Peace Train

Been in a musical mood these last few days and will feature some songs. But if you prefer, read the lyrics and the message behind the songs. In addition, this is also in response to some queries from my students about music - the answer lies within.

I first present you a song entitled: "Peace Train" by Yusuf Islam (Cat Stevens). Yusuf Islam performed live at the Nobel Peace Prize 2006 Award.

That day was a special event. In my measure two of the greatest Muslims of the world in the same place - both of whom have done more for more people that we can imagine - one empowering the poorest of the poor to break their chains of despondency, the other illuminating the hearts of the lost and wandering to find their way to everlasting Love and Happiness.

"I feel right about making music and singing about life in this fragile world again," Yusuf says of his return to the pop music world. 'It is important for me to be able to help bridge the cultural gaps others are sometimes frightened to cross.'

"Peace Train is a song I wrote, the message of which continues to breeze thunderously through the hearts of millions of human beings and there is a powerful need for people to feel that gust of hope rise up again," he said.

I only hope Muslims can work towards making positive changes for ourselves, our community and the world-at-large rather than be critical of other people's works, such as these men. Existing in such a fragile world, this is such an apt song of positivity.

[His life performance at the Nobel Peace Prize at YouTube has been blocked. So, please enjoy this album version.]

Peace Train - Yusuf Islam

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,
some day it's going to come

Cause out on the edge of darkness,
there rides a peace train
Oh peace train take this country,
come take me home again

Now I've been smiling lately,
thinking 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
Come on now peace train
Yes, peace train holy roller

Everyone jump upon the peace train
Come on now peace train
Get your bags together,
go bring your good friends too

Cause 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
Now I've been crying lately,
thinking 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