“Missing from the public narrative has been the intimate story of his deeply emotive transformation – until now. ‘Cat on the Road to Findout’ finally reveals the curious complexity and intellectual reasoning behind his navigation through life – a voyage which has now culminated in his return to music and art, to share his lessons of life with those seekers, dreamers, and believers, who still love and admire him. He remains true to the optimistic message of his melodic peace train.”

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Yusuf/Cat Stevens commented: “I’ve been on an amazing journey, which began in the narrow streets of London, and led me through the most iconic cities, to perform upon the great stage of Western culture, ascending the dizzying heights of wealth, recognition and artistic pinnacles; freely exploring vast ranges of religions and philosophies, wandering through churches, temples, all the way to the Holy abode in Jerusalem — ignoring myths and warnings — and crossing the foreboded, desert heartlands, to arrive at the House of One God in Abrahamic Arabia. What finally elevated my perspective was a luminous Book that perfectly alchemized my thoughts, beliefs, with human nature. It taught me Oneness, and my place and purpose within the universe.”

The singer which had a terrifying near-death experience, almost drowning back in 1975, will be talking about how the experience led him on a spiritual path which subsequently made him convert to Islam and change his name to Yusuf Islam. Shortly after, he quit music to dedicate his life to God, his family and humanitarian work, earning him a World Award for “humanitarian relief work helping children and victims of war” and the Man of Peace Award, voted for by The Nobel Peace Laureates.

‘Cat On The Road To Findout’ is available to pre-order and to join the pre-sale for his upcoming book tour, visit catstevens.com.

Tributes have poured in from across the music and broadcasting worlds, with his wife Tiggy posting a poignant message on Twitter: “What does a new widow do on NYE? She listens to BBC Radio 2, opens a bottle and toasts her amazing husband. Courageous, wise, strong, creative and never dull. They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing. Above all – the most devoted, loving husband. Please raise a glass to Johnnie Walker.”

What does a new widow do on NYE? She listens to @BBCRadio2, opens a bottle and toasts her amazing husband. Courageous, wise, strong, creative and never dull. They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing. Above all – the most devoted loving husband. Pls raise a to Johnnie Walker pic.twitter.com/B0S30YiDal

— Tiggy Walker (@TiggyWalker) December 31, 2024

Walker’s career began in the golden age of pirate radio. Starting with Swinging England, he became a household name on Radio Caroline. Defying the UK government’s Marine Broadcasting Offences Act in 1967, which outlawed pirate stations, Walker continued broadcasting from international waters before joining the BBC in 1969. At Radio 1, his eclectic taste and refusal to stick to playlists earned him a devoted following, though it also led to disputes with the station’s management. These disagreements prompted a move to America in 1976, where he spent five years broadcasting in California and Maryland.  

Returning to the UK in the early 1980s, Walker worked for various local radio stations before making a triumphant return to the BBC in 1987. His tenure at Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s programme, which he took over in 2008, solidified his legacy. Over 15 years, Walker transformed the show into a celebration of the era’s music and culture, winning over new generations of listeners. He introduced the ‘Johnnie’s Jukebox’ feature, where Johnnie and listeners would select a single from the 70s to be stored in the imaginary jukebox.

His final broadcast on 27 October 2024 was an emotional farewell. “[It’s] going to be very strange not to be on the wireless anymore. Also, by the same token, life will be slightly less of a strain really, trying to find the breath in order to do the programmes. Thank you for being with me all these years and take good care of yourself and those you love. May we walk into the future with our heads held high and happiness in our hearts. God bless you.”

Bob Harris announcing the death of Johnnie Walker on BBC Radio 2’s Sounds of the 70s this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/5aXBADYKhz — Gareth Joy (@lookoutwales2) December 31, 2024

The announcement of Walker’s passing was made by his successor, Bob Harris, who paid a heartfelt tribute to his friend of over 50 years. “Johnnie was one of the greats, a voice that defined an era and a man who lived and breathed music,” Harris said. Social media has been awash with tributes from fans, coworkers and musicians, with one listener commenting, “He had one of the best voices on radio, and excellent taste in music too. Sleep well, Johnnie, you will be missed.”

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Walker’s influence extended beyond his radio shows. In a 2013 interview with Tony Benn, he reflected on the transformative role of pirate radio: “This was one of the greatest musical explosions in history, and the BBC decided to play only an hour on Saturday morning. But teenagers were desperate to hear it, and, three and a half miles off the Essex coast, pirate radios were doing that. And people loved them.” Walker’s defiance of the establishment and passion for sharing music left an indelible mark on British culture.

So sorry to hear the news about the great Johnnie Walker. Not only was he a wonderful broadcaster but also a man of great personal strength and kindness.

— Ken Bruce (@RealKenBruce) December 31, 2024

Diagnosed with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis, Walker spent his final months at home with Tiggy, his wife and carer, who had supported him tirelessly. Known for his warmth, Walker was a pioneer whose voice will echo through the history of British broadcasting.

As Tiggy poignantly wrote, “They didn’t call him the Pirate for nothing.” Johnnie Walker’s legacy as a champion of music and a beloved broadcaster will endure. Raise a glass to the man who brought the spirit of the airwaves to life.