The song’s title and atmosphere were inspired by , as 1975 (when it was written) was the Year of the Cat .
The of Al Stewart's "Year of the Cat," released in July 1976 , is a condensed version of the sprawling 6:40 album masterpiece. While the full version is famous for its intricate four-minute instrumental suite, the single was edited to fit radio formats of the time, often clocking in between 3:30 and 4:42 depending on the territory. Production & Sound Al Stewart - Year Of The Cat (single mix) (1976)
: Parsons was instrumental in adding the song’s signature jazz influence. He famously suggested adding the saxophone solo, a move Stewart initially resisted because "there are no saxophones in folk rock". The song’s title and atmosphere were inspired by
: The solo, played by Phil Kenzie , was reportedly recorded in just one or two takes. Kenzie was reportedly so eager to get back to a movie he was watching at home that he finished the session as a "favor" to Parsons and left immediately. Production & Sound : Parsons was instrumental in
: The song’s haunting piano riff was written by Peter Wood , who played it constantly during soundchecks until Stewart finally asked to add lyrics to it. Lyrical Meaning & Origins