Yusuf Islam reminds King Charles to be a 'servant of God' in 10-point manifesto

British singer-songwriter Yusuf Islam has issued a message to King Charles III ahead of the monarch’s official coronation in May, including a 10-point manifesto on how to be a conscientious ruler.

The folk artist, formerly known as Cat Stevens, shared his advice in a list entitled 'Manifesto for a Good King'.

"Even if you are a King, you are still a servant of God," reads the first point on the list, which also encourages Charles to "remove hatred through education" and to "help the sick and homeless".

"One of the privileges of being an artist is to express what seems unimaginable, and then hang it up there for people to ponder; we can say things that others can’t. Sure, I know full well music can’t necessarily solve the world’s problems, but it can help to direct the narrative," Islam said in a statement on his website.

Alongside the manifesto, Islam also released a track entitled 'King of a Land', which is also the title of his upcoming album.

"The major message of the song – and this applies to all those in positions of leadership – is, don't forget that there's One above you, and be careful to look out for those who are below you," Islam said.

The manifesto and song convey messages of world peace and faith that have defined his art since he converted to Islam in 1977.

His conversion came after more than a decade of success in the pop and folk circuits, during which he released 11 studio albums.

When he performed under the name Cat Stephens, his songs reflecting on change and spirituality, including 'Father and Son' (1970) and 'Peace Train' (1974), won him acclaim.

But in 1979, Islam stopped making music with instruments, believing it to be at odds with his faith. Instead, he focused on educational and humanitarian work.

After a long hiatus, he picked his guitar back up in 2006 and returned to mainstream music under the name 'Yusuf'.

King Charles has also been associated with Islam and interfaith outreach.