Foreigner’s “I Want to Know What Love Is”: The 80s Power Ballad That Defined a Generation

Released in 1984 on the album Agent Provocateur, “I Want to Know What Love Is” is Foreigner’s most iconic ballad and one of the greatest power ballads of the 1980s. Written by guitarist Mick Jones, the song combines soaring vocals, gospel-inspired backing, and heartfelt lyrics that resonated with listeners worldwide.

With lead singer Lou Gramm’s passionate and emotional delivery, the song conveys the longing to understand the depth and meaning of true love. It blends rock with soulful gospel elements, featuring the New Jersey Mass Choir, Jennifer Holliday, and backing by Dreamgirls star Thompson Twins. The result is a timeless anthem of vulnerability and hope.

𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐫 – 𝐈 𝐖𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐓𝐨 𝐊𝐧𝐨𝐰 𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐋𝐨𝐯𝐞 𝐈𝐬

At its heart, “I Want to Know What Love Is” is about searching for real, unconditional love. Mick Jones described it as a spiritual moment of inspiration, written late at night when emotions took over. The yearning lyrics reflect a universal human desire—to find love that transcends loneliness and uncertainty.
The song was released in November 1984 and became Foreigner’s first and only #1 hit on the US Billboard Hot 100.

It also topped the charts in the UK, Canada, and Australia, making it one of the most successful singles of the decade.

Rolling Stone later included it in their list of the Greatest Songs of All Time.

The choir’s gospel backing elevated the song’s emotional impact, making it stand out from other rock ballads of the era.

It has been covered by numerous artists, including Mariah Carey (2009), whose version also charted worldwide.

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