The album, which is still untitled, will be Yusuf's – formerly Cat Stevens – first non-religious release in 28 years.

Both Sir Paul and Parton feature on the album's lead single, 'Boots & Sand', which is inspired by the Yusuf's refused entry into the US in 2004.

The singer, who changed his name in 1978 after converting to Islam, was detained by American security officials apparently as a result of mistaken identity following 9/11.

Speaking to Billboard, Yusuf described the song as “a slight oddity”.

“The image I had was kind of a cowboy B-movie made in Italy, but the story came from real events, real people,” he said.

The album is due to be released in late spring.

(by Jason Gregory)