About the Song
“I Want to Know What Love Is”, a song that needs no introduction for many of us. Released in 1984 by the Anglo-American rock band Foreigner, it quickly climbed the charts, becoming their only number one single on the Billboard Hot 100. Even today, it remains a timeless classic, its soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics resonating with audiences across generations.
But what is it about this song that has captured our hearts for all these years? Perhaps it’s the universal yearning for love that the song so beautifully expresses. The lyrics, penned by Mick Jones, paint a picture of someone who has experienced heartbreak and loneliness, yet still holds onto the hope of finding true love. The opening lines, “I gotta take a little time / A little time to think things over,” set the introspective tone, while the chorus explodes with a passionate plea: “I wanna know what love is / I want you to show me / I wanna feel what love is / I know you can show me.”
Beyond the lyrics, it’s the music itself that elevates the song to an iconic status. The synthesizer riff is instantly recognizable, creating a powerful emotional landscape. Lou Gramm’s soaring vocals deliver the message with both vulnerability and strength, making us believe in the character’s quest for love.
“I Want to Know What Love Is” doesn’t just ask the question; it takes us on a journey of self-discovery and emotional exploration. It reminds us that even after experiencing pain, the desire for love can remain strong, urging us to keep searching for that connection that makes life complete. So, whether you’re a lifelong fan or are just discovering this song for the first time, prepare to be swept away by the power of love, hope, and a timeless melody