In a brand name brand-new tune launched today entitled “King of a Land,” Yusuf’s lyrics talk to a clear aggravation with the state of the postmodern world: “If I was a king of a land, I’d free every woman and man…If I ran the schools of this world…If I had a mountain of gold.”
Ahead of the crowning of King Charles III, Yusuf reveals his hope that the brand-new Monarch will utilize his function to make a positive effect on the future of the nation and the world. “While politicians bicker and scrum in the basement quarters, somebody upstairs should be watching where those political party goers are taking us. Frankly, democracy needs a bit of dusting,” Yusuf laments.
“One of the opportunities of being an artist is to express what appears unthinkable, and after that hang it up there for individuals to consider; we can state things that others can’t. Sure, I understand complete well music can’t always resolve the world’s issues, however it can help to direct the story. There are a couple of goals in my tune, ‘King of a Land,’ that I hope resonate with His Majesty.”
Yusuf / Cat Stevens has shared ‘A Manifesto for a Good King,’ a message to King Charles III in which he lists 10 essentials that he believes all leaders should consider. Yusuf will also be writing to the future King directly, in his own hand, to share his message.
“The major message of the song – and this applies to all those in positions of leadership – is, don’t forget that there’s One above you, and take care to watch out for those who are listed below you.”
Manifesto for a Good King
1. Even if you are a King, you are still a servant of God.
2. Remove hatred through education and spread peace.
3. Feed the starving.
4. We are all human beings that make errors, so be flexible.
5. Help the ill and homeless.
6. Beware of negative individuals in your circle.
7. Everyone has a part to play, teach them to collaborate.
8. Be simply and do not reveal favouritism.
9. Listen to positive criticism.
10. Be a guardian to all faiths, and the valuable Earth all of us share.
The brand-new tune, likewise the title of Yusuf / Cat Stevens’ upcoming brand-new album, retells the story discovered in the lovely illustration adorning the album’s cover – produced by NY Times #1 very popular illustrator, Peter H. Reynolds, in partnership with Yusuf. The tune is commemorated in a brand name brand-new video, likewise launched today, where Yusuf’s lyrics and Reynolds’ illustrations are both brought to life. “King of a Land” is the story of a little boy who pictures what he would do if he were king of a land called “Woodbee.” Childlike faith and dreams are revived into touching range as Yusuf takes us on a brand-new journey. His voice, words and sensational tunes lead the listener to evictions of a much better, positive world than the one we currently live in.
Peter H. Reynolds said: “Yusuf / Cat Stevens has actually produced a vibrant world of the possible. How terrific to think of if kids ruled the world, how tranquil and simply it would be. The lyrics right away conjured a little boy with a paper crown. His kingdom: a little train set with a mini town. His objective: to make sure that every resident of this little kingdom was complimentary, informed, fed and able to commemorate the possible… of all that must be, might be, would be. The ‘Land of Woodbee’ invites everybody to get on the ‘Peace Train’ and progress – together – to a much better world.”
Listen to ‘King of a Land’ Here / Watch the main video Here
“King of a Land” shows up in the middle of a wave of celebratory activity, carefully following the statement of Yusuf / Cat Stevens’ Glastonbury Festival launching. On Sunday June 25, Yusuf will carry out the sought after Sunday tea-time legends slot at the Pyramid Stage. The efficiency is simply one month ahead of Yusuf’s turning point 75th birthday, with the release of his awaited seventeenth studio album quickly after.
Yusuf revealed the album’s lead single “Take The World Apart” last month. The “cheerful” (Associated Press) track was included in Rolling Stone’s “Songs You Need To Know” roundup and made Yusuf appreciation from The Times, NME, and MOJO Magazine.
King of a Land is set for release through BMG / Dark Horse Records on 16th June 2023. The album is available for pre-order on green vinyl in a gatefold format with a 36 page brochure including illustrations by Peter Reynolds. The CD likewise includes a pamphlet shown by Peter Reynolds – Pre-order here. An special edition of the album, continued white vinyl, is available from the authorities Yusuf / Cat Stevens online store in addition to album product – go to the main store here.
King of a Land Album Tracklisting
1. Train on a Hill
2. King of a Land
3. Pagan Run
4. He is True
5. All Nights, All Days
6. Another Night in the Rain
7. Things.
8. Son of Mary
9. Highness
10. The Boy Who Knew How to Climb Walls
11. How Good it Feels
12. Take The World Apart
