About the song
“I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as a monumental power ballad by the British-American rock band Foreigner. Released in November 1984 as the leading single from their fifth studio album, *Agent Provocateur*, this track quickly became a defining moment for the band. It soared to the top of the charts, claiming the number one spot both in the United Kingdom and the United States, and remains Foreigner’s most significant hit to date.
The song’s journey from its inception to its release was one of collaboration and emotional intensity. Written primarily by Mick Jones, the track also involved significant contributions from former lead singer Lou Gramm. Despite some creative disagreements regarding the songwriting credits, the collaboration yielded a timeless piece of music. The backing vocals from the New Jersey Mass Choir, coupled with Jennifer Holliday’s soulful performance, added a profound layer of depth to the song. Notably, Thompson Twins’ Tom Bailey contributed on the keyboards, further enriching the song’s production.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” was celebrated for its emotional resonance and musical prowess. The song’s blend of introspective lyrics and grandiose choir arrangements created a powerful and moving experience. Critics praised its dramatic build-up and Gramm’s evocative vocal delivery. According to *Cash Box*, the song was “highly dramatic and ultimately very touching,” while *Billboard* highlighted its transformation from a quiet introspection to a grand production number.
The track achieved remarkable commercial success, topping the charts in multiple countries including Australia, Canada, and Sweden. It was also notably successful in the United States, where it knocked Madonna’s “Like a Virgin” off the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100. It became the fourth highest-charting single of 1985 and remains one of the most enduring hits from the era.
The legacy of “I Want to Know What Love Is” is further cemented by its continued acclaim. It was ranked among Rolling Stone magazine’s greatest songs of all time, and its impact on music history is underscored by its double-platinum certification in the UK in 2023. The song’s ability to evoke deep emotions and its musical sophistication ensure its place as a classic in the annals of rock and pop music.
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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