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Peace Train Cat Stevens
On The Acoustic

Welcome to a splendid journey into the timeless classic, Peace Train Cat Stevens style. This is a song that has garnered not just commercial success, but also resonated deeply with people from all walks of life, becoming a beacon of hope, peace and unity.

Below you'll find a this demo cover, free chord sheet, rhythm tips and more. If you'd like to purchase full lesson tutorials they are available for a small fee.

Song Meaning

Peace Train was only the second #1 song in the US by Cat Stevens and hails from his Teaser And The Firecat 1971 album. The song was an instant hit, releasing on April 26, 1971.

This song was also a top 10 in several countries. The Cat Stevens Peace Train lyrics are not available at this time.

The song's creator, Cat Stevens, was born as Steven Demetre Georgiou in London in July 1948. The singer-songwriter took the stage name Cat Stevens when he began his music career, and would later become known as Yusuf Islam after converting to Islam. He's rightfully celebrated for his heartfelt lyrics, unique voice and outstanding ability to experiment with music while remaining true to his folk roots.

This iconic tune was written solely by Stevens himself, reflecting his wish for global unity and peace—a wish that perhaps rings truer today than ever before. The song infused hope into hearts worldwide, quickly climbing the ladder of the Billboard Hot 100, securing the 7th spot, making it one of Stevens' most successful songs.

Artists Covering Peace Train

Because of "Peace Train's" universal appeal and timeless message, it has been covered by a number of artists over the years. Notably, 10,000 Maniacs included a version of "Peace Train" on their 1987 album "In My Tribe," leading to a resurgence of popularity for the song. Dolly Parton, too, recorded a cover for her 1996 album "Treasures."

Trivia About Peace Train

An interesting trivia about Cat Stevens's "Peace Train" is the spontaneous origin of its memorable 'whistle' sound. Stevens has recounted that during the recording process, producer Paul Samwell-Smith improvised the whistle while experimenting with instruments to get the perfect sound. Its addition became one of the song's most recognizable features.

Stevens once said that he saw Mankind as passengers aboard the peace train, with the potential for everyone to create happiness and peace if they chose to. So powerful is the song's message that it was used in the peace movement during the Vietnam War era, and is still considered a hymn for peace in many circles today.

Peace Train Cat Stevens
Chords, Lyrics, Rhythm Tips, Tutorials

Chords & Lyrics

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Peace Train Chords

To all you guitar enthusiasts out there, learning this song can be quite rewarding. While the chords are not overly complicated, the magic lies in the emotion you put into it. Stevens has been known for his natural yet powerful playing style, making "Peace Train" a favorite among folk musicians.

For those of you taking this timeless song to your next gig or family gathering, infuse it with your unique style. Remember, "Peace Train," with its warm and optimistic vibes, is essentially a narrative — one that speaks directly to the hearts of listeners, spreading joy and camaraderie.

As a folk guitar musician or enthusiast looking to master this song, it’s worth understanding that Stevens often used open tunings for his compositions. His renditions of "Peace Train" frequently employ the DADGAD tuning, a type of alternate tuning common in folk and blues music.This version I play in the C chord standard tuning format.

Drop D Tuning: No
Capo: No
Rhythm: down up down up down up and repeat
Picking: a few riffs
Chords: F, G, C, Am, E

Peace Train Cat Stevens Lyrics

Just as the sentiments of nostalgia, joy, and appreciation are evoked when listening to "Peace Train," these feelings are magnified when you learn to play this gem on your guitar. The positive vibes and sense of unity that the song promotes can bring about a palpable sense of relaxation and warmth in both you and your audience.

Playing "Peace Train" doesn't just involve strumming the strings of your guitar, nor does it merely involve hitting the right notes. It means embodying the timeless message of love and peace that Stevens zealously believed in, and conveying it through your performance.

Now I've been happy lately - Thinking about the good things to come
And I believe it could be - Something good has begun
Oh, I've been smiling lately - Dreaming about the world as one
And I believe it could be - Someday it's going to come

'Cause out on the edge of darkness - There rides the peace train
Oh, peace train take this country - Come take me home again Now I've been smiling lately - Thinkin' about the good things to come
And I believe it could be - Something good has begun

Oh, peace train sounding louder - Glide on the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah - Come on now, peace train
Yes, peace train holy roller - Everyone jump upon the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah - Come on now, peace train

Get your bags together - Go bring your good friends too
Because it's getting nearer - It soon will be with you
Now come and join the living - It's not so far from you
And it's getting nearer - Soon it will all be true

Oh, peace train sounding louder - Glide on the peace train
Ooh-ah, ee-ah, ooh-ah - Come on now peace train - Peace train

Now I've been crying lately - Thinkin' about the world as it is
Why must we go on hating? - Why can't we live in bliss?' Cause out on the edge of darkness - There rides a peace train
Oh, peace train take this country - Come take me home again

Performances

Remember, "Peace Train" is an experience, not just a tune to play. As you delve into its musical and lyrical depths, may you find the inspiration to strum each chord with conviction, and may the timeless message of peace be the anthem of your heart. Hop aboard the "Peace Train," and spread the spirit of unity and harmony, one strum at a time.

More Cat Stevens Songs

Peace Train Cat Stevens Summary

For those of you looking to become the "Peace Train" ambassadors at family gatherings or pubs, bear in mind the interesting history of the song. Sharing these snippets with your audience could make your performance all the more engaging and meaningful.

As an avid fan of "Peace Train" by Cat Stevens, there is a chance you may have noticed the unabashed optimism in the song. While Cat Stevens has admitted to going through periods of darkness, he has also shared that "Peace Train" was born out of a moment of unbridled hope and warmth, making the song truly special.

Despite his conversion to Islam and subsequent retirement from mainstream music in the late 70s, Stevens returned to the music scene in the 2000s. He performed "Peace Train" at the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize Concert, reaffirming its timeless message.