About the Song
Cat Stevens’ “Morning Has Broken” is one of those songs that seems to have existed forever. Released in 1971 on his iconic album “Teaser and the Firecat,” it feels both timeless and deeply nostalgic, like a warm memory you can always return to. Yet, for many, the song predates Stevens himself, with roots stretching back to a century earlier. This enduring quality, this sense of having always been, is perhaps what makes it so profoundly moving.
The melody is actually a traditional Gaelic hymn tune, composed in 1872. Paired with lyrics by Eleanor Farjeon, a prolific children’s author, it became a popular Christian hymn. Stevens, however, reintroduced it to the world with his distinctive folk-rock style, imbuing it with a gentle, almost mystical aura. His arrangement, featuring the delicate piano work of Rick Wakeman, transforms the hymn into a contemplative ballad, perfect for those quiet moments of reflection.
What strikes me most about “Morning Has Broken” is its simplicity. The lyrics are straightforward, almost childlike in their wonder at the natural world. Stevens sings of “sweet the rain’s new fall, sunlit from heaven,” of “the morning that has broken,” and of “this hour that God has given.” There’s no complex theological discourse here, just a pure, heartfelt appreciation for the beauty of creation.
And it’s this sincerity that resonates so deeply with listeners. Stevens’ voice, soft and earnest, invites us to share in his awe. He’s not preaching or instructing; he’s simply observing and expressing gratitude. In a world that often feels chaotic and overwhelming, “Morning Has Broken” offers a moment of peace, a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple gifts of life.
The song’s enduring appeal also lies in its universality. While rooted in Christian tradition, its message transcends any specific religious doctrine. It speaks to a universal human experience – the sense of wonder at the dawn of a new day, the gratitude for the natural world, the recognition of a higher power or force that connects us all.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Cat Stevens or discovering “Morning Has Broken” for the first time, it’s a song that invites repeated listening. It’s a gentle reminder to find joy in the everyday, to appreciate the beauty that surrounds us, and to embrace the gift of each new morning. In our turbulent times, it’s a soothing balm for the soul, a quiet sanctuary where we can reconnect with our sense of wonder and find solace in the simple truth of existence.