Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is: Lyrics and Music Video

"I Want to Know What Love Is" by Foreigner is a powerful ballad and one of the most iconic love songs of the 1980s. Released in 1984 as the lead single from their album Agent Provocateur, the song is a heartfelt exploration of love, vulnerability, and emotional connection. Written by Mick Jones, the band's guitarist and founding member, it became their most successful single, reaching #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topping charts globally. Known for its soulful choir accompaniment and emotional resonance, the song remains a timeless anthem of longing and introspection.

Key Details:

• Release Date: November 1984
• Album: Agent Provocateur
• Writer: Mick Jones
• Producer: Mick Jones and Alex Sadkin

Themes and Meaning:

• Searching for Love and Meaning: The song captures the universal longing to understand and experience deep, true love.

• Vulnerability and Emotional Honesty: The lyrics convey a sense of openness and the courage to admit uncertainty and desire for connection.

Lyrics Overview:

The chorus expresses the core sentiment of the song:

• "I want to know what love is / I want you to show me."

These lines highlight both the yearning for love and the willingness to embrace its complexities and lessons.

Musical Style:

• Epic Rock Ballad: The song blends rock and soul elements, featuring a soaring melody, dramatic instrumentation, and a gospel-like choir.

• Dynamic Vocals and Choir: Lou Gramm’s powerful and emotive lead vocals are complemented by the New Jersey Mass Choir, adding depth and a spiritual quality to the song.

Commercial Success:

• Chart Performance:
  • "I Want to Know What Love Is" reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and topped charts in the UK, Australia, and many other countries.

The song became Foreigner’s signature hit and solidified their place as one of the top rock bands of the 80s.

Background and Creation:

• Personal Inspiration: Mick Jones wrote the song during a reflective period in his life, drawing from personal experiences and a desire to explore deeper themes of love and human connection.

• Collaborative Production: The inclusion of the choir and lush orchestration elevated the song’s emotional impact, making it stand out as a genre-defining ballad.

Legacy and Reception:

• Timeless Appeal: "I Want to Know What Love Is" remains a classic, frequently played at weddings, romantic occasions, and in emotional contexts.

• Signature Song for Foreigner: While the band has numerous hits, this track is often regarded as their most iconic and enduring.

• Critical and Fan Acclaim: Praised for its emotional depth and musical complexity, the song is widely regarded as one of the greatest power ballads of all time.

Cultural Impact:

• Pop Culture Staple: The song has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, often evoking themes of love and self-discovery.

• Global Influence: Its universal message and emotive delivery have resonated with audiences worldwide, making it one of the most beloved songs of its era.

In Summary:

"I Want to Know What Love Is" by Foreigner is a timeless rock ballad that explores the complexities of love and emotional connection. Released in 1984, it became a global hit and remains a cornerstone of 80s music. With its heartfelt lyrics, powerful vocals, and iconic choir arrangement, the song endures as a deeply moving anthem that continues to touch listeners around the world.