Cat Stevens returns to US
Yusuf Islam is back after 30 years

Yusuf Islam, also known as Cat Stevens, has returned to the US after a 30 year absence.

Islam's first live performance in the US will be broadcast on NPR radio station KCRW in Los Angeles today (December 21), and on the internet at www.kcrw.com at 11:15 am Pacific Standard Time.

Islam, who performed live at New York's Lincoln Center on December 19, was interviewed by radio host Nic Harcourt for his programme 'Morning Becomes Eclectic' between sets.

The British-born musician changed his name from Cat Stevens to Yusuf Islam in 1979 after converting to Islam. Since then, he has dedicated himself to philanthropic causes for the Muslim community. Last month he released the album, 'An Other Cup'.

In 2004 the singer was denied entry to the US after his name appeared on a government "no fly" list, he later attributed to this to a spelling error which caused confusion over his identity.

-NME