Cat Stevens.... Great Artist or Wacko?

hi muljo, 1st, my response has *every* place in this thread - it's *EXACTLY* what the thread topic is about! 2nd, i have nothing against iran; i have persian friends; i had muslim roomates prior to getting married. let me repeat this, so there is *NO* understanding: *ANYONE* who believes that someone should be killed for what they write has *NO* integrity, imho. i don't care whether they are persian, muslim, or *WHATEVER*!!! i much prefer what the frenchman voltaire said: "i may not agree w/what you say, but i will defend to the death your right to say it." peace, doug

I agree with Sedond's right to post his response! The thread entitled Artist or Wacko allows for both sides of the equation to be discussed. I also believe that the artist left us with some wonderful music (although I am not a huge fan) but do believe that it is somewhat contradicted by his open support of the Shaw of Iran's call for Salmon's death. I guess the "Peace Train" is now parked at the station for good....

Sorry for the error

Wow, politics creeping into Audiogon. For what it's worth, freedom of expression remains a fundamental right, if you don't agree with the topic, then either challenge the author or ignore it. Putting a price on someone's head for a literary work is absurd. That transgresses belief, and becomes a loosely knit group of zealots. Oh, anyone know what Cat did with all his cash when he went into seclusion? My guess is, it went to some charity or religious organization.

Hey, it's simple: buy only used versions of his music if you don't want any of your $ going to support extremist/anti-free-expression viewpoints. I love his early music but strongly disagree with his current politics and buying or not buying his music (sending him royalties) is a way to put my $ where my mouth is.