Searching for Love: The Emotional Core of “I Want to Know What Love Is”

Released in 1984 as the lead single from the album Agent Provocateur, “I Want to Know What Love Is” became Foreigner’s biggest hit—and a defining track of the decade. Mixing rock ballad power with gospel soul, the song is a universal cry for connection, clarity, and love.

Written by band founder Mick Jones, the track taps into something raw and timeless: the desire to understand love beyond just words or romance, but as something deep, human, and spiritual.

𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐫 – 𝐈 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐈𝐬

Chart-Topping Hit: The song reached #1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and also topped charts in the U.K., Australia, Canada, and many other countries.

Gospel Choir Power: The moving background vocals were provided by the New Jersey Mass Choir, adding a spiritual weight that elevates the song to anthemic levels.

Inspired by Real Emotion: Mick Jones wrote the song during a moment of personal reflection, saying, “I was a bit lost, musically and personally… and this song just came out.”

Cultural Impact: Over the decades, “I Want to Know What Love Is” has been featured in countless films, TV shows, and emotional moments — from Mr. Robot to Rock of Ages and beyond.

Covered by Many: Artists like Mariah Carey, Wynonna Judd, and Tina Arena have all released their own renditions, proving the song’s lasting emotional resonance.

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