About the song
“I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as a defining power ballad by the British-American rock band Foreigner. Released in November 1984 as the lead single from their fifth studio album, *Agent Provocateur*, this song marked a monumental moment in the band’s career, becoming their most significant hit to date. Its sweeping melody and emotionally charged lyrics struck a chord with audiences worldwide, propelling it to number one on both the UK Singles Chart and the US Billboard Hot 100. The song’s enduring appeal is reflected in its continued presence on radio charts and its acclaim in Rolling Stone’s lists of the greatest songs of all time.
The creation of “I Want to Know What Love Is” was a deeply personal and somewhat mystical experience for Mick Jones, the song’s primary writer. Jones described the writing process as almost serendipitous, suggesting that the song felt like a gift from a higher force. He and former Foreigner frontman Lou Gramm, who has claimed a significant role in its creation, labored over the song’s composition, which included contributions from the New Jersey Mass Choir and Dreamgirls star Jennifer Holliday. The choir’s participation was notably influential, adding a gospel-infused depth that became a hallmark of the song’s powerful sound.
Despite initial reluctance and creative tensions—Gramm and Jones had differing views on the song’s credit, with Gramm feeling his contributions were undervalued—the track was ultimately completed and released to widespread acclaim. The song’s dramatic build-up, combined with its heartfelt lyrics and orchestral arrangements, resonated deeply with listeners, making it an anthem of love and introspection.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” achieved exceptional commercial success, topping charts in multiple countries and becoming a significant part of 1980s pop culture. It was ranked as the number four Billboard Hot 100 single of 1985 and has since been certified double-platinum in the UK. The song’s music video, featuring the choir and capturing the song’s emotional essence, further cemented its status as a classic.
Critically, the song has been praised for its emotive delivery and the dramatic flair brought by both the band and the choir. It remains a staple of Foreigner’s live performances and continues to be celebrated in various forms, including an extended 12-inch single version and a notable cover by Tina Arena in 1998, which introduced a new bridge to the song.
Overall, “I Want to Know What Love Is” exemplifies the timeless nature of a well-crafted ballad, blending heartfelt lyrics with powerful musical arrangements to create a song that continues to touch hearts and inspire listeners decades after its release.
Video
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