About the Song
Released in December 1984 as the lead single from Foreigner’s fifth studio album, Agent Provocateur, “I Want to Know What Love Is” became one of the defining power ballads of the 20th century. Written by the band’s guitarist and co-founder Mick Jones, the song achieved global success and remains Foreigner’s most iconic track.
Creation and Inspiration
Mick Jones described the song’s creation as a late-night burst of inspiration. Writing it alone at 3 a.m., he felt the lyrics and melody were guided by a force greater than himself. “I consider it a gift that was sent through me,” Jones said, attributing the song’s soulful resonance to this almost spiritual experience.
The Role of the New Jersey Mass Choir
The song’s emotional depth was amplified by the addition of the New Jersey Mass Choir, whose powerful gospel vocals brought a transcendent quality to the track. According to Jones, the choir’s pivotal take followed a moment of prayer, elevating their performance to an unforgettable level. The recording session was particularly moving for Jones, as his parents were present to witness the magic in the studio.
Chart Performance and Legacy
“I Want to Know What Love Is” reached No. 1 in the United States, the United Kingdom, and numerous other countries, becoming a multi-platinum sensation. Certified Platinum in the UK and 2x Platinum in the US, the song has endured as a timeless anthem of longing and vulnerability.
Its cultural impact was cemented when it was ranked #479 on Rolling Stone magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” Its universal theme of searching for love and understanding has resonated across generations, making it a staple of Foreigner’s catalog and a hallmark of the power ballad genre.
Whether heard in a concert arena or a quiet moment of reflection, “I Want to Know What Love Is” continues to evoke deep emotions, securing its place as a classic in the pantheon of rock music.
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 meAdvertisementAdvertisement
