About the song
In the realm of music, there are songs that entertain, songs that inspire, and then there are songs that transcend the boundaries of mere entertainment to touch the very soul of the listener. Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is” falls into the latter category, a poignant and evocative ballad that explores the universal human yearning for true connection and love.
Released in 1984 as the lead single from their ninth studio album “Agent Provocateur,” “I Want to Know What Love Is” quickly became a worldwide hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining in the top ten for seven weeks. The song’s success propelled “Agent Provocateur” to become one of Foreigner’s best-selling albums, further cementing their status as one of the most popular rock bands of the 1980s.
Written by Lou Gramm, Mick Jones, and David Rosenthal, “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a heartfelt plea for understanding and connection. The song’s lyrics, infused with raw emotion and poetic imagery, paint a vivid picture of a person yearning to experience the depths of true love.
The song’s melancholic tone is perfectly complemented by its soaring melody, characterized by Gramm’s powerful vocals, Jones’s intricate guitar work, and the band’s signature lush harmonies. The song’s opening piano riff, simple yet evocative, has become one of the most recognizable in rock music history.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, and Mariah Carey. The song has also been featured in numerous films and television shows, further cementing its place as a cultural touchstone.
More than just a hit song, “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. Its poignant lyrics, haunting melody, and raw emotional power have made it an anthem for anyone who has ever searched for the meaning of true love. “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a reminder that even in the midst of uncertainty, the human heart’s desire for connection and love remains a powerful force.