Foreigner is a British-American rock band formed in 1976 by veteran English musician Mick Jones and American singer Lou Gramm. Known for their blend of rock, pop, and blues, Foreigner became one of the most popular rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s.
Foreigner Career Highlights
1976: Foreigner is formed by Mick Jones, Ian McDonald, and Lou Gramm. They quickly recruit Dennis Elliott, Al Greenwood, and Ed Gagliardi to complete the lineup.
1977: Release their self-titled debut album "Foreigner” which includes hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice."
1978: Release "Double Vision” which goes multi-platinum and includes hits like "Hot Blooded" and the title track "Double Vision."
1979: Release "Head Games” featuring the hit "Dirty White Boy."
1981: Release "4” their most successful album, including hits like "Urgent” "Juke Box Hero” and "Waiting for a Girl Like You."
1984: Release "Agent Provocateur” featuring their biggest hit "I Want to Know What Love Is."
1987: Release "Inside Information” with hits like "Say You Will" and "I Don't Want to Live Without You."
1990: Lou Gramm leaves the band due to creative differences but returns in 1992.
1994: Release "Mr. Moonlight” marking the band's shift towards a more mature sound.
2003: Mick Jones reforms the band with a new lineup including Kelly Hansen as the lead vocalist.
2005: Release "Can't Slow Down” their first studio album in 15 years.
Foreigner Members
Current Members:
Mick Jones – guitar, keyboards
Kelly Hansen – lead vocals
Jeff Pilson – bass
Michael Bluestein – keyboards
Bruce Watson – guitar
Chris Frazier – drums
Former Members:
Lou Gramm – lead vocals
Ian McDonald – guitar, keyboards
Dennis Elliott – drums
Al Greenwood – keyboards
Ed Gagliardi – bass
Rick Wills – bass
Mark Rivera – saxophone, keyboards
Johnny Edwards – lead vocals
Foreigner Grammy Awards
Foreigner has not won any Grammy Awards but has been nominated several times, particularly in the late 1970s and 1980s.
Three Most Famous Foreigner Songs
1. "I Want to Know What Love Is” A global hit and their most iconic song, known for its powerful balladry and gospel choir.
2. "Cold as Ice” One of their earliest hits, showcasing their signature rock sound with catchy piano riffs.
3. "Juke Box Hero” A classic rock anthem about the dream of rock stardom, featuring memorable guitar riffs and powerful vocals.
Foreigner Quotes
Mick Jones
Foreigner has always been about the songs, and that's what keeps us going.
Lou Gramm
Our music is the soundtrack to many people's lives, and that's something we're very proud of.
Foreigner Scandal/Gossip/Trivia
- Creative Differences: Lou Gramm's departure in 1990 was due to creative differences with Mick Jones. Their relationship was often strained but also marked by mutual respect.
- Health Issues: Lou Gramm battled health issues, including a brain tumor in the late 1990s, which affected his voice and performance abilities.
- Reformation: Mick Jones' decision to reform the band with a new lineup in the 2000s was initially met with skepticism but proved successful as they continued to tour and record new music.
- Longevity: Despite numerous lineup changes, Foreigner has maintained a strong presence in the rock world, continuously touring and attracting new fans.
- Musical Influence: Foreigner's blend of rock and pop elements has influenced countless bands and artists across various genres.
Foreigner’s Legacy
Foreigner's ability to produce timeless rock anthems and power ballads has cemented their place in rock history. Their music continues to resonate with fans old and new, demonstrating the enduring appeal of their sound and songwriting.
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