He opened his show with “Where Do the Children Play?” as a skyline backdrop graced the stage. He then lured his fans into his “attic,” which was his safe haven above the restaurant that his mom and dad owned in London. His set was quite elaborate with his own personal memorabilia, that made it even more authentic. He took his fans on a musical journey, where he performed two sets, one of his classics, and one of his newer material. He continued with “If You Want to Sing Out, Sing Out” and a cover of “Somewhere.”
His version of “The First Cut Is the Deepest” ought to be enjoyed for its beauty and simplicity, and the same was true for “I Love My Dog,” his breakthrough single from over 50 years prior. He closed the first part of his show with “Miles From Nowhere” and “On the Road to Find Out.”
The second set featured more of his most popular hits, as he opened with the piano-driven and bittersweet tune “Sad Lisa,” and it was followed by “Don’t Be Shy,” where he accompanied himself on acoustic guitar. One of the fan-favorite vocals was “Father and Son,” where he got the crowd on the feet, and he paid tribute to The Impressions, with a soulful cover of “People Get Ready.”
He closed his memorable set with his signature hit “Peace Train,” where everybody was singing along, as it moved many fans to tears, and it earned him a lengthy standing ovation.
The Verdict
Overall, Yusuf/Cat Stevens was superb at the Beacon Theatre in New York. It made one feel as if he were singing in their living rooms, where his crisp and captivating voice did all the talking. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer easily put on one of the best live concerts of 2016. This show garnered an A rating. Congratulations are in order for a job well done.
