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Yusuf Islam to Perform at Memorial for Christchurch Victims

Yusuf Islam, the British Muslim artist previously known as Cat Stevens, will perform later this month at a memorial concert to pay tribute to the victims of the Christchurch mosque terrorist attack, The National reported.

The folk music legend will travel to New Zealand where he will perform at the free public ceremony at Christchurch’s Hagley Park on March 29 with a number of New Zealand musicians including Maisey Rika, Hollie Smith, and Teeks.

“In the week since the unprecedented terror attack there has been an outpouring of grief and love in our country,” New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said in a statement announcing the service.

“The service will be a chance to once again show that New Zealanders are compassionate, inclusive and diverse and that we will protect those values.”

The concert comes two weeks after terrorist Brenton Harrison Tarrant killed 50 Muslim worshippers in March 15 attacks as he targeted Al Noor and Linwood mosques.

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Christchurch mayor Lianne Dalziel said Friday’s concert, held in conjunction with the city’s Muslim community, would bring people together, Virgin reported.

“The outpouring of love and support shown to our Muslim brothers and sisters has been heartfelt and it has been received in the spirit in which it has been offered,” she said.

“It is in coming together as one, standing shoulder to shoulder, that gives expression to this unity and that’s what will see us through.”

This is not the first time for the Muslim star to take part in similar events.

Last year, Islam announced that he donated over AUD 1 million from the proceeds from his 2017 Australian tour to a host local and international causes through the Penny Appeal relief organization.

“I believe that concerts are positive opportunities to receive as well as to give back, making people happy is what I love to do,” Islam said.

Islam, who started his music career in the 60s, became a Muslim in 1978. He has a chain of schools and charities.

He runs a charity organization called Small Kindness, which supports victims in conflict zones by providing relief and educational services. A percentage of his Islam’s earnings goes to the charity.