Foreigner

Foreigner was founded in New York City in 1976 by British guitarist Mick Jones, along with fellow British musicians Dennis Elliott (drums) and Ian McDonald (multi-instrumentalist), and American members Lou Gramm (vocalist), Al Greenwood (keyboards), and Ed Gagliardi (bass). The band’s name reflected the mixed nationalities of its members. After a period of rehearsal, they released their self-titled debut album in March 1977, which achieved significant commercial success, being certified five million copies in the United States and peaking at No. 4. This album generated hit singles such as “Feels Like the First Time” and “Cold as Ice.” Their subsequent album, “Double Vision,” released in 1978, surpassed its predecessor in sales, achieving seven million copies sold in the US, and included the popular tracks “Hot Blooded” and the title track “Double Vision.”

The band continued its rise with “Head Games” in 1979 and “4” in 1981, the latter becoming their only No. 1 album in the US, holding the top spot for 10 weeks and featuring hits like “Urgent,” “Waiting for a Girl Like You,” and “Juke Box Hero.” Personnel changes occurred during this period, with Rick Wills replacing Ed Gagliardi in 1979, and Al Greenwood and Ian McDonald departing in 1980, leading to a four-member lineup. In 1984, their album “Agent Provocateur” produced their biggest hit, the ballad “I Want to Know What Love Is,” which reached No. 1 in several countries including the US and UK. Despite later lineup changes and a brief hiatus, Foreigner continued to release albums like “Inside Information” (1987) and “Can’t Slow Down” (2009).

Foreigner achieved worldwide sales exceeding 80 million records, with 38 million in the US alone. In 2024, the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, recognizing the founding members Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, Dennis Elliott, Al Greenwood, the late Ian McDonald, the late Ed Gagliardi, and longtime bassist Rick Wills. Mick Jones, the only constant member, has continued to guide the band through various formations. The band announced a farewell tour starting in 2023, with discussions of extending it into 2025 and 2026 to coincide with their 50th anniversary.