About the song
Ah, 1984. MTV was still in its infancy, shoulder pads were reaching for the sky, and synthesizers ruled the airwaves. But amidst the synth-pop and new wave, something unexpected emerged – a power ballad that transcended trends and captured the hearts of millions. That song, of course, was “I Want To Know What Love Is” by Foreigner, the lead single from their fifth studio album, Agent Provocateur.
Now, Foreigner wasn’t exactly known for tender love songs. This was a band that had given us rock anthems like “Juke Box Hero” and “Hot Blooded.” But with “I Want To Know What Love Is,” guitarist and songwriter Mick Jones tapped into a universal yearning – the desire for a deeper connection, for a love that truly endures.
The song’s opening chords are instantly recognizable, a simple yet powerful piano motif that sets the stage for one of the most iconic vocal performances in rock history. Lou Gramm’s raspy voice, filled with both vulnerability and longing, delivers the lyrics with raw emotion. And then there’s that gospel choir – a surprising but brilliant touch that adds a spiritual dimension to the song’s message.
But “I Want To Know What Love Is” is more than just a pretty melody and soaring vocals. It’s a song that speaks to the complexities of human relationships. It acknowledges the pain of past heartbreaks (“I’ve got to take a little time / A little time to think things over”) while expressing an unwavering hope for something more (“I want to know what love is / I want you to show me”).
In a musical landscape dominated by synthesizers and drum machines, Foreigner dared to be different. They embraced a classic, almost timeless sound, blending elements of rock, pop, and gospel to create a ballad that resonated with listeners of all ages and backgrounds. “I Want To Know What Love Is” became a global phenomenon, topping the charts in countries around the world and solidifying Foreigner’s status as one of the defining rock bands of the 1980s.
More than just a hit song, “I Want To Know What Love Is” has become a cultural touchstone. It’s been featured in countless films and television shows, covered by artists ranging from Mariah Carey to Julio Iglesias, and continues to be a staple of radio airplay and wedding playlists. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless message and its ability to connect with the deepest desires of the human heart.
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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