About the song
Yusuf, formerly known as Cat Stevens, is renowned for his heartfelt and introspective music that has touched the lives of many. His live performance of “How Can I Tell You” in 1971 is a poignant example of his profound ability to convey deep emotions through song. This performance captures Yusuf at a significant moment in his career, delivering a timeless ballad that continues to resonate with audiences today.
Cat Stevens, who changed his name to Yusuf Islam after converting to Islam in 1977, began his musical career in the 1960s. By 1971, he had already established himself as a prominent singer-songwriter with a series of successful albums and hit singles. His unique blend of folk, pop, and rock, combined with his soulful voice and thoughtful lyrics, garnered him widespread acclaim.
“How Can I Tell You” is a tender love song that first appeared on his 1971 album “Teaser and the Firecat.” The album itself was a commercial success, featuring other notable tracks such as “Moonshadow” and “Peace Train.” “Teaser and the Firecat” reached the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom, solidifying Cat Stevens’ place in the music world.
The live performance of “How Can I Tell You” in 1971 showcases Yusuf’s raw and emotive vocal delivery. The simplicity of the song’s arrangement, with its gentle acoustic guitar and straightforward melody, allows the lyrics to take center stage. The song expresses a deep yearning and vulnerability, as Yusuf sings about the difficulty of articulating his feelings to a loved one. His genuine emotion is palpable, making the performance deeply moving.
In this live rendition, Yusuf’s connection with his audience is evident. His ability to communicate complex emotions in a relatable and sincere manner has always been one of his greatest strengths as a performer. The intimate setting of the live performance further enhances the song’s impact, drawing listeners into the personal and introspective world that Yusuf creates with his music.
“How Can I Tell You” has endured over the decades, continuing to be a favorite among fans of Yusuf’s music. Its timeless theme of unspoken love and the struggle to express one’s deepest emotions is something that resonates with listeners of all ages. The song remains a testament to Yusuf’s enduring talent and his ability to touch the hearts of his audience.
For older, educated listeners, this live performance of “How Can I Tell You” offers a nostalgic reminder of the profound impact that Cat Stevens had on the music scene in the 1970s. It also serves as a beautiful example of the enduring power of music to convey the most intimate and universal human experiences. This performance, like much of Yusuf’s work, stands the test of time, continuing to inspire and move listeners around the world.
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Lyrics
How can I tell you
That I love you
I love you
But I can’t think of right words to say
I long to tell you
That I’m always thinking of you
I’m always thinking of you
But my words just blow away
Just blow away
It always ends up to one thing, honey
And I can’t think of right words to say
Wherever I am girl
I’m always walking with you
I’m always walking with you
But I look and you’re not there
Whoever I’m with
I’m always, always talking to you
I’m always talking to you
And I’m sad that you can’t hear
Sad that you can’t hear
It always ends up to one thing, honey
When I look and you’re not there
I need to know you
Need to feel my arms around you
Feel my arms around you
Like a sea around a shore
Each night and day I pray
In hope that I might find you
In hope that I might find you
Because heart’s can do no more
Can do no more
It always ends up to one thing, honey
Still I kneel upon the floor
How can I tell you
That I love you
I love you
But I can’t think of right words to say
I long to tell you
That I’m always thinking of you
I’m always thinking of you
It always ends up to one thing, honey
And I can’t think of right words to say