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Foreigner (band)

Foreigner is a British-American rock band formed in New York City in 1976.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Foreigner is a British-American rock band formed in New York City in 1976. The group became one of the best-selling bands of all time, known for hits such as "Feels Like the First Time," "Cold as Ice," and "I Want to Know What Love Is." With over 80 million records sold worldwide, Foreigner has been a staple of classic rock radio and arena rock.

History

Foreigner formed in 1976 and released its self-titled debut album in 1977. The band achieved major commercial success through the late 1970s and 1980s with a run of hit singles and albums.

Musical style

Foreigner is generally described as a rock and hard rock band with strong pop hooks and prominent ballads. Its sound helped define mainstream arena rock and adult-oriented rock (AOR).

Commercial success

The band is among the best-selling acts in popular music, with worldwide sales exceeding 80 million records. Several of its singles became enduring classic-rock radio staples.

Lineup changes

Foreigner’s membership changed frequently after the original era, while Mick Jones remained the central continuous member. Lou Gramm and other early members were no longer part of the band’s later touring and recording lineups.

Key facts

  • Foreigner was formed in New York City in 1976 by British and American musicians.
  • The original lineup included Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, Ian McDonald, Al Greenwood, Ed Gagliardi, and Dennis Elliott.
  • The band’s debut album was released in 1977 and produced early hit singles.
  • Foreigner became widely associated with radio-friendly hard rock and power ballads.
  • The band has sold more than 80 million records worldwide.
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Canadian context

Foreigner has had long-standing popularity in Canada through classic rock radio, concert touring, and mainstream North American rock culture.

Frequently asked questions

When was Foreigner formed?
Foreigner was formed in 1976 in New York City.
Who were the original members of Foreigner?
The original lineup included Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, Ian McDonald, Al Greenwood, Ed Gagliardi, and Dennis Elliott.
What are Foreigner’s biggest hits?
Their best-known songs include "Feels Like the First Time," "Cold as Ice," "Hot Blooded," "Urgent," and "I Want to Know What Love Is."
How successful was Foreigner commercially?
Foreigner has sold more than 80 million records worldwide, making it one of the best-selling bands of all time.
What genre is Foreigner associated with?
Foreigner is associated with rock, hard rock, arena rock, and adult-oriented rock (AOR).
Is Foreigner still active?
Yes. The band has continued performing and touring with later lineups, with Mick Jones as the key founding member.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foreigner_(band)
    Supports: Formation year, origin, original lineup, and worldwide sales
  2. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — https://rockhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/2024-Induction-Ceremony-Program-Essay-Foreigner.pdf
    Supports: Band history, key early members, debut-era hits, and sales
  3. 103.5 The Arrow — https://1035thearrow.com/2023/07/11/foreigner-a-journey-through-time-and-hits/
    Supports: Major hits, original lineup, and later touring context
  4. Encyclopedia.com — https://www.encyclopedia.com/people/literature-and-arts/music-popular-and-jazz-biographies/foreigner
    Supports: General band biography, formation, and sales