About The Song
Released in 1981 as the second single from their fourth studio album, “4,” “I Want to Know What Love Is” is a classic rock ballad that quickly became a global sensation. The song’s emotional intensity and catchy melody resonated with audiences worldwide, propelling it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and other countries.
The song features a power ballad arrangement with soaring vocals from Lou Gramm, a driving bassline, and a memorable saxophone solo. The lyrics explore the universal theme of searching for true love and the longing for a deep connection with another person. The song’s emotional intensity and catchy melody helped it to become a massive hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also topped the charts in several other countries and has since become a timeless classic, often covered by other artists and featured in popular culture.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” has been praised for its emotional depth and its ability to capture the universal human experience of longing for love. The song’s success solidified Foreigner’s status as one of the most popular rock bands of the 1980s, and it remains a beloved classic today.
Beyond the Chart-Topping Success
While “I Want to Know What Love Is” undoubtedly achieved commercial success, its impact extends far beyond the charts. The song has been covered by countless artists, from Celine Dion to Michael Bolton, demonstrating its enduring appeal. Its lyrics have resonated with audiences of all ages and backgrounds, touching on a universal human experience.
The song’s popularity also contributed to Foreigner’s enduring legacy. The band’s music, including “I Want to Know What Love Is,” continues to be enjoyed by fans around the world. Their influence on subsequent generations of rock musicians is undeniable, and their music remains a testament to the power of timeless songwriting.
A Cultural Phenomenon
“I Want to Know What Love Is” has transcended the realm of music to become a cultural phenomenon. It has been featured in numerous films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its place in popular culture. The song’s iconic status is evident in its ability to evoke strong emotions and memories in listeners, even decades after its release.
In conclusion, “I Want to Know What Love Is” is more than just a popular song; it is a timeless classic that has captured the hearts of millions. Its emotional depth, catchy melody, and universal themes have ensured its enduring appeal. The song’s success solidified Foreigner’s status as one of the most popular rock bands of the 1980s, and its legacy continues to inspire and entertain audiences today.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
A little time to think things over
I better read between the lines
In case I need it when I’m olderNow this mountain I must climb
Feels like a world upon my shoulders
Through the clouds I see love shine
It keeps me warm as life grows colderIn 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 lifeI wanna know what love is
I want you to show me
I wanna feel what love is
I know you can show meI’m gonna take a little time
A little time to look around me
I’ve got nowhere left to hide
It looks like love has finally found meIn my life there’s been heartache and pain
I don’t know if I can face it again
I can’t stop now, I’ve traveled so far
To change this lonely lifeI 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 want you to show me
And I wanna feel, I want to feel what love is
And I know, I know you can show me
Let’s talk about love
I wanna know what love is, the love that you feel inside
I want you to show me, and I’m feeling so much love
I wanna feel what love is, no, you just cannot hide
I know you can show me, yeah
I wanna know what love is, let’s talk about love
I want you to show me, I wanna feel it too
I wanna feel what love is, I want to feel it too
And I know and I know, I know you can show me
Show me love is real, yeah
I wanna know what love is…