Glastonbury 2023 was packed with rock titans like Arctic Monkeys, Guns N’ Roses, and Blondie, but it was folk-rock icon Cat Stevens—now known as Yusuf Islam—who stole the show in a way nobody saw coming. Armed with just his acoustic guitar and an unforgettable voice, Stevens transformed the Pyramid Stage into a time machine, delivering a spellbinding performance of “Wild World” that lit up the crowd like wildfire.
More than five decades after its release, “Wild World” proved it’s truly timeless. Thousands of fans—young and old alike—sang every word in perfect harmony, creating a moment of pure, shared magic. The most astonishing part? Stevens’ voice sounded as vibrant and fresh as it did back in 1970, untouched by the years but full of the same raw emotion.
Reflecting on the unforgettable night, Stevens called the experience “something of a dream,” marveling at the overwhelming love and energy from the British crowd. “It was beyond anything I’d ever felt here before,” he said.
His 21-song set was a masterclass in folk-rock classics, featuring heartfelt renditions of “The First Cut Is the Deepest,” “Moonshadow,” and “Morning Has Broken.” He also paid a moving tribute to George Harrison with “Here Comes the Sun,” adding an extra layer of soul to the evening.
Though Stevens once stepped away from the spotlight, his Glastonbury comeback proved that his music is far from fading—it continues to connect generations, reminding us all why he remains one of folk-rock’s most beloved voices. The night wasn’t just a concert; it was a powerful celebration of timeless music and the enduring spirit of an artist who refuses to be forgotten.
