I Want to Know What Love Is

This powerful ballad, I Want to Know What Love Is, was released in November 1984 as the first single from Foreigner's fifth album, Agent Provocateur. The song became a resounding success, reaching number one in both the UK and the US Billboard Hot 100, and remains the band's biggest hit to date. Its impact endures, as it reappeared on major charts in the 2000s, 2001, and 2002. It was even recognized by Rolling Stone magazine among the best songs of all time on two separate occasions. Guitarist Mick Jones describes it as a gift, something that came about at three in the morning in 1984, feeling that there was a higher force behind its creation.

The composition of I Want to Know What Love Is generated some internal debate. While Mick Jones is the credited songwriter, former frontman Lou Gramm claimed to have contributed significantly to its creation. Accounts of authorship percentages vary, but what is certain is that the song was produced by Jones and Alex Sadkin. To give it its distinctive sound, the vocals of the New Jersey Mass Choir, associated with the Gospel Music Workshop of America, were added, along with the participation of Jennifer Holliday, star of Dreamgirls. Additionally, Tom Bailey, frontman of Thompson Twins, contributed keyboards. The recording took place in December 1983, and the single was released under the Atlantic label. The song, with its deep emotional weight, was met with praise for its drama and the musical versatility that Foreigner demonstrated.