortunately, details about the visa complications remain under wraps, which only adds to the mystery surrounding this abrupt break.

Cat on the Road to Findout: The Memoir

The memoir itself was recently released in the U.K. and is slated for North American release on October 7 through Genesis Publications. It’s a beautiful chance to dive deep into Yusuf’s journey — both the highs and the unexpected turns.

From the folk-rock anthems that echoed across the '70s to his spiritual rebirth and humanitarian efforts, the book offers insight into a man who’s lived more than just a musical life. You can still enjoy this rich narrative, because, as Yusuf lightheartedly noted, “Tour delays should not affect the book, which you’ll still be able to enjoy. The obvious benefit of it being, books don’t need visas!”

A Walk Through Yusuf’s Musical Evolution

It’s wild to think about how, after a decade of legendary songs like “Father and Son”, Wild World, Morning Has Broken, The First Cut Is the Deepest, and Peace Train, Yusuf Stevens made a dramatic exit from the music scene in 1978. His conversion to Islam marked a profound shift, adopting the name Yusuf Islam and channeling his energies into philanthropy and humanitarian causes.

For years, the music world waited, and Yusuf kept a low profile — no regular recordings or performances in the style that made him a household name. Then, starting in the early 2000s, he began to return, gradually blending the old with the new, captivating old fans and winning over new ones.

Looking Ahead: The Peace Train Will Roll Again

Though the disappointment of the canceled tour is palpable, it’s hard not to feel optimistic about what the future holds. Yusuf’s mention of the “Peace Train route” being a possibility down the line hints at a reunion of sorts — a chance for fans to once again hear those timeless melodies live and share in the stories behind them.

And while the tour might be postponed, the memoir offers a front-row seat into Yusuf’s life, his struggles, and his triumphs — no visa required.

FAQ

• What caused Yusuf / Cat Stevens to cancel his North American book tour?
  Visa issues prevented the necessary approvals, making it impossible to arrange the production logistics on time.
• Will the North American tour happen later?
  There’s a possibility if the visa approvals come through eventually, though those dates would be scheduled further in the future.
• When is Cat on the Road to Findout available in North America?
  The memoir will be released in North America on October 7 via Genesis Publications.
• Has Yusuf been active in music recently?
  Yes, after a long hiatus, Yusuf returned to recording and performing in the early 2000s and continues to be active.
• Why did Yusuf Stevens stop making music for a while?
  After converting to Islam and adopting the name Yusuf Islam in 1978, he focused on philanthropy and humanitarian efforts, stepping back from his previous musical style.

If you’re inspired by Yusuf’s journey and want a piece of music history to brighten your space, consider shopping for your favorite album cover poster at our store. It’s a warm way to celebrate a legendary artist and keep his spirit close every day. Shop now.