About the song
Cat Stevens: A Timeless Morning
Cat Stevens’ “Morning Has Broken” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless masterpiece that has resonated with listeners across generations. Released in 1971 as part of his album Tea for the Tillerman, this gentle ballad has become one of the most beloved folk songs of the 20th century.
The song’s lyrics, penned by the Scottish poet Eleanor Farjeon, paint a vivid picture of nature awakening. Stevens’ soulful vocals and the simple yet evocative melody perfectly complement Farjeon’s words, creating a serene and uplifting atmosphere. The imagery of the “blackbird singing in the dead of night” and the “purple-headed mountain” has endeared the song to countless listeners who have found solace and inspiration in its message of hope and renewal.
Morning Has Broken has been covered by numerous artists over the years, each bringing their unique interpretation to the song. However, Stevens’ original version remains a benchmark for its authenticity and emotional depth. The track’s popularity was further solidified when it was featured in the 1979 film Breaker Morant, where it served as a poignant backdrop to the film’s powerful themes of innocence, loss, and the human spirit.
One of the reasons for the song’s enduring appeal is its universal themes. The lyrics speak to the human experience of joy, sorrow, and the passage of time. The song’s message of hope and renewal is particularly resonant in times of uncertainty and change. Moreover, the simple yet profound lyrics have made it a popular choice for religious services, weddings, and other special occasions.
Musically, Morning Has Broken is a prime example of the folk revival that swept through the music industry in the 1960s and 1970s. The song’s acoustic guitar accompaniment and gentle percussion create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while Stevens’ vocals convey a sense of intimacy and vulnerability. The track’s arrangement is both understated and effective, allowing the lyrics and melody to take center stage.
In conclusion, Cat Stevens’ “Morning Has Broken” is a timeless classic that continues to inspire and uplift listeners around the world. Its beautiful lyrics, soulful melody, and universal themes have ensured its place in the music canon. Whether you are a longtime fan of Cat Stevens or new to his music, Morning Has Broken is a song that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Video
Lyrics
Morning has broken like the first morning
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird
Praise for the singing, praise for the morning
Praise for them springing fresh from the world
Sweet the rains new fall, sunlit from Heaven
Like the first dewfall on the first grass
Praise for the sweetness of the wet garden
Sprung in completeness where His feet pass
Mine is the sunlight, mine is the morning
Born of the one light, Eden saw play
Praise with elation, praise every morning
God’s recreation of the new day
Morning has broken like the first morning
Blackbird has spoken like the first bird
Praise for the singing, praise for the morning
Praise for them springing fresh from the world