The addition of the line, ‘though you travel many roads, there’s but one way and that’s the one you chose’ brings his wealth of life experience into sharp and valuable focus. This is, after all, a man who made precisely that choice.
By the time the concert was over and we were looking at his Roadsinger van still parked outside, I had all but forgotten that I had been fortunate enough to see U2 in a, for them at least, smallish venue. With the greatest respect and thanks to them, this was very much Yusuf’s night. After all, Bono said so himself during his affectionate introduction.
If I never see another concert again then, so be it. It was simply an honour to see this one. Thank you to Island Records for putting on such a show. Here's to another fifty years. Thank you also to the support bands for some excellent music. Thanks too to U2 for adding their class to the whole event. Most of all thank you to the Roadsinger himself, Yusuf, for coming back and warming us through the night.
Please visit Yusuf here at his official website. You can also catch up on his life through his Mountain Of Light site. Also please visit the Small Kindness charity website for details of a new 'song for peace' available for charity download. Yusuf along with Klaus Voormann perform George Harrison's "The Day The World Gets Round" - proceeds to The Small Kindness charity.
Article comments
1 - beryl
I thought your article was excellent and I experienced exactly the same feelings not noticing the Edge etc due to Bono 's presence. The Baaba Maal set was incredible but then Yusuf appeared. I was one of the 2 ladies crying and I have never been to a concert like it. We stood for 5 hours and I could have done it all again . It was life affirming and totally special and I have terrible withdrawal symptoms this week now that the high has worn off. Yusuf seems the most gentle thoughtful loving person and it is a privilege to have been a part of the evening.
2 - Jeff
Thank you so much Beryl !
You are so right when you say, 'It was life affirming and totally special and I have terrible withdrawal symptoms this week now that the high has worn off. '...........
I know exactly what you mean - I have been going to concerts all my life - but there was something magical going on that night. It was joyful, emotional, and inspirational. If only I could have expressed it better in the article. We were indeed privileged to experience it. If you are in the UK he is live on Radio 2 tomorrow night Weds 3rd June - not sure of the time. Thank you for taking the time to read this and most of all for posting such a lovely feedback. Jeff Perkins - Eurorock, Classic Eurorock.
3 - Jeff
Yusuf Live on Radio 2 - slight correction - it's being recorded Weds 3rd June but is being transmitted on Saturday 6th June - not sure of the time. Don't miss it.