BACKPAGES JOURNAL, Jan 9, 2024
New walker attache' case, Cat Stevens, Writing Tips. The secret world of writing daily.
I’ve got to admit it.
There are times when having to use a walker to stand and get around is wearisome. Like when you want to carry your coffee or your notebook with you to another room.
A real drag. Back when I only used a cane, at least I had one hand free. Not anymore.
You can’t put your stuff in your back pocket or shirt pocket. You can’t carry it under your arm. But I have to say Amazon just delivered the solution to some of my problems. It’s not bulky like having part of a shipping cart welded to your walker.
It’s a lower profile than that.
It’s more like having a handy, yet professional-looking attache case with you.
it comes with a cup-holder and a key chain. It holds a couple of phones, a journal, a magazine, and a laptop or Chromebook.. It’s the Swiss Army knife of walker accessories. I think it was a steal… all that problem solving for such a low price.
If any of you readers think this would be cool HERE it is. Of course, you know with Amazon links, I make some money if you use my link, even though it doesn’t cost you any more.
This morning was a painful one for the old feet, starting around 3:30. I tried to sleep, but could not. It did start me thinking about not having feet, which made me start thinking about Cat Stevens, and a song on the Tea for the Tillerman album, Moonshadow… “If I ever lose my teeth, eyes, legs…”
If you’re a vinyl fanatic as am I, it’s still available. I started listening to him in 1967 on WLS, Chicago. None of the stations, WKDA or WMAK, in Nashville, played “Matthew and Son,” and I did like it a lot.
What’s the Deal with Cat Stevens?
Cat Stevens’, birth name is Steven Demetre Georgiou. He was born on July 21, 1948, in London, England. He later adopted the stage name Yusuf Islam after converting to Islam in the late 1970s. Cat Stevens is a British singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist who gained prominence in the late 1960s and 1970s.
Early Life and Career-
Early Musical Pursuits
Cat Stevens began his musical career in the mid-1960s, initially gaining attention as a folk singer-songwriter. His early albums include "Matthew and Son" (1967) and "New Masters" (1967).
"Matthew and Son" is the debut studio album by Cat Stevens, released in 1967. Cat Stevens, born Steven Demetre Georgiou, was a young singer-songwriter at the time and had gained attention with his early singles. The album, named after its lead single "Matthew and Son," marked the beginning of Cat Stevens' career as a recording artist.
Key Information about the Album:
Release Date: March 10, 1967
Genre: Pop, Rock, Folk
Label: Deram Records
Notable Tracks
"Matthew and Son": The title track, "Matthew and Son," was a hit single that showcased Cat Stevens' pop sensibilities. The song tells the story of the struggles of working life.
"I Love My Dog": Another notable track, "I Love My Dog," was one of Stevens' early hits. The song reflects on companionship and the loyalty of a dog.
"Here Comes My Baby": While not as well-known as the later version by The Tremeloes, Cat Stevens' original version of "Here Comes My Baby" is a standout track on the album.
Themes and Style
"Matthew and Son" reflects the pop and rock influences of the time, showcasing Cat Stevens' ability to craft catchy melodies and lyrics. The album explores themes such as the challenges of urban life, the quest for identity, and the complexities of relationships.
Reception and Legacy
The album received positive reviews and marked the beginning of Cat Stevens' successful career. While it did not achieve the same level of acclaim as some of his later works, "Matthew and Son" laid the foundation for Stevens' evolution as a singer-songwriter.
Over the years, Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam's music from this era has been appreciated for its nostalgic charm and the early glimpses of the artist's songwriting talent. Despite a somewhat different musical direction in his later career, the album remains a notable chapter in the Cat Stevens discography.
Breakthrough Success
His breakthrough came with the album "Tea for the Tillerman" (1970), which included iconic songs such as "Wild World," "Father and Son," and "Peace Train." The album's introspective and reflective lyrics, combined with Stevens' distinctive voice, resonated with audiences.
Conversion to Islam
In 1977, Cat Stevens experienced a near-death experience when he nearly drowned off the coast of Malibu, California. This event led to a spiritual awakening, and he converted to Islam. Following his conversion, he changed his name to Yusuf Islam.
Hiatus from Music
Yusuf Islam took a hiatus from his music career in the late 1970s, focusing on his newfound faith and charitable work. During this period, he withdrew from the public eye.
Return to Music
Return to Recording:
In the late 1990s, Yusuf Islam returned to recording and performing music. He released the album "An Other Cup" in 2006, marking his return to the industry.
Philanthropy and Activism
Throughout his life, Yusuf Islam has been involved in various charitable endeavors. He has supported humanitarian causes, education, and initiatives promoting peace.
Legacy
Influence and Recognition
Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam's music has had a lasting impact on the folk and singer-songwriter genres. His songs, characterized by thoughtful lyrics and melodic compositions, continue to be celebrated. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014.
Continued Music Career
Yusuf Islam has continued to release new music, including albums like "Tell 'Em I'm Gone" (2014) and "The Laughing Apple" (2017). His later works often blend his spiritual beliefs with his signature sound.
Cat Stevens/Yusuf Islam's journey in music and spirituality has been marked by transformation and resilience. His timeless songs remain beloved by generations of listeners around the world.
I am sorry, I started listening to Cat Stevens, and now I’m behind on my medium article for this morning. If you will be so kind as to excuse me for a while, I need to knock that out. I’ll be back. It’s about ten right now. I try to have the first story done every day by ten, in case anybody drops by. This site is always available. We may doze, but we never close…
Yes, I have been called the Cat Stevens of print. Except I can’t sing. And I’m a Christ-follower. And my beard’s not as nice. I guess it’s just because my chiseled features are so ruggedly handsome.
While I’m gone, maybe you could get a friend to subscribe here. Thanks!
“The Secret World of Writing Daily” could refer to the daily habits, routines, challenges, and experiences of writers who commit to writing every day. Writing daily is a practice often advocated for by authors, bloggers, and creative writers as a means to improve skills, build discipline, and overcome creative blocks. Here are some aspects that might be considered part of the secret world of writing daily:
1 Discipline and Routine
Daily writing often requires establishing a disciplined routine. Writers may find specific times of the day or dedicated spaces conducive to their creative flow.
2 Morning Pages
Some writers swear by the practice of “morning pages,” a concept popularized by Julia Cameron in her book “The Artist’s Way.” This involves writing three pages of stream-of-consciousness writing each morning.
3 Trying a Variety of Writing Forms
Daily writing doesn’t necessarily mean working on a novel every day. Writers might engage in various forms, including journaling, poetry, short stories, blog posts, or even just brainstorming idea.