“I Want to Know What Love Is” stands as one of the most iconic power ballads of the 20th century, a timeless anthem that has captivated millions. Crafted by the renowned British-American rock band Foreigner, it emerged from the creative genius of band member Mick Jones. This unforgettable track was the lead single from their fifth studio album, Agent Provocateur, released by Atlantic Records in December 1984.
According to a revealing interview featured on classicrockmagazine.com, the spark for this soft rock masterpiece struck Mick Jones during the quiet depths of night:
“I always worked late at night, when everybody left and the phone stopped ringing. ‘I Want to Know What Love Is’ came up at three in the morning sometime in 1984. I don’t know where it came from. I consider it a gift that was sent through me. I think there was something bigger than me behind it. I’d say it was probably written entirely by a higher force…”
This hauntingly beautiful song is more than just a composition; it is an emotional journey that resonates deeply with listeners of all ages, especially those who have experienced the complexities of love and life.
In another poignant account shared on classicrockmagazine.com, Jones recounted the emotionally charged collaboration with the New Jersey Mass Choir:
“We did a few takes, and it was good, but it was still a bit tentative. So then they all got round in a circle, held hands and said The Lord’s Prayer. And it seemed to inspire them, because after that they did it in one take. I was in tears, because my mum and dad were in the studio too, and it was so emotional.”
Indeed, this track remains the most successful and best-known song to ever come from Foreigner’s extensive repertoire.
Its success is undeniable: “I Want to Know What Love Is” achieved Platinum certification in the UK and a staggering 2x Platinum in the US, marking it as a true classic. Its enduring acclaim is cemented by its prestigious placement at #479 on Rolling Stone Magazine’s list of the “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
The lyrics of the song amplify its gripping emotional power, invoking images of personal struggle, resilience, and a yearning for love that many can profoundly relate to:
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
This song, loaded with emotional intensity and universal themes, continues to be a beacon for those yearning to understand the profound experience of love.
