About the song
In the rich tapestry of 1970s music, few songs resonate with the timeless message of peace and unity as profoundly as “Peace Train” by Cat Stevens. Released in 1971, this evocative track stands out not only for its melodic charm but also for its powerful lyrics that echo a universal longing for harmony in a world often beset by conflict and division.
Cat Stevens, known today as Yusuf Islam, was at the height of his creative powers when he penned “Peace Train.” His folk-inspired sound and introspective songwriting had already garnered him significant acclaim, but this particular song elevated his voice to a new level of global relevance. With its uplifting melody and heartfelt message, “Peace Train” captures the essence of the era’s quest for peace and understanding, reflecting the hopes of a generation yearning for change.
The song’s composition is a masterful blend of acoustic guitar, a captivating chorus, and a rhythmic beat that invites listeners to join in a collective dream of a more peaceful world. The lyrics, with their poignant and hopeful tone, encourage us to envision a future where humanity unites in a shared journey towards tranquility and mutual respect.
What makes “Peace Train” truly enduring is its ability to transcend time and place. Despite being over five decades old, its message remains as relevant today as it was then. In an age where the call for peace is still fervently needed, Cat Stevens’ “Peace Train” continues to inspire and uplift, reminding us of the power of music to unite and heal.
As you listen to this iconic song, allow yourself to be carried away by its hopeful vision and the gentle assurance that, together, we can board the peace train and journey towards a brighter, more harmonious future.
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Lyrics
Now I’ve been happy lately
Thinking about the good things to come
And I believe it could be
Something good has begun
Oh, I’ve been smiling lately
Dreaming about the world as one
And I believe it could be
Someday it’s going to come
‘Cause out on the edge of darkness
There rides the peace train
Oh, peace train take this country
Come take me home again
Now I’ve been smiling lately
Thinkin’ about the good things to come
And I believe it could be
Something good has begun
Oh, peace train sounding louder
Glide on the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on now, peace train
Yes, peace train holy roller
Everyone jump upon the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on now, peace train
Get your bags together
Go bring your good friends too
Because it’s getting nearer
It soon will be with you
Now come and join the living
It’s not so far from you
And it’s getting nearer
Soon it will all be true
Oh, peace train sounding louder
Glide on the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on now peace train
Peace train
Now I’ve been crying lately
Thinkin’ about the world as it is
Why must we go on hating?
Why can’t we live in bliss?
‘Cause out on the edge of darkness
There rides a peace train
Oh, peace train take this country
Come take me home again
Oh, peace train sounding louder
Glide on the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on now, peace train
Yes, peace train holy roller
Everyone jump upon the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on, come on, come on
Yes, come on, peace train
Yes, it’s the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah
Come on now, peace train
Oh, peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah