About the song
“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is a powerful ballad that has become a defining song of the 1980s. Released in 1984 as the lead single from their album Agent Provocateur, this song captures the essence of longing and the quest for emotional connection with its evocative lyrics and stirring melody.
Written by Mick Jones, the band’s guitarist and primary songwriter, “I Want to Know What Love Is” explores the complex emotions surrounding love and vulnerability. The song features a gospel choir, which adds a profound, soulful layer to its already dramatic arrangement. This unique blend of rock and gospel not only highlights Jones’s songwriting but also showcases the band’s versatility and depth.
The song achieved remarkable success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 and staying there for a total of four weeks. It also topped the charts in several other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia. The widespread acclaim of the song helped solidify Foreigner’s place in rock history and introduced their music to a global audience.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” is particularly notable for its emotional intensity and the heartfelt delivery by lead singer Lou Gramm. His powerful vocals, combined with the song’s orchestral backing and gospel elements, create a deeply moving listening experience. The song’s exploration of love’s complexities resonated with listeners, making it a timeless anthem for those seeking to understand and experience the depths of romantic emotion.
The lasting impact of “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a testament to its powerful composition and the emotional honesty of its lyrics. It remains one of Foreigner’s most beloved songs, often cited as a high point in their illustrious career and a classic example of 1980s rock ballads.