About the song
Few power ballads have achieved the kind of enduring, cross-generational appeal of Foreigner‘s “I Want To Know What Love Is”. Originally released in 1984, the song became an instant global smash, topping charts worldwide and solidifying its place as a quintessential 80s anthem. But the magic of “I Want To Know What Love Is” transcends its original era. Its message of yearning for genuine connection, wrapped in a soaring melody and impassioned vocals, continues to resonate with listeners of all ages.
What truly sets this song apart is its ability to tap into raw human emotion. The lyrics, penned by frontman Lou Gramm, express a universal longing for love’s transformative power – a desire to move beyond fleeting encounters and experience the depths of true intimacy. This yearning is palpable in Gramm’s soulful delivery, his voice conveying both vulnerability and a desperate hope.
And who can forget the gospel choir? That inspired addition elevates the song to an almost spiritual dimension. The choir’s voices intertwine with Gramm’s, creating a powerful sense of yearning and communal uplift. It’s a musical moment that sends shivers down your spine, no matter how many times you’ve heard it.
Now, let’s fast forward to 2010. Foreigner, still going strong, delivered a stunning live rendition of “I Want To Know What Love Is” that captured the song’s essence in a fresh and exciting way. This performance showcases the band’s enduring musicality and their ability to connect with audiences on a profound emotional level.
In this particular rendition, the band masterfully balances the original’s power with a more mature, nuanced approach. Gramm’s vocals, though weathered by time, retain their emotional intensity, and the band’s performance is tight and dynamic. The result is a captivating listening experience that reminds us why “I Want To Know What Love Is” remains one of the most beloved and enduring power ballads of all time.
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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