Cat Stevens: The First Cut Is the Deepest

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The first recording of this song by Cat Stevens was released by P P Arnold in May 1967, reaching 18 in the British chart.

Much better is the singer’s own version, which originally appeared on his album New Masters in December 1967. It features ace guitarist Big Jim Sullivan.

I also like Rod Stewart’s version (except for the ghastly harp at the start), which reached No 1 in Britain in 1977, and 21 in America.

Here is a live performance from 2004 without the harp.

Stewart’s single was a double A-side with the great I Don’t Wanna Talk About It. Here is another live performance.

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