About the song
“I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as an enduring anthem of love and introspection, penned by Mick Jones of the British-American rock band Foreigner. Released in November 1984 as the lead single from their album “Agent Provocateur,” the song swiftly captured hearts worldwide, soaring to number one on charts in both the United Kingdom and the United States. It remains Foreigner’s most successful and beloved track to date, cherished for its emotive power and timeless appeal.
Jones, reflecting on the genesis of the song, described its origin as a late-night revelation in 1984, a moment he considers a gift from a higher source. Despite differing accounts about its creation between Jones and former Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm, who asserted significant creative input, the song emerged as a collaborative effort heightened by its profound emotional resonance.
The production of “I Want to Know What Love Is” was marked by its incorporation of the New Jersey Mass Choir, associated with the Gospel Music Workshop of America, and featured backing vocals by Jennifer Holliday, lending a soulful depth to the track. Tom Bailey of the Thompson Twins contributed notable keyboard work, enriching the song’s musical tapestry.
The recording process was infused with spiritual undertones, as Jones recounted a poignant moment when the choir and band gathered in a circle to recite The Lord’s Prayer, inspiring a heartfelt rendition captured in a single take. This collective effort elevated the song to a level of intimacy and sincerity that resonated deeply with listeners.
Upon its release, “I Want to Know What Love Is” ascended quickly to the top of the charts, dethroning Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming Foreigner’s first and only number one pop single in both the UK and the US. Its success extended globally, topping charts in Australia, Canada, Ireland, New Zealand, Norway, and Sweden, among others.
Critically acclaimed for its dreamy, hypnotic atmosphere and Gramm’s soulful vocals, the song has endured as a staple of classic rock radio and earned its place among Rolling Stone magazine’s greatest songs of all time. Its impact and legacy continue to resonate, with Jones himself ranking it among his favorite compositions.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” not only defined a moment in Foreigner’s career but also transcended generations, capturing the universal quest for love and connection in a way that continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the song’s profound emotional resonance and musical craftsmanship, solidifying its place as a timeless classic in the annals of rock history.
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Lyrics
… I’ve gotta take a little time
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case I need it when I’m older
… This mountain, I must climb
Feels like a world upon my shoulders
Through the clouds, I see love shine
Keeps me warm as life grows colder
… In my life, there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life
… I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me (hey)
… Gotta take a little time
Little time to look around me
I’ve got nowhere left to hide
Looks like love has finally found me
… In my life, there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
Can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely life
… I wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show me
… I wanna know what love is (I wanna know)
I want you to show me (I wanna feel)
I wanna feel what love is (I know, I know, and I know)
I know you can show me
Let’s talk about love
… I wanna know what love is
(Love that you feel inside)
I want you to show me
(I’m feeling so much love)
I wanna feel what love is
(And you know, you just can’t hide)
I know you can show me
… Oh, I wanna know what love is
(Let’s talk about love)
I know you can show me
(I wanna feel)
I wanna feel what love is
(And you know you just can’t hide)
I know you can show me
I wanna feel what love is (oh, I wanna know)
I want you to show me