About the song
Introducing “Year of the Cat” by Al Stewart, we embark on a musical journey through the intricate storytelling of one of the most distinctive voices in the folk-rock genre. Originally released on his 1976 album of the same name, “Year of the Cat” stands as a hallmark of Al Stewart’s songwriting prowess and lyrical depth.
Al Stewart, a Scottish singer-songwriter, gained prominence in the 1970s with his unique blend of folk, rock, and historical themes. “Year of the Cat” showcases Stewart’s ability to weave captivating narratives into melodic masterpieces, capturing the imagination of listeners with its rich imagery and evocative storytelling.
The song transports listeners to exotic locales, painting a vivid portrait of romance and intrigue against the backdrop of a bustling cityscape. Stewart’s smooth vocals, accompanied by lush instrumentation including saxophone and acoustic guitar, create an atmosphere of mystery and allure that is both timeless and enchanting.
“Year of the Cat” enjoyed considerable commercial success upon its release, reaching number eight on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. Its atmospheric sound and sophisticated lyrics struck a chord with audiences worldwide, earning Al Stewart critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase.
Decades since its debut, “Year of the Cat” remains a beloved classic, cherished for its poetic lyricism and musical sophistication. As we revisit this timeless track, we are reminded of the enduring legacy of Al Stewart and the enduring power of his music to transport listeners to distant lands and bygone eras.
Video
lyrics
On a morning from a Bogart movie
In a country where they turn back time
You go strolling through the crowd like Peter Lorre
Contemplating a crime
She comes out of the sun in a silk dress running
Like a watercolor in the rain
Don’t bother asking for explanations
She’ll just tell you that she came
In the year of the cat
She doesn’t give you time for questions
As she locks up your arm in hers
And you follow ’till your sense of which direction
Completely disappears
By the blue tiled walls near the market stalls
There’s a hidden door she leads you to
These days, she says, I feel my life
Just like a river running through
The year of the cat
While she looks at you so cooly
And her eyes shine like the moon in the sea
She comes in incense and patchouli
So you take her, to find what’s waiting inside
The year of the cat
Well morning comes and you’re still with her
And the bus and the tourists are gone
And you’ve thrown away your choice you’ve lost your ticket
So you have to stay on
But the drum-beat strains of the night remain
In the rhythm of the newborn day
You know sometime you’re bound to leave her
But for now you’re going to stay
In the year of the cat
Year of the cat