“Morning Has Broken” by Cat Stevens

Cat Stevens’ “Morning Has Broken” is a praise song to the Most High. What it sets about to do in particular is exalt Him by recognizing the beauty in nature. Thus incidences like “the rain’s new fall”, “first dew fall on the first grass” and “God’s recreation” in general are recognized. More specifically the advent of a new morning, as well as certain occurrences which are part and parcel of it, are being credited as representations of His majesty.

And outside of ‘praising the morning’, the singer is also giving a shoutout to others, like himself, who are invigorated by the “word” of God.

Facts about “Morning Has Broken”

This song was written by Eleanor Farjeon, a prominent author who was actually born in the 19^th century (1881-1965). As such “Morning Has Broken” is actually quite old, having first been published in 1931. In fact as the story goes, Cat Stevens discovered this piece in a hymn book.

Cat’s cover came out on 1 October 1971 as part of his album, “Teaser and the Firecat”. And the following year, Island Records also released it as the third single from that undertaking.

Cat Stevens’ version was produced by his regular collaborator, Paul Samwell-Smith.

A musician by the name of Rick Wakeman played the piano, as well as reportedly worked on the song’s composition. In fact in the year 2000 he released his own instrumental version of “Morning Has Broken” (as well naming one of his entire albums after it). And apparently one of the reasons he did so is that he was under the impression that Cat never properly credited from for his contributions to the original. However, Cat peacefully resolved that matter with him shortly thereafter. 

Cat’s “Morning Has Broken” charted in nine countries, including peaking at number nine on the UK Singles Chart.