It’s always been the same, same old story

"Father and Son" is a popular song written and originally performed by English musician, singer-songwriter, educator, philanthropist and prominent convert to Islam, Cat Stevens (now known as Yusuf Islam) on his 1970 album Tea for the Tillerman.

The soft, understated song with a lilting dynamicism, frames an exchange between a father not understanding a son's desire to break away and shape a new life, and the son who cannot really explain himself but knows what he must do. To aptly echo this, Stevens sings in a deeper register for the ‘father’ parts, whilst using a higher, more emotive one for the ‘son’ parts.

Although not initially released as a single, "Father and Son" received substantial airplay on progressive rock and album-oriented rock radio formats, and played a key role in establishing Stevens as a new voice worthy of attention.

In 2003, Tea for the Tillerman was ranked number 206 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time, and in 2007, it was also included in the list of "The Definitive 200 Albums of All Time", released by The National Association of Recording Merchandisers and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Look at us, we are old. But we are happy. See you backstage at Tuck Shop this Wednesday from 9.00 pm. The Quiet Set with Jon is on Thursday from 9.00 pm.