“I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner’s Soulful Power Ballad of Longing and Redemption
Released in 1984, “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner stands as one of the most moving and successful ballads in rock history. This track, written by Foreigner’s founding member and guitarist Mick Jones, marked a departure from the band’s rock-driven roots, bringing in elements of gospel and soul that gave the song a universal appeal. As a defining hit of the 1980s, the song topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and reached No. 1 in several countries worldwide, solidifying its status as one of the era’s most beloved anthems. Over time, it has become emblematic of the profound questions and emotional experiences that love elicits, capturing a timeless sentiment in a way that only a true power ballad can.
The lyrics of “I Want to Know What Love Is” convey a deep yearning and vulnerability, exploring the theme of searching for true love and understanding. With lines like, “I want to know what love is, I want you to show me,” the song speaks to the universal human desire to find a love that is both genuine and transformative. Mick Jones has shared in interviews that the song was written during a period of personal introspection, and that sense of honesty resonates in the lyrics, which blend simplicity with a depth that appeals to listeners across generations. The plea for love and clarity in the lyrics is both relatable and compelling, inviting listeners to reflect on their own experiences with love, connection, and self-discovery.
Musically, the song’s production is grand and atmospheric, featuring rich layers of synthesizers, piano, and electric guitar, along with a stirring choir led by the New Jersey Mass Choir. This gospel choir added a spiritual dimension to the song, giving it an emotional weight that resonates with the listener. Lou Gramm’s lead vocals are raw and impassioned, his voice soaring with a mix of strength and tenderness that captures the complexity of the song’s themes. The choir’s backing vocals and the powerful orchestration build to a climactic chorus, where the music swells and fills with a sense of revelation and hope, echoing the lyrical journey of searching for meaning in love.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” not only achieved massive commercial success but also struck a chord that went beyond typical rock audiences. Its emotional appeal and fusion of rock, gospel, and pop created a sound that was both innovative and universally accessible, helping it to endure as a classic. For Foreigner, this song became a defining moment in their career, showcasing a depth and vulnerability that resonated with millions. It remains one of their most enduring hits, a song that listeners turn to for comfort, inspiration, and understanding of love’s complexities. Through its powerful message and unforgettable melody, “I Want to Know What Love Is” has become more than just a song—it’s a heartfelt anthem of longing, faith, and the profound journey toward understanding the true nature of love.