“I gotta take a little time, a little time to think things over…” These opening lines of Foreigner’s iconic power ballad, “I Wanna Know What Love Is,” resonate with a universal yearning. The song, released in 1984, isn’t just another love song; it’s an exploration of the profound desire to understand and experience true love, a sentiment that transcends romantic relationships and delves into deeper, perhaps even spiritual, realms.
The beauty of “I Wanna Know What Love Is” lies in its lyrical ambiguity and emotional depth. While on the surface, it speaks of heartbreak and the quest for love after pain, the lyrics can be interpreted on multiple levels. Lou Gramm’s powerful vocals convey a raw vulnerability, a genuine plea to be shown what true love truly means. This yearning isn’t confined to romantic love alone; it can be seen as a search for connection, meaning, and even a higher form of love, resonating with those seeking spiritual understanding.
What elevates “I Wanna Know What Love Is” beyond a typical rock ballad is Foreigner’s masterful arrangement, particularly the incorporation of the New Jersey Mass Choir. This unexpected collaboration infused the song with a gospel fervor, adding a layer of spiritual gravitas to the already emotionally charged lyrics. The choir’s soaring vocals in the chorus transform the song into an anthem, a collective cry for love that feels both personal and universal. Initially, some might have found the blend of rock and gospel unusual, even questioning its sacrilegious nature. However, Mick Jones, Foreigner’s songwriter, envisioned the choir as integral to expressing the song’s profound emotional core. He sought to capture a raw, authentic feeling, and the New Jersey Mass Choir, through their faith and passionate performance, delivered just that, solidifying the song’s spiritual undertones.
Adding another layer of vocal brilliance to the song’s climax is Jennifer Holiday. Known for her powerhouse voice from the Broadway musical Dreamgirls, Holiday’s inclusion in the final chorus takes “I Wanna Know What Love Is” to even greater heights. Her explosive vocals amplify the song’s emotional intensity, creating a truly unforgettable and uplifting finale. This dynamic combination of Gramm’s rock vocals, the gospel choir’s soulful harmonies, and Holiday’s theatrical power culminates in a powerful musical experience that continues to move listeners decades later.
The enduring appeal of “I Wanna Know What Love Is Song” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level while simultaneously addressing universal themes of love, longing, and the search for meaning. Whether interpreted as a romantic plea, a spiritual quest, or simply a powerful expression of human emotion, the song remains relevant and resonant. Even in modern times, the song’s message of seeking connection and understanding love in its truest form continues to strike a chord, reminding us of our shared human desire for love and belonging. Just as the song offered solace and connection during times of isolation, its message of love and unity remains timeless and profoundly moving.
