Foreigner stands as one of rock music’s most enduring and commercially successful bands, having sold over 80 million records worldwide since their formation in 1976. This British-American rock powerhouse has delivered an incredible catalog of hits that have defined classic rock radio for decades, from arena anthems to power ballads that still resonate with audiences today. Their unique blend of melodic hooks, soaring vocals from Lou Gramm, and Mick Jones’ masterful songwriting created a sound that perfectly captured the spirit of late 70s and 80s rock music.
I Want to Know What Love Is
Foreigner’s spiritual masterpiece and only number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100 remains their most iconic song. Released in 1984 from the “Agent Provocateur” album, this power ballad showcased a completely different side of the band with its gospel-influenced arrangement featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir. The song’s universal theme of searching for love and meaning struck a chord with listeners worldwide, topping charts in the US, UK, Canada, and Australia.
Producer Alex Sadkin helped craft a sound that was both intimate and grandiose, with Lou Gramm delivering one of his finest vocal performances. The track’s success proved that Foreigner could master any style, from hard rock anthems to deeply emotional ballads. Its enduring popularity has made it a staple at weddings and romantic moments, cementing its place as one of rock’s greatest love songs.
Waiting for a Girl Like You
Perhaps no other song demonstrates Foreigner’s ability to create tension and release quite like “Waiting for a Girl Like You.” This 1981 masterpiece spent an incredible 10 weeks at number two on the Billboard Hot 100, making it one of the longest-running number-two hits in chart history. The track marked a significant evolution in Foreigner’s sound, incorporating synthesizers and a more polished production courtesy of Mutt Lange.
Mick Jones described the song as writing itself, feeling like a “conduit” for the music that was flowing through him. Thomas Dolby’s synthesizer work provided the perfect atmospheric backdrop for Lou Gramm’s emotionally charged vocals. The song’s success helped establish the template for 1980s power ballads and demonstrated Foreigner’s adaptability to changing musical trends while maintaining their core identity.
Juke Box Hero
The ultimate rock anthem about the transformative power of music, “Juke Box Hero” tells the story of a young man whose life changes after witnessing a rock concert. Released in 1981 from the album “4,” this track perfectly captures the essence of rock and roll dreams and the magnetic pull of live music. The song’s autobiographical elements reflect the band members’ own journeys from aspiring musicians to arena rock stars.
Mick Jones crafted one of his most memorable guitar riffs for this track, creating a sound that literally set his amplifier on fire during the recording sessions. Lou Gramm’s passionate delivery brings the narrative to life, making every listener feel like they could be that wide-eyed kid discovering the magic of rock music. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal message about following your dreams and the power of music to change lives.
Urgent
“Urgent” marked Foreigner’s bold step into funk-influenced rock territory while maintaining their signature sound. Released as the lead single from their chart-topping album “4,” this track showcased the band’s willingness to experiment with different musical styles. The song features an iconic saxophone solo by Motown legend Junior Walker, whose contribution was meticulously crafted from multiple takes under the perfectionist guidance of producer Mutt Lange.
The track’s driving rhythm and infectious energy made it a perfect opener for Foreigner’s live shows during their peak years. Thomas Dolby’s synthesizer work added a modern edge that helped the song stand out on radio alongside New Wave and punk tracks of the early 1980s. “Urgent” peaked at number four on the Billboard Hot 100 and demonstrated that Foreigner could evolve their sound without losing their rock credentials.
Hot Blooded
Few songs capture raw desire and rock energy quite like “Hot Blooded,” Foreigner’s sultry anthem from their 1978 album “Double Vision.” The track’s memorable opening riff and Lou Gramm’s seductive vocals created an irresistible combination that propelled the song to number three on the Billboard Hot 100. Despite some playful criticism about rhyming “mind” with “mind” in the opening verse, the song’s sheer energy and memorable hook made it an instant classic.
The track exemplifies Foreigner’s ability to write songs that work equally well on radio and in arena settings. Its straightforward message and driving rhythm made it a favorite among rock fans, while its polished production ensured widespread radio play. “Hot Blooded” remains one of Foreigner’s most recognizable songs and a perfect example of their mastery of hard rock songcraft.
Cold as Ice
Originally released as a B-side in some territories, “Cold as Ice” became one of Foreigner’s most enduring hits and a perfect showcase for their melodic sensibilities. The song’s memorable piano introduction, played on the same instrument used by Aretha Franklin for many of her Atlantic Records hits, immediately grabs listeners’ attention. Lou Gramm’s vocals perfectly convey the emotional distance described in the lyrics, while the backing vocals add operatic depth to the chorus.
The track’s success as the second single from Foreigner’s debut album helped establish them as major players in the rock world. Its combination of accessible melody and rock edge made it a crossover hit that appealed to both rock and pop audiences. The song’s themes of emotional detachment and relationship frustration resonated with listeners, making it a radio staple that continues to attract new fans decades after its release.
Feels Like the First Time
As debut singles go, “Feels Like the First Time” perfectly encapsulated everything Foreigner represented as a band. Released in 1977, this track introduced the world to their unique blend of British and American rock sensibilities. For Mick Jones, the song represented a literal new beginning – he had recently married, moved to America, and formed what would become one of the most successful rock bands of the era.
The song’s optimistic energy and memorable chorus made it an immediate radio favorite, reaching the top five on the Billboard Hot 100. Its success laid the foundation for Foreigner’s career and established them as a force to be reckoned with in the competitive rock landscape of the late 1970s. The track’s enduring popularity proves that great songs about fresh starts and new possibilities never go out of style.
Double Vision
Inspired by an unusual source – New York Rangers goalie John Davidson getting knocked unconscious during a hockey game – “Double Vision” became one of Foreigner’s biggest hits. The title track from their sophomore album reached number two on the Billboard Hot 100 and perfectly captured the disorienting feeling described in its lyrics. The song’s driving rhythm and memorable chorus made it an instant arena favorite.
Mick Jones’ piano introduction became one of the most recognizable openings in rock music, instantly identifying the song after just a few notes. The track’s success helped cement Foreigner’s reputation as hitmakers and proved they could follow up their successful debut with equally compelling material. Its combination of rock power and melodic sophistication exemplified the Foreigner sound that would dominate radio throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Head Games
The title track from Foreigner’s third album showcased a slightly harder edge while maintaining their gift for memorable hooks. “Head Games” dealt with the psychological manipulation that can occur in relationships, with Lou Gramm and Mick Jones crafting lyrics that perfectly captured the frustration of romantic mind games. The song’s infectious chorus and driving rhythm made it impossible to ignore, despite its somewhat darker lyrical content.
Released in 1979, the track demonstrated Foreigner’s ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their core identity. The song features a touch of New Wave energy that reflected the changing musical landscape of the late 1970s. Its success proved that Foreigner could tackle more complex emotional themes while still delivering the kind of radio-friendly rock that had made them stars.
Say You Will
From their 1987 album “Inside Information,” “Say You Will” represented Foreigner’s continued relevance in the changing musical landscape of the mid-1980s. The track reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased the band’s ability to incorporate contemporary production techniques while maintaining their signature sound. Lou Gramm’s vocals remained as powerful as ever, conveying both vulnerability and determination.
The song’s success came during a period of tension between Mick Jones and Lou Gramm, yet their professional chemistry remained intact on this emotionally charged track. Its polished production and memorable melody demonstrated that Foreigner could adapt to the MTV era while staying true to their rock roots. The track’s exploration of commitment and trust in relationships resonated with audiences and proved the band’s continued songwriting prowess.
Blue Morning, Blue Day
One of Foreigner’s most underrated hits, “Blue Morning, Blue Day” showcased the band’s ability to create atmospheric rock that was both moody and accessible. Released from their “Double Vision” album, the track featured Al Greenwood’s keyboards as a secret weapon, adding layers of texture that elevated the song beyond typical rock fare. The combination of thoughtful lyrics and sophisticated musical arrangement made it a standout deep cut that deserved more recognition.
The song’s success demonstrated Foreigner’s range beyond their more aggressive rock anthems. Its contemplative mood and careful construction showed influences from progressive rock while maintaining the melodic sensibilities that made Foreigner radio favorites. The track remains a fan favorite and an excellent example of the band’s versatility during their classic period.
I Don’t Want to Live Without You
This powerful ballad from “Inside Information” proved that Foreigner could still create compelling emotional music even as their internal dynamics became more complicated. The song reached number five on the Billboard Hot 100 and showcased Lou Gramm’s vocal range and emotional depth. Its themes of dependence and love struck a chord with audiences during the late 1980s power ballad era.
The track’s production incorporated contemporary elements while maintaining the classic Foreigner sound that fans expected. Its success helped extend the band’s commercial viability into the late 1980s and proved that their songwriting partnership could still produce hits despite growing personal tensions. The song remains a highlight of their later period and a testament to their enduring musical chemistry.
That Was Yesterday
Following up the massive success of “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “That Was Yesterday” proved that “Agent Provocateur” wasn’t a one-hit album. The track reached number 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 and continued exploring themes of reflection and moving forward from past relationships. Lou Gramm’s vocals conveyed both regret and determination, while the musical arrangement perfectly supported the song’s emotional journey.
The song’s success demonstrated Foreigner’s ability to mine their personal experiences for universal themes that resonated with their audience. Its sophisticated production and memorable melody showed the band continuing to evolve their sound while maintaining the qualities that made them successful. The track remains a fan favorite and an excellent example of Foreigner’s skill at crafting emotionally resonant rock music.
Dirty White Boy
This gritty rocker from “Head Games” showcased Foreigner’s ability to deliver straightforward rock and roll with attitude and energy. The track’s driving rhythm and memorable chorus made it a concert favorite, while its slightly rebellious lyrics added an edge that complemented the band’s more romantic material. Lou Gramm’s vocals perfectly captured the song’s streetwise attitude.
The song represented Foreigner’s ability to rock hard when they wanted to, proving they weren’t just about polished radio hits. Its success helped establish “Head Games” as a worthy follow-up to their first two albums and showed the band could maintain their edge while continuing to grow their audience. The track remains a staple of classic rock radio and a reminder of Foreigner’s versatility.
Long, Long Way from Home
From their debut album, this track perfectly captured the band’s unique position as British musicians making it in America. The song’s themes of displacement and searching for belonging resonated with many listeners, while its musical arrangement showcased the band’s ability to create atmospheric rock that was both personal and universal. Ian McDonald’s contributions added sophistication to the overall sound.
The track’s success helped establish Foreigner as more than just a hits machine, showing their ability to create deeper, more contemplative music alongside their radio favorites. Its exploration of themes that would recur throughout their career made it an important early statement about the band’s artistic ambitions. The song remains a fan favorite and an excellent introduction to Foreigner’s more introspective side.
Starrider
One of Foreigner’s most progressive tracks, “Starrider” featured Mick Jones on lead vocals and showcased the band’s ability to incorporate elements of 1960s psychedelic rock and early 1970s progressive rock into their sound. The track’s experimental nature and extended instrumental passages demonstrated the band’s musical versatility and willingness to take creative risks on their debut album.
The song’s success among fans proved that Foreigner’s audience was open to more adventurous musical explorations alongside their radio hits. Its sophisticated arrangement and atmospheric production showed influences from Jones’ previous work while pointing toward the band’s future evolution. The track remains a deep cut favorite and an important part of understanding Foreigner’s complete musical picture.
Break It Up
From the album “4,” this energetic rocker showcased Foreigner’s ability to create powerful album tracks that complemented their hit singles. The song’s driving rhythm and memorable hooks made it a concert favorite, while its themes of relationship conflict provided a harder edge to balance the album’s more romantic moments. Lou Gramm’s vocals brought intensity and conviction to the lyrics.
The track’s inclusion on one of Foreigner’s most successful albums demonstrated their commitment to creating complete musical statements rather than just collections of singles. Its energy and attitude made it a perfect complement to the album’s bigger hits, showing the band’s ability to maintain quality throughout an entire release. The song remains a fan favorite and an excellent example of Foreigner’s album-oriented rock approach.
Girl on the Moon
This atmospheric track from “4” showcased Foreigner’s ability to create cinematic rock that transported listeners to different emotional spaces. The song’s dreamy production and evocative lyrics demonstrated the band’s growing sophistication as songwriters and arrangers. Lou Gramm’s vocals perfectly captured the song’s otherworldly mood, while the musical arrangement created a perfect sonic landscape.
The track’s success among fans proved that Foreigner could succeed with more experimental material alongside their straightforward rock anthems. Its inclusion on their most successful album showed the band’s confidence in their artistic vision and their audience’s willingness to follow them into new territory. The song remains a highlight of their catalog and an excellent example of their creative ambitions.
Tramontane
This instrumental track from “Double Vision” showcased Foreigner’s progressive rock influences and their ability to create compelling music without vocals. The song’s complex arrangement and sophisticated musicianship demonstrated the band members’ technical abilities and their willingness to experiment with different musical forms. Ian McDonald’s contributions were particularly notable on this track.
The inclusion of an instrumental on a major label rock album showed Foreigner’s confidence in their musical abilities and their desire to create complete artistic statements. The track’s success proved that their audience appreciated the band’s musical versatility and was open to more challenging material alongside their radio hits. It remains an important part of understanding Foreigner’s complete musical vision.
When It Comes to Love
From their 2009 comeback album “Can’t Slow Down,” this track proved that Foreigner could still create compelling music with their newer lineup featuring Kelly Hansen on vocals. The song reached the top 20 on the Adult Contemporary chart and demonstrated that the band’s songwriting abilities remained intact even decades after their formation. The track’s modern production complemented the classic Foreigner sound.
The song’s success showed that Foreigner’s music could still resonate with contemporary audiences while honoring their classic legacy. Its themes of enduring love and commitment provided continuity with their earlier ballads while reflecting the wisdom that comes with experience. The track helped establish Kelly Hansen as a worthy successor to Lou Gramm and proved the band’s continued relevance.
Turning Back the Time
Released in 2024 as their first new song in eight years, “Turning Back the Time” represents a remarkable reunion of original members Mick Jones and Lou Gramm. Originally written and demoed in 1996 by Jones, Gramm, and Marti Frederiksen, the song was rediscovered and completed in celebration of the band’s Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. The track features Gramm’s original vocals from the 1996 demo combined with new instrumentation from Jones and Frederiksen.
The song’s themes of reflection and nostalgia perfectly capture the band’s journey through nearly five decades of music making. Its release coincided with Foreigner’s farewell tour and Hall of Fame recognition, making it a fitting bookend to their incredible career. The track proves that great songs can transcend time, with its message resonating just as powerfully today as it would have in the 1990s when it was first conceived.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Foreigner’s biggest hit song?
“I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as Foreigner’s biggest hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1985. The song topped charts in multiple countries including the UK, Canada, and Australia, and remains their most commercially successful and recognizable track. Featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir, this power ballad showcased a more spiritual and emotional side of the band that resonated with audiences worldwide.
How many top 40 hits did Foreigner have?
Foreigner achieved 14 top 20 hits on the Billboard Hot 100, with many of these also reaching the top 40. Their most successful period was from 1977 to 1987, during which they consistently placed songs on the charts. Notable top 40 hits include “Feels Like the First Time,” “Cold as Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Double Vision,” “Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Juke Box Hero,” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
Who was the original lead singer of Foreigner?
Lou Gramm was Foreigner’s original and most famous lead singer, serving with the band from 1976 to 1990 and again from 1992 to 2003. His powerful, distinctive voice defined the classic Foreigner sound and was featured on all of their biggest hits. Gramm’s vocal range and emotional delivery were crucial to the band’s success, particularly on ballads like “I Want to Know What Love Is” and rockers like “Hot Blooded.”
What album contains most of Foreigner’s hits?
The album “4” released in 1981 contains the most Foreigner hits, including “Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” “Juke Box Hero,” and “Break It Up.” This album was their only number-one album on the Billboard 200 and spent 10 weeks at the top. It marked a creative peak for the band, with producer Mutt Lange helping to refine their sound and create some of their most enduring songs.
When did Foreigner get inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame?
Foreigner was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2024 as part of the Performer category. The induction ceremony took place on October 19, 2024, at the Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse in Cleveland, Ohio. This recognition came after years of being considered one of the Hall’s biggest snubs, with support from fellow musicians like Paul McCartney, Dave Grohl, and Slash advocating for their inclusion