Foreigner – I Want To Know What Love Is
“I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is a power ballad that has left an indelible mark on the landscape of rock music since its release. Featured on the band’s fifth studio album, “Agent Provocateur,” which came out in 1984, the song soon garnered massive acclaim, becoming one of the band’s most iconic tracks. Written by Foreigner’s Mick Jones, the song combines rock elements with a gospel choir to create a moving and resonant sound that transcended typical rock ballads of the time. This crossover of rock with gospel influences resulted in a song that enjoyed widespread appeal, connecting with a diverse audience on an emotional level.
The composition of “I Want to Know What Love Is” is notable for its rich layering of sound and its emotive lyrical content. Mick Jones penned the song during a time of personal and professional transition, which is reflected in the introspective and yearning nature of the lyrics. The track opens with a melancholic piano melody, gradually building with the inclusion of synths, electric guitar, and percussion. As the song progresses, it reaches a crescendo with the inclusion of the New Jersey Mass Choir, transforming it into a powerful anthem that explores the complexities of love and vulnerability. This fusion of rock and gospel not only elevated the track musically but also allowed it to touch on deeper emotional themes.
The lyrics of “I Want to Know What Love Is” are both direct and profound, posing questions about the nature of love and the quest for emotional understanding. The chorus—”I wanna know what love is / I want you to show me”—echoes the universal human desire for connection and clarity in matters of the heart. The simplicity of the lyrics, combined with their earnest delivery, makes them relatable and poignant. They capture the essence of longing and hope, resonating with anyone who has sought genuine emotional bonds.
In live performances, “I Want to Know What Love Is” often serves as the emotional high point of Foreigner’s concerts. The band frequently incorporates local choirs to replicate the song’s choral elements, bringing a unique and localized flavor to each performance. This participation not only enriches the live experience but also underscores the song’s universal appeal. The communal aspect of these performances further amplifies the song’s themes of unity and understanding, providing audiences with a shared, transcendent experience.
The impact of “I Want to Know What Love Is” extends beyond its initial commercial success. It reached the number one spot on charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom, marking a milestone for the band. Its influence can be seen in the numerous covers and renditions by various artists across different genres. From Tina Arena’s soulful interpretation to Mariah Carey’s powerful rendition, the song’s adaptability and continued relevance are a testament to its enduring legacy. Each cover brings something new to the table, revealing different facets of the song’s emotional depth.
Culturally, “I Want to Know What Love Is” has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in the pop culture canon. Its themes of love and introspection make it a fitting choice for narratives that explore personal growth and relationship dynamics. The song’s ability to evoke such strong emotions has made it a perennial favorite for various media, serving as a musical shorthand for moments of yearning and introspection.
The power ballad’s success is also attributed to its timing, as it was released during an era when rock bands were experimenting with softer, more introspective music. This period saw a rise in the popularity of ballads that explored personal and emotional themes, broadening the appeal of rock music to wider audiences. “I Want to Know What Love Is” effectively captured this zeitgeist, becoming emblematic of the era’s musical and cultural shifts.
In conclusion, “I Want to Know What Love Is” by Foreigner is more than just a hit song; it is a work that captures the essence of human emotion through its heartfelt lyrics and powerful composition. Its ongoing legacy is a testament to the universal themes it touches upon, continuing to resonate with listeners worldwide, both in its original form and through the numerous interpretations it has inspired over the years.
