Following Yusuf's appearance at the recent tribute night to 'Harold And Maude' director Hal Ashby, the host of the evening, Cameron Crowe, has written some words about Yusuf and the evening's events.
He writes:
"When the lights dimmed shortly after 7:30, there was a palpable buzz in the crowd. Many had heard that Yusuf would be here as part of the Academy of Arts and Sciences' Tribute to Hal Ashby. Suddenly, in the darkness, there was the sound of Hal Ashby talking about his collaboration with Cat Stevens on his great film "Harold and Maude." After about thirty seconds of Hal speaking glowingly of Cat, came the voice of an Announcer: "That was Hal talking about Cat... who became Yusuf."
A lone spotlight lit up the stage microphone, and Yusuf appeared from behind the curtain. He was given a standing ovation from the thrilled crowd. Yusuf thenopened with "Don't Be Shy," followed by "Miles From Nowhere." After a few words explaining that he hadn't played the next song in many years, Yusuf began playing "Trouble." There was an audible gasp from the crowd. Tears were heard all around me. The song, such an indelible part of one of the greatest collaborations between artist and film, is lodged in the heart of Yusuf and "Harold and Maude" fans everywhere. His version on this night was spare, emotional and soul-stirring in his power. Another standing ovation, and the evening had begun on this magical note.
After some remarks from Academy President Sid Ganis, co-host and Variety publisher Peter Bart, and yours truly, the world's most nervous (but proud) speaker... a panel of friends and admirers were then introduced. All had been enthusiastic participants from the first invitation to be a part of the evening... Judd Apatow, Diablo Cody, Seth Rogen, Jon Voight, Haskell Wexler and Yusuf himself. For the next thirty-five minutes, Yusuf exchanged anecdotes with the panel and shared his deep appreciation for the work of Hal Ashby and the film we'd all come to see, "Harold and Maude."
The film screened to a wildly enthusiastic reception. For many, it was the first time seeing the film on a big screen. The effect was beyond powerful, and the fact that we were sharing it with Yusuf made the experience even more memorable. Afterwards, there was a surprise appearance by the film's reclusive star, Bud Cort, who thanked the crowd and gave a fifteen minute monologue about his journey in getting the part, and living with the film's lasting impact. He also hailed Yusuf as the film's "fourth main character" after Harold, Maude (Ruth Gordon) and Harold's comicly domineering mother (Vivian Pickles).
Afterwards Cort and Yusuf posed for a photo that says everything - memories were shared,
friendships renewed, and with Yusuf's graceful and generous appearance, all left having witnessed and felt the rarest of events. "Harold and Maude" had come to life again, on the wings of passion and true art... and the songs of Yusuf. Thank you to Yusuf, David Spero, Barry Krost, Brian Loucks and to Yoriyos for your contributions to making it a night of nights."
Below are some pictures from the night, courtesy of AMPAS:
