OldiesButGoodies

Songs

Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is

I Want to Know What Love Is - New Recording - song and lyrics by Foreigner, Shriners Hospitals Kids Choir | Spotify

Introduction:

Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is,” released in 1984, is a powerful ballad that became one of the band’s signature songs and a global hit. Written by founding member Mick Jones, the song was inspired by personal experiences of heartbreak and his search for a deeper, more enduring connection. This introspective approach broadened into a universal theme, resonating with listeners worldwide. The song’s production featured not only Foreigner’s lead vocalist Lou Gramm but also a full choir—the New Jersey Mass Choir—which added a gospel depth that highlighted the song’s emotional and spiritual qualities​.

The recording process was deeply moving, with the choir performing the song in a single, impactful take after gathering in a circle to say a prayer. This moment left Jones and many others in tears, further underscoring the emotional weight behind the lyrics and music. Released as the lead single from the Agent Provocateur album, “I Want to Know What Love Is” became a worldwide success, reaching No. 1 in the U.S., UK, and several other countries, solidifying its legacy as one of the most beloved rock ballads​.

The song’s profound message and rich arrangement have inspired numerous covers across genres, including renditions by Mariah Carey and Wynonna Judd. Despite some initial reservations within the band about its softer sound, the song’s success proved its universal appeal and emotional impact. Today, “I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as a timeless anthem of love, longing, and the human desire for connection

Video:

https://youtu.be/r3Pr1_v7hsw?si=zHUEd1XYYAdYnWhA

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