“We’ve prepared something truly special for my American audience, but this is out of our hands,” the singer-songwriter said
Yusuf/Cat Stevens warned fans in the United States that his upcoming tour — scheduled to start in early October — is in “serious jeopardy” due to ongoing visa issues.
A post shared on the singer-songwriter’s Instagram noted there have been “significant delays in U.S. immigration processing.” And despite “exhaustive efforts,” neither Yusuf nor the members of his band have yet been issued the required performance visas.
“We’ve prepared something truly special for my American audience, but this is out of our hands,” Yusuf said.
The post went on to advise fans to “hold all travel plans until official confirmation is provided.” The note ended: “We are working urgently with authorities and will share news the moment we have it. Your understanding and patience are appreciated as we fight to keep the ‘Peace Train’ on its tracks.”
Yusuf announced his North American tour back in May, and as it stands, the run is still scheduled to start Oct. 2 in Philadelphia and wrap Oct. 21 in Los Angeles. The tour is technically in support of Yusuf’s new memoir, Cat on the Road to Findout, which will be published in the U.S. on Oct. 7. Dubbed, “Cat On The Road To Findout—An Evening Of Tales, Tunes, And Other Mysteries,” the shows were set to feature the singer-songwriter discussing his book and performing stripped-down renditions of his songs.
When the tour was announced, Yusuf said in a statement, “Having passed through the exhaustingly complex maze of everyday material life, ascending the dizzying heights of wealth, recognition, and artistic achievements, I think I’ve got a few things to share… Now I have written a book which explains what I’ve learned and the stories along the way. That doesn’t make me a teacher, but more of a potential specimen for those who are searching and pursuing happiness on all sides of the divide. Believe me, folks, it’s out there!”
