How Foreigner's Biggest Hit Tore The Band Apart - Lou Gramm Interview

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lp.constantcon... REMEMBER THIS IS LOU'S OPINION. IT'S ONE SIDE OF THE STORY. MICK JONES IS MORE THAN WELCOMED TO CHAT WITH US ABOUT HIS SIDE OF THINGS.
- How Foreigner's Biggest Hit Tore The Band Apart - Lou Gramm Interview
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[@marcillioficino4663]

Without Lou Gramm's voice, Foreigner would never have gotten off the ground.

[@FreeMTrider]

For sure. He was the heart of that sound. And he is a great song writer. One of my favs.

[@rodrosco5442]

no Lou Gramm,no Foreigner...

[@anz2441]

Amen to that

[@jmscoving]

The nostalgia they do with Pilson and Kelly is a super cover band but it’s not really Foreigner. It is a great nostalgic representation of the material.

[@nrwlkguy]

I agree so much with what your saying. I seen Foreigner 4-5 times, only with Lou Gramm singing. Without Gramm, they are a cover band!!

[@Christopher-nz8ir]

Without Lou Graham There Is No Foreigner PERIOD !

[@roystonmason9125]

karaoke

[@carolk5770]

Hold your head up high Lou. You were the heart & soul of Foreigner. ❤ We all know that!

[@rogerheisler2554]

Yes, we don't give a damn who wrote it! His vocals were the draw!

[@markr.1984]

"Hold your head up" was Argent, not Foreigner.

[@joannmartinez8295]

I have to agree with you on this, it was lou's heart and soul that you heard when he sang I was a teenager in 1977 when I heard my first Foreigner song. I still get the same chills when I hear a foreigner song with Lou Gramm. They would never have gotten as big as they were without him.

[@joannmartinez8295]

​@guitarszenwe all have different opinions.

[@joannmartinez8295]

​@@rogerheisler2554yes indeed!!!

[@EricBlackmonGuitar]

Any good guitarist can play Mick's parts. NOBODY will ever replace the sound of Lou Gramm's voice. I think this story gives new meaning to the term "COLD AS ICE".

[@jamisojo]

Nobody gets the big bucks for playing a guitar part. You have to be able to create.

[@garycochran2648]

Kelly Hanson did a wonderful job of replacing Lou Gramm.

[@rchrd3353]

​@@jamisojo yeh the songwriting is the hard part. mick needs credit for writing some of this brilliant stuff. it's not only about technical skill. most of the best songs in existence don't need some prodigy to play them. there's also a reason there's so many amazing guitar players on youtube who can technically wow you, but aren't famous and don't have any good songs to their name. that being said, much of foreigner's success is due to Lou's voice, and there's no way mick deserves 100% of the credit if lou's story is true (which i believe is). sucks people can't just be happy with 50/50 like Lou was and share success.

[@Imgrateful777]

Just another masterpiece from the 80's. Outstanding song but best sung by Lou!!!! Knowing what love is, is loving God and the beautiful woman He gave me 39 years ago. We are deeper in love now. We so enjoy listening to the 70s & 80s music, especially while out cruising in the exotic speed machine I bought her a few months ago, simply because I like her. She still looks hotter than her car, and I don't mind that kind of problem! Rock on! On top of that we have 7 adult children and our 5th grandchild due soon. I am the most blessed man alive!!!!!

[@harrykadaras9459]

​@@garycochran2648he's not even 1/4 as good as Lou

[@GraphicallySpeakingMimi]

Lou was NEVER just a voice in a song. He made the song, he made Foreigner the success it was.

[@ldolphin34]

This is gospel. You can take that as a pun based on the way the interview went, but the fact that remains that Lou Gramm was more than just the guy holding the microphone. He was involved in everything Foreigner was doing, even when Mick Jones was trying to make it more like himself. There isn't a Foreigner fan out there that doesn't think Lou Gramm is one of the best vocalists ever in rock.

[@mebell9982]

Inndeed, 100 %.. thank you...

[@puppycat58]

Absolutely

[@johnlafleur9251]

I toured with Foreigner in '93 & '94. I was hired as their fitness trainer and I eventually also became their Assistant Tour Manager. I travelled on the band bus with them, unlike the crew who travelled on a separate crew bus. Lou was the nicest, most humble person you would ever want to meet. An absolute gentleman, an incredible talent with an amazing voice and a real pleasure to work with. I have nothing to say about Mick. I believe every word that Lou told in this video. Side note: I was with them in South Africa right when Apartheid ended in 1994 and a Black choir sang with Foreigner on stage when they did "I Want To Know What Love Is". That was a big thing at the time and that performance still gives me chills. I wrote an article for "Muscle & Fitness" magazine about the challenges of touring with, and training a rock group on the road. It appeared in their November 1994 issue.

[@Miadolph]

Please comment on Mick, that’s what this part of the interview is about. Would love your insight

[@SwampDweller67]

Did they also play dodgeball with your brother Pete?

[@theresaakins2317]

I don't mean to be mean but I thought Lou G. Was kind of standoffs to fans and "people below him." I'm glad yo know he's cool.

[@johnlafleur9251]

@@theresaakins2317 He's actually a little shy around strangers which may come off as standoffish to some people. Extremely nice, down to earth guy.

[@concernedcitizen5493]

Mick seems like that type of guy, im sure hes doing the same with Kelly Hanson 🙄

[@dancedance3440]

Lou Gramm, not only an incredible, unforgettable singer but a kind, humble soul. Definitely the unseen heart of Foreigner.

[@warrenp.5916]

And for as much talent that “Mick” had the end of the band is the result of Micks drug use and greed. They’ve dissolved into a cover band, living on past success.

[@incogneto3645]

I agree. He needs a Grammy. He sang the song

[@stormferdidatter370]

“Just the voice of the song. Nothing important.” -No, Lou. To fans like me, your contribution was the most important part of the song. 👍🏽👍🏽

[@danlc95]

Vocals and drums for me. Gotta have those two together. But Lou is a different animal. Any good drummer wouldn't be noticed when Lou is singing!

[@dianed.3335]

Preach! Although the new lead singer is fabulous, Lou Gramm was perfection.

[@strats991]

He was being sarcastic when he said that.

[@puppycat58]

Absolutely true

[@mikevaughan3666]

As a singing fool Lou was one of the wonderful voices I could emulate pretty well. His range was mine and it got me alot of "Love" in the 70s. Thanks Lou ! Your voice, not micks guitars, were a signature of the airwaves during my teens and 20s.

[@hilljennie27]

Had no idea that Lou was treated so unfairly. Karma is a beast. Thank you Lou for your beautiful voice. Be well.

[@charlesavino8826]

I ate dinner with Lou Gramm (Gramatico} at a fund raiser once. We talked cars and kids and I only brought up music once with a question about the sax solo on "Urgent." Lou is a pure gentleman and just a great guy. Love him.

[@MidMo4020]

Lou is one of the most important and legendary voices of rock and roll. Basically an American icon.. it sucks he lost a few million, but years from now they’ll be saying “Mick who?” He could be easily replaced and nobody would know different. But Lou’s voice IS Foreigner🔥🇺🇸

[@puppycat58]

Absolutely, I always said that

[@jamesball5743]

That’s crazy, Mick’s guitar is the difference

[@warrenp.5916]

But Foreigner would not be the band they became without the entire band!

[@lisaburke4274]

Mick can be replaced as far as the instruments he plays!! They have a new lead singer but he just don't deliver the song with the power Lou had! Lou is probably in the top 5 best singers of all the singers from the 70s to now!! Never tire of Lou Gramm

[@stricknine8623]

​@@lisaburke4274As importantly as Lou Gramm is and was,...It is absurd to think that any guitar player would do. The musical sound of bands like Foreigner come from the hands, soul and the mind of the player.. It's just absurd...Those songs would never have happened if it weren't for BOTH of them..

[@lakshmicostello900]

My first concert was Foreigner with The Cars opening. Without Lou Graham there is no Foreigner. ❤️

[@JohnMartin-yj3gv]

Same here, Foreigner with opening act Brian Adams, Ottawa Civic Centre March 1982.

[@mrknotthall]

"Gramm"

[@jimmyc2446]

There's Only One Lou Gramm!!!...The Best!!

[@randypleva2397]

I can’t sing , I can’t play an instrument, but my ears know what they like and I’m telling you Mr Gramm is the real deal NO ONE WILL EVER TAKE THAT VOICE … without him there’s nothing.

[@normatible9795]

I love that you allowed Lou to talk and we all listen intently on this music legend. Respects!

[@jackwilliams4895]

So many interviewers would have interrupted Lou. And they would have missed the story. Kudos for your patience. Bravo!

[@floydthebarber9956]

Yes. John did a masterful job letting Lou tell the entire story without interjecting. It's the mark of great interviewing.

[@davidbrunson8407]

@@floydthebarber9956 he had a lot of patience

[@goopah]

Agree with you both. I hate when the interviewer tries to 'steer' the conversation away from when the interviewee was in the middle of answering the previous question. Rare is the interviewer who can ask a question and then step out of the way. More kudos!

[@KirkHealy]

Jack, you are so right. Being in the business gives me/us an unheard appreciation for this talented host.

[@Hoodamax]

Agree 100% Thanks John. I call interviewers who interrupt "bulldozers". They LOSE whatever their guest was about to say forever. Lou is a great guy, hope he lives long and well.

[@WeaponsEducation]

Without Lou Gramm, the name Foreigner would not exist. Read his autobiography.

[@cliffordbodine5834]

Great book! "Juke Box Hero"

[@FreeMTrider]

Absolutely

[@beverlymaxwell3556]

I agree 👍 💯

[@ralex3697]

Amazing talent

[@Mark-sd7fc]

Lou was a genius, just ask him!

[@JohnNewkirk1]

Lou Gramm, for my money, will always be the heart and soul of Foreigner. Listening to the re-recorded versions of their hits without Lou I knew immediately it wasn't him. No one can replace that voice.

[@lancedibble4724]

AMEN!! GOT THAT RT!!

[@Jackmanis]

Such a shame that egos have ruined so many great bands. Love your voice Lou.

[@RFazor]

Lou, when millions of fans hear that beautiful song, the last person they think of is Mick.

[@danlc95]

Always Lou!!

[@marksvideochannel3592]

Best reply to this, well said!!!

[@abc-bu7nr]

Mick who? 😂

[@jefffrommaine5909]

Exactly 💯%

[@leoclement3801]

You are 100% correct!

[@technoforever888]

Lou Gramm one of THE greatest voices in Rock and that voice is the defining sound of Foreigner no matter what Mick says, we the fans know!!! We love you, Lou!!! Sorry that you were wronged, but one's SOUL is more important than fame or fortune. Thanks for taking the time to share your story!!!

[@williamdon3442]

Steve perry is great.

[@williambergman3840]

Absolutely priceless Lou Gramm loved him back in the day n love him Now🤩❤️❤️❤️

[@louisb5563]

Right!👍

[@technoforever888]

@@williamdon3442 Yes, like I said ONE of the greatest, Steve is one of the greatest also!!!

[@mrkimble2618]

@@technoforever888 no, lou is great, Steve is the greatest

[@Scott__C]

Without Lou's lead vocal, that song wouldn't have gone anywhere.

[@bakersfieldre]

when I think of Foreigner, I hear that great voice of Lou Gramm

[@mikegrassman4773]

Lou man, you are the reason Foreigner made it and the band would not exist without you. I would not go see them today because it's not the same without you. # lougramm

[@ferguson011]

Lou Gramm ... Steve Perry ... Brad Delp ... Bobby Kimball ... what an era for lead male vocalists. Couldn't separate them myself.

[@tinydancer36]

What a well-rounded list! I love that you included Bobby Kimball! Sad to see them age though. As a 66 year old myself, when I play their music I feel like a teen again.

[@barrylouderman7759]

Dennis Deyoung also

[@randyyoung9892]

Micky Thomas was and still is terrific

[@rubenmarin1448]

I'll add Jimi jamison 😁

[@drunk247]

Im not sure who Bobby Kimball is by name but the other 3 are the Mt Rushmore of 70s hard rock singers so Bobby must be a badass too.

[@ItalianAngel21175]

Mr. Lou Gramm, all I have to say is You Are Foreigner! It's YOUR voice everyone wanted and loved about Foreigner. When you left, the group was pretty much done. I will always credit you my friend along with most of the world. We love you Lou Gramm!!! 💯💋💖🌹

[@cutwater1965]

Lou, I think that I can speak for all of us in that we really appreciate all of your contributions to Foreign. Without a doubt, you are one of the greatest rock singer/songwriters of all time. One of my personal favorites. This transcendes 4 decades!

[@prodesign8189]

Bigger than Robert Plant as far as I am concerned.

[@habyss]

I like how Lou is telling this without interruption.

[@terryc.3390]

So, Mick's ego killed Foreigner. SHOCKING...Not! Lou is the voice of Foreigner. I know Mick was the primary songwriter, but he's got to know every Foreigner song resonated because of Lou's voice.

[@patricksmith8249]

Mick was jealous of Lou, clearly.

[@JamesDavis-sh9gh]

Mick is now catching Karma by doing endless tours with a Karaoke band just for rent money. Like what ever is left of Chicago, Mick will end up dying on the road at old age.

[@ronaldshank7589]

Man... some people don't want to give credit, where credit is due. That's just selfish! Hang in there, Lou! We love ya...and we know that you were done wrong. What Mick needs to remember, is that what goes around, comes around!

[@odurandina]

Simon & Garfunkel redux

[@grimdrum2396]

I think it was just as much greed. I've played as a semi-professional musician my whole life and some guys always have dollar signs in their mind. I've experienced cancelled shows, and equipment being sold while on tour, and the other band mates were forced to buy replacement gear to continue touring. Some people love money and love to flaunt it, no matter what their occupation. Depends were the priorities are.

[@jayceeadams4379]

Lou is a legend. His voice was one of the most distinct and original voices of all time as well as incredibly powerful and soulful. Huge love ❤

[@jimmcneely4381]

Mick deserves credit for putting together a great iconic band, however without Lou they most likely would not have had the success, Lou has or had one of the absolute best rock and roll voices of ALL TIME! History will show that he will be remembered in the top 5 rock singers ever......

[@dianed.3335]

Absolutely! His voice was perfection.

[@dancedance3440]

Agree!

[@davidhornbeck1470]

Great singer, but maybe not a top 5

[@johnnymann6465]

Top five I agree

[@alijhansen07]

Absolutely!!

[@timtravels116]

No matter the split, Lou’s contribution was absolutely immeasurable. Lou should’ve insisted on a piece. Like Chris Rock said, “I don’t know what Oates did, but I know Hall never did it without him.”

[@guidedmeditation2396]

I agree. The song writer is massively important but bringing the words on paper to life with such passion and emotion is every bit as important. Even a great cover band is just not the same. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j3mXd5qNZqmKmNU Its fine for a Howard Johnson cocktail lounge but not a mega arena .

[@bartsullivan4866]

That is a great analogy

[@AztecWench]

Yes, I concur. He should've pushed for credit on that song and not given up on it. No sense in crying about it now, IMO.

[@Adulteducation8]

I am such a huge fan of Daryl Hall and John Oates, and that line from Chris Rock is so goddamn funny!

[@dadams8086]

Lou was one of the greatest vocalists of all time. Total heart and soul.

[@sisfinley4091]

No matter what Lou was the Gorilla Glue he was the reason you was played on the radio hes the reason you had thousands of friends hes the reason your band shot to fame hes the reason for all the millions in your pocket without Lou at that time you would have not succeeded your a legend Lou ♥️ always will be . (LOU GRAHAM) THE REST WILL GO DOWN IN HISTORY AMAZING VOICE AND FRONTMAN

[@juliacray5387]

I Don’t Want To Live Without You was our first dance at our wedding! Oct 1991! Still married 31 years. I love your song Lou! 🎶

[@braxal6983]

I feel bad For Lou that he was treated unfairly. Lou is an essential part of the band without him it would have not been what it was when I was growing up. Cold as Ice in 1977 was on the radio non-stop when I was a kid. Such an Iconic song along with many others!!!!

[@riceflatpicking4954]

That first record was/is epic! I was 10 years old, got it on 8 track. Me and my music crazed buddy listened to it after school non-stop over and over. Even though I was only 10 I had a real ear and I’m so grateful to have grown up in a family that encouraged me to listen to everything.

[@cjlive5182]

Never get tired of cold as ice

[@CaptainAmerica-jw2xh]

Cold As Ice is a great song. My favorite Foreigner song is Double Vision.

[@shadowban481]

Hot bloded is one of those songs memories fly fast.

[@draco4540]

lou gramm is the face of foreigner, dennis deyoung is the face of styx, and steve perry is the face of journey. three greats of the 1970's and 1980's. the three of them made their respective groups the mega groups stadium bands) that they were.

[@scottstephenson2112]

The pride of Rochester, NY!! Still lives here and is a God amongst the people. A few years back I was at a Rochester Amerks hockey game and without introduction came out and sang the National Anthem. He was amazing and I was blown away. Lou is one of the best ever!

[@G_Machine_Joe]

I see him at the local car shows around here all the time too. Usually in the Camaro he's had forever 🤘🏼

[@norcal1962]

Funny how Lou says he only halfheartedly sang “I Don’t Want to Live Without You,” because his voice is so smooth and soulful on it. He is definitely The Voice of Foreigner.

[@franklinestep5374]

Lou you are the voice of foreigner I don't care who they get to replace that voice they can't come even close 💯% you're in my prayer's Lou ROCK & ROLL HALL OF FAMER

[@randyharbaugh7819]

Congrats John for creating an environment where Lou was able to tell his side of the story without being stepped on by the person doing the interview. Far too many people would have stepped in and possibly changed the tone of the interview. You can often learn so much more by just letting others talk

[@mitchbutler7933]

Agree. Listening to Howard Stern interview is pure torture. Interrupting every 10 seconds. Ya ya it’s your show, you got the job.

[@TrinityParaziader]

I agree 100% there is another KZbinr that I unsubscribed for that reason. He has gained interviews with some impressive artists. Yet, he controls the entire conversation without giving the artist the chance to make their point. This was a well managed interview

[@everythingmatters6308]

@@TrinityParaziader I bet he always wears a hat and glasses and can't take criticism from the comments.

[@arunphillips6977]

Lou Gramm is one of rock's best ever vocalists, and no amount of hardship or critique or unfair treatment from any other band member will ever change that. Foreigner was/is and will always be known for that amazing voice - Lou you are a legend sir!

[@dianed.3335]

Preach!!!!

[@suzetteging4050]

Yes! A legend! Absolutely ❤

[@SAmusicUncut]

Lou you are a legend. In the early 90s I was producing my first band who were supporting Foreigner in Johannesburg and they couldn’t get their parents into the venue. You disappeared for 10 minutes, came back and told us it was sorted out- and it was! You are loved around the world and I for one believe you had the best rock voice of all time!

[@Elwrt455]

Lou Gramm's amazing voice helped Foreigner achieve it's success. Heartbraking to listen to this story!

[@dennisdemark8151]

Without lead singer...Lou Gramm... it's just a tribute band. yes Kelly is a fine singer...Lou Gramm is irreplaceable.🎤🎼🎶🎶🎶🎸

[@MusicLover-ox5kd]

I didn’t care for Kelly, he wasn’t very good at lip-synching Lou’s songs. Maybe because I was watching for it but it was very noticeable to me.

[@lisamoore3036]

Queen does it right performing, "Queen with Adam Lambert." " Foreigner with Kelly Hansen" Who the he'll is that?" I still don't know where he came from. It's very sad that Mick Jones passes his tribute band off as Foreigner. I guess it is all about the money.

[@michaelgreene2920]

Fact..

[@ConstitutionMattersMost]

When Lou left, I left, they ceased to be Foreigner. Why would I go see them?

[@ConstitutionMattersMost]

@@MusicLover-ox5kd Kelly a nobody, I didn't know who he was until today. I couldn't even understand how they could even go on tour, without Lou.

[@semloclusa1630]

I started listening to Foreigner, when their first came out, only because of Lou’s voice. So distinct and powerful. Lou’s voice is one of the greatest rock & roll voices of all time! He is a survivor and an inspiration.

[@fredwright5954]

i listened to foreigner because of micks riffs..dirty white boy is the best

[@maureenchevrier2369]

Lou's fans have said it all. Without Lou's voice, his good looks, his exceptional treatment of every song he sang, and his riveting on stage presence, Foreigner would not have had anywhere near the success it had.

[@suzetteging4050]

Totally agree! ❤

[@StreetTruckinTitan]

i agree but when I need some recent live fix of Foreigner Kelly Hanson does a damn fine job Imo!

[@kentlewis987]

I saw Foreigner live in ‘85…when the gospel choir came out, it was the single greatest concert moment that I’ve ever witnessed.

[@RichardWarland]

I am as jealous as all get out!

[@MarcRice]

I had no idea that Lou was done that way. He's a great vocalist and lyricist. His is a cautionary tale: be careful who you're working with. Love you, Lou.

[@davidmaneti9788]

Mick, I feel was God led until his ego got in the way. When he fired original bass player Ed Gagliardi he was already fixing something that DIDN'T need fixing!

[@darrell6800]

Shlotz: Delp……Jones:Gramm

[@60zeller]

Well,Sholtz was Boston. He did everything (but sing)

[@Fiona2254]

@@60zeller true Boston was Sholtz baby from get go even making his own sound equipment and tricking the label by recoding in his basement.

[@scottmiller6529]

@@60zeller you don’t the real story

[@fishingfreak9734]

Lou is one of the best rock singers of all time. I remember when "Feels Like The First Time" hit the radio waves in 1977.....I think that "Cold As Ice" was the second release. I was in high school.

[@warrenbutterfield4208]

Remember that time very well 76 into 77. Those songs were kind of powerful jumping off the radio described by the DJs as a “new band“ hyped as being from England. They were neither new nor from England. Only partially true. Mick Jones had been in Spooky Tooth and he was from England, but the rest of it was a fantasy. Lou Gramm was the one with staying power when you recall the bands hay day. Mick Jones comes to mind having played the only rock concert ever at my high school opening for Leslie West right before Foreigner hit.

[@larkraines9311]

Lou Grammatico is my favorite vocalist of all time, and has been ever since I matured into the period of time in my younger years, to really appreciate music. The Foreigner 4 lp cemented that as fact, when I was about 12 - 13 years old. I remember all of this going down, like it was yesterday. I bought Lous book when it came out, and learned what really happened, instead of what was being said in the media. Mick had already known what it felt like to have superstar success, as he had made a name for himself overseas before coming to the U.S. and being involved in Foreigner. Lou was a hired gun to him from the beginning, in my opinion. He is a greedy, heartless, souless man. You don't spend that kind of time, make that many records, and then just suddenly become that way. To do that to another human being, especially considering his contributions, (not to mention that INCREDIBLE voice! Full of heart and soul! ), is something I cannot comprehend. I don't own, nor will I even listen to, ANYTHING that came out after Lou left. It isn't Foreigner without Lou. Nor will I even entertain listening to anything else that Mick has been involved with. However, I own everything Lou has accomplished. Treat yourself to the Shadow King lp. One of my favorites, along with his 1st two solo recordings, Ready Or Not, and Long Hard Look. (Both cds are signed by Lou, when I met him at the rocknroll expo in Columbus, Ohio. Lita Ford, Billy Squire, and Rik Emmet of Triumph were also there. 90, 91, maybe? Anyways, just saw this while getting ready for work, and had to add to the comments, as I am a HUGE fan of Lou. Guitar players are a dime a dozen. I do respect the talent of playing and song writing ability, arraignments, everything else that goes into it. But to be blessed with vocal cords like Lou has, is truly a gift. His personality and humble demeanor sets him in a completely different league than the one guys like Mick are in. Mick is all about the money, and has lost the passion he once had. To give Lou absolutely nothing, for the biggest song of the bands career, and take the family on a 6 month world tour via an ocean cruise, with absolutely no guilt for what he did to Lou, is pure greed. Not to mention the ego involved. What an asshole. Lou did the entire vocal on his own, with no help or criticism, and it defines that song. I understand the greedy prick wrote the song and worked with the choir, (which wasn't even his idea in the first place), but Lou should have gotten 25% at least. Even the 20% that Mick started with, would probably have earned Lou a Grammy. They were not far off from each other on that 1st offer. Lou came back with a better offer for Mick than his 1st, trying to respect his work and come to an understanding. For Mick to counter with 95%-5%, was a real dickhead and egomaniac move on his part. Then, when Lou was so frustrated and basically heartbroken that he told him to "just keep it all" in the heat of the moment, you'd think he (Mick) would think about the history, accomplishments, and friendship of the past 10 years. Nope - he kept 100% of it as if he deserved it. He damn sure did not. What a heartless bastard. I don't know how Lou stuck around for any amount of time after that. I wouldn't have anything to do with someone like that, once they showed their true colors. Easy for me to say - I'm sure Lou was thinking about the fans, and the rest of the band, too. I lost any and all respect for Mick once I learned this about him. Lou puts passion and emotion from his very heart and soul, into his vocal performance like few others can. Listen to "If I Don't Have You" off of his 1st solo recording, and you'll hear exactly what I'm referring to. He has that blessed voice, that can stir emotion in another human being, no matter what mood they are in. That's a powerful talent. Layne Staley of Alice In Chains, is another. David Pack of Ambrosia, is also a favorite. (Check out "Nutshell" by Alice In Chains, and "Ready For Camarillo" by Ambrosia.) We love you, Lou!!! You have a heart of gold, and would never even think about doing anything like Mick did to you, which makes you the much better man in the end. By far.

[@davidmathes6730]

Lou just in case you don't know you are one of the best singers to ever touch a microphone, tweeks and melodies are important, but the natural ability to sing like you, is born in, it cannot be taught, thanks for all your hard work and amazing songs!

[@tube396]

Lou, without you the success Foreigner and Mick Jones acheived would never exist. People would be saying, Mick who? It is well documented that you have one of the greatest voices in Rock & Roll history and that is an achievement only a rare few can claim.

[@debzest4life37]

Mick Who...

[@melodee.r]

Lou has one of rocks best voices , I was lucky enough to see them in 1998 .

[@erichollar5503]

Lou was an idol and icon for me when I was a kid in late elementary / early junior high. I remember a special motivational movie that was shown to us, which featured Lou. This was a huge thing for me, to see him presenting his thoughts to motivate kids. Of course I continued to love the music of Foreigner and Lou's solo work. I don't even know who Mick is, other than a member of Foreigner. I certainly think Lou is the better person out of all of this. What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? Sounds like someone doesn't really know what love is.

[@axepagode33626]

"Waiting for a girl like you" is still my favorite. The song that lived at number two for ten weeks. That had to hurt a little, because up until that point they hadn't had a number one on the pop charts.

[@davestewart2067]

And today it’s a rock ballad classic. “Physical”?!? It’s in the dustbin of history.

[@hallewis389]

Lou performed at our local high school auditorium a few years ago. I took my wife and mother-in-law who both loved Foreigner, neither knew who this artist was until the first song started playing. They could not believe how great he was. Thanks for this interview.

[@MrSummerbreeze01]

Are u serious? Where was this?

[@suzetteging4050]

Wow! That’s neat!

[@nydrone7051]

Best interviewer ever! You let Lou speak without interrupting him. I commend you!

[@SusanBishop555]

Lou Gramm IS Foreinger. What a fantastic voice. I am in love with it. Thanks so much for your talent. 😍😘🤗

[@VictoriaScamehorn]

PLEASE let Lou Gramm know HE has always been the voice and heart of Foreigner.... he sings for the love of MUSIC, not for the greed of money.

[@thomascouncil81]

Lou Gramm’s voice is a huge part of all those great Foreigner tracks & why they charted so well (even when he wasn’t really try’n hard). Great man, great voice, great group & the soundtrack of so many people’s lives.

[@williambergman3840]

Facts 👍🤪😻

[@teresamcmillan541]

Love Lou Gramm! Loved “Waiting for a Girl Like You” especially. What a great vocalist! I saw him in concert with Foreigner in ‘81.

[@alicecobb842]

That song holds special meaning for me. My husband "dedicated" Waiting On A Girl to me once. Romantic song and romantic gesture!

[@screwyootube1]

Waiting for a Girl Like You SHOULD'VE been #1! It spent 10 weeks at #2, nine of them behind "Physical" by Olivia Newton-John. A truly horrible song! I think it was fixed.

[@fredericbarclay4601]

@@screwyootube1 word. Olivia IS my favorite singer,maybe ever, but "Waiting" was better. Always thought Foreigner was British, tho'. Great Band!

[@audreyann1975]

1981 is one of my favorite eras in music 🎶. I read your comment and said to myself "ohhh my goodness 1981! That must've been an incredible concert!" You're very lucky. I turned 6 yrs old in June of 1981.

[@Fiona2254]

El saw Lou on his own about 6 years ago and he’s amazing. He sang all the hits, after all it’s his voice that made them what they are.

[@benjaminpettibone4254]

Lou, you made Foreigner what it is and always has been! Your voice is incredible, your humble spirit refreshing and your place is in all of my heart (as it is with millions of others) as a champion of making the best music. Yeah, Mick did lots of work too but his greed disgusts a lot of us in what he did to you. When I watch a video of Foreigner, I pay attention to your performance mainly as that brings a ton of satisfaction to the listening fans!

[@KingdomBuilderTV2015]

I had the pleasure of interviewing Lou about five years ago about his time in Foreigner, as well as his faith and how his brain tumor scare changed his complete outlook on life. Such a humble guy and as a kid of the 80’s growing up listening to him sing on the radio, it was a total fanboy moment as well. Being a musician and singer myself, you cannot convince me that Mick was the reason so many people listened to the band. Yeah, he may have written a lot of the songs, but had Lou’s passionate and unmatched vocals not have been on these tracks, I know Foreigner would NEVER have had the success they did. Have they had any hit songs since Lou left? Hmmm…. I don’t believe so. Great interview John, loved hearing more in-depth about the song! - Jay

[@mariannewhitefield7492]

Look at the Cars, Ric Ocasek wrote the songs but every song he sang was kind of goofy but when Ben Orr sang the songs Ric wrote man what a difference what a voice like " Drive"! What a Rock legend ! And Lou Gramm is Rock royalty! R.I. P Ben!

[@StreetTruckinTitan]

@@mariannewhitefield7492 + RIP Ric!

[@kathleenkretai5330]

I just heard the guy that they replaced Lou with but the music does not have the same feel to it, you can never replace the original who trademarks a historical piece of art with a copy, at least not to my ears.

[@VIDEOHEREBOB]

Rest assured Lou, without question, it was your passionate, soulful, iconic vocals, your voice, your tone, (on the hits and the album cuts) that made that band. Mick sure as hell knows it!

[@m118lr]

..for sure.

[@kittensanddaisies5615]

Absolutely!

[@mwilson70201]

Absolutely. though Mick might not admit it the fact that Lou's replacement sounds so much like Lou bears witness to this truth. By the way, what's the new guys name?

[@michaelmauro9335]

Mick who ?? I only think of lou Gramm when I hear those 70s and 80s hits , lou made the songs what they are today

[@VIDEOHEREBOB]

@@michaelmauro9335 Absolutely Mike. Listening and studying his singing helped me to learn just how far one can take their voice. He set the bar so high.

[@andyruller5568]

It always amazed me how people start a band young for just the love of music and the friendship. Then sprinkle in some coin...then the true colors come out. Just shows me who was the gem of this group. We all know, and love Lou!!! It's something we take pride in here in the north east as well as our neighbors in Canada, just look at the boys who created Rush. Lake Ontario has magical powers!

[@lotusmanb3832]

Lou is in the pantheon of the greatest singers of the 20th century and should be proud of the music he made. Both of Lou's solo albums are amongst my favourites and I listen to at least one song in random rotation from Ready or Not and Long Hard Look every day in my car. A tremendous artist.

[@dougpeters1625]

Thank you for letting the legend speak uninterrupted! We love you Lou.

[@delroy64]

One of the most distinctive - signature and recognized voice in rock music. He was the" Foreigner" sound.

[@dontforget2020]

Lou Gramm IS Foreigner to me. I never even knew who the keyboard player was. I guarantee Lou is the one that won hearts.

[@cherylb2008]

Lou was the voice of That group He sure went through alot

[@rickacaron]

The entire reason that I Want To Know was such a huge hit was the emotional performance by Lou Gramm and the accompaniment of the choir. Without that, the song itself would have been buried as an album track that wouldn't have gotten a sniff of a Grammy.

[@stevenadams200]

Regardless of who composes the band should always keep it equal like Rush did! Without Lou's voice there is no #1 song! Greed will always turn friends into enemies.

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

Would you do that if you ran a business? Would you give equal cuts year after year to employees who punched the clock, but didn't create and innovate? Whether Rush used that system, I don't know, but it sure didn't work for KISS.

[@totallyunmemorable]

That doesn't work very often. Bass players rarely write, and drummers almost never. You might want, in some cases, to make it equal to keep the bass player and drummer from trying to write songs. There's nothing worse - usually - than the contributions from beginner writers.

[@nitro_001newman2]

Exactly! Splitting it 50/50 is the best way to keep the band intact.

[@retrovi4128]

Rush may have been equal pay but they were equal contributors.

[@retrovi4128]

Without Lou it may not have been #1, maybe. But without Mick it was guaranteed not to be a #1, it wouldn't have existed.

[@andysott]

Foreigner was huge when I was in high school in 1978, Double Vision was a killer album. Lou Gramm IS minimum 50% of Foreigners success.

[@RichardWarland]

I'd say 110%!

[@dvongrad]

Lou Gramm is why "I Want To Know What Love Is" became my favourite song of all time. It will stay that way until I die. Kelly Hanson can never do it justice.

[@danlc95]

Lou's legacy as one of rock's greatest voices will remain forever.

[@DonRRicks]

As far as I’m concerned, there is no Foreigner without Lou Gramm. I knew that there was some tension over I Want To Know, but I never dreamed that Mick could be such a….I won’t say anymore as a Christian. But, Lou came out way ahead because he met Someone who changed his life

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

A Christian should be familiar with Proverbs 18:17. Have you heard Mick Jones explain his side of the issue?

[@davidgibson7615]

I could add it for you .. Mick was a prick

[@louisb5563]

​@@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel Where can the interview be found?

[@dranderson6071]

@@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel I have. Mick destroyed Foreigner. His greed and power tripping destroyed Foreigner. Now he tours with hired hands who do as they're told. I miss Foreigner

[@JamesDavis-sh9gh]

@@dranderson6071 Yup. Even to the point where he opens now for Kid Rock and is trying to to collect rent money. He is to Foreigner what Harold Melvin was to The Blue Notes and just as worse.

[@MS-rs8le]

95 -5 was just down right SPITEFULL! Mick you A hole! Lous voice made this song! Lous still bitter about this years later Wish they could see eye to eye again! All about money Im sure??? Great interview Love to hear Micks side now???

[@mcmillanjustin903]

Foreiger is my favorite band and I'm only 33. Growing up I kept hearing songs that I liked and found out it was all Foreiger so underrated

[@jimbenny3331]

Lou proved that his voice was the main attraction when he released his very own solo album and the songs were just as good as his Foreigner stuff.

[@ralex3697]

He is so wonderfully articulate and honest I wouldn’t even pay attention to them if Lou Gramm was not singing the tunes The songs were average at best, but Lou brought them to life Lou Gramm and Steve Perry were the reason Foreigner and Journey were so successful

[@waynepoling2588]

I have played guitar and sang for58 yrs. played in many different bands and church praise teams. I have always thought Lou Gramm was one of the best vocal singers....hands down. I wish my voice was as good as his, but his voice inspired me as a vocalist. Thank you Lou. You have so many people's respect as a vocalist and person.

[@Hulk-g4v]

Lu voice can not be replaced or mimicked ✅👍❤️❤️

[@cheesemouse7774]

"Feels Like The First Time" My favorite Foreigner tune hands down. Nothing else is even close. Rock on Lou!

[@raymondreid4987]

Lou Gramm is one of the most amazing vocalist for anyone to say that he didn't contribute to a song as great as I want to know what love is, is to say that he was emotionless when he sang his heart out on that track. He delivered the goods the power and the feeling of what was put down on paper. But as always the singer gets crap because he's just the singer.

[@jhpvids]

Great interview. Without question the biggest hit from that band. Beautiful song. Blessings to you Lou Gramm ♥️

[@mattbartholomew9251]

As a fan of Foreigner since their big breakthrough in '76 nationally, and worldwide not long after, I bought every album they recorded, and still listen to all of them often. I knew from reading the liner notes on 4, and I think Foreigner live, released in '93, that there were issues of songwriting direction that sadly spelled the end of two original members years ago, but wasn't fully aware of Lou's reasons for departing until seeing this interview. How unfortunate, to say the least. Like many of these fans comments, I loved his intense, soulful, emotional, and powerful vocals on everything he sang, and he was undeniably a significant part of the bands sound and success, let alone identity. The seventies and eighties had many talented singers in classic rock, but Gramm was surely at the top. Apparently, many people agree with me, along with his peers from everything I have read and understand. Don't be bitter Lou, we love you and all your contributions to this band and music.

[@john564holloway]

This is one of the saddest stories in Rock history. When one loses millions, it's insane but this is ludicrous. So upsetting to know this happened to you, Lou.

[@srcastic8764]

It ain’t about the money.

[@mikemyers2228]

😆😆

[@toddgakk5783]

Should have took the 20%

[@jimgrizzly2357]

Poor Lou

[@martinthompson2425]

@@srcastic8764 . It starts with the principle of going from being creative partner to being just a hired gun singer. But let’s not kid ourselves, money was definitely an important factor. Mr Gramm said it himself by describing their “process” of determining percentages. Sad story. …but Lou Gramm was/is such an amazing vocalist! One of my faves in the world of rock music!

[@randaloopy]

Feeling sorry for Lou... That's a heart breaking story. 2 sides to every story but wow. The love of $$ is the root of all kinds of evil + it breaks up friendships, bands & marriages.

[@williambergman3840]

I’m so done with mick n foreigner after hearing this story! Can’t stand greedy jealous ppls n won’t support them with a penny of my money

[@beverlymaxwell3556]

Still money matters 🤝

[@seaturtledog]

The writing was on the wall that Mick was greedy when they kicked out the original members to make the album Four.

[@mrlafayette1964]

it goes deeper than money,we all like money it's what we need to live...selfishness,that's where the evil lies.

[@fivestring65ify]

@@seaturtledog Yep, that was the beginning of the end. The original band was one of the best classic rock bands of the 70's.

[@larryjohnson8687]

I've always thought Lou had the best rock voice of all time, he always put his heart and soul into everything he was involved in. Foreigner 4 is still in my top 5 favorite albums of all time and Lou's performance throughout that album is the reason why. Incredible vocalists of his caliber don't come around every day, he's definitely a legend. The sadness in this is they were much better together than they were apart.

[@siddiqkazim940]

Lou , your are the best and will stay one of the best voices in rock history. I can’t say more than that. All your songs are great

[@stormbringercoming8105]

Foreigner is their own tribute band now. Just like YES. When Lou left, so did the fire that lit that engine. This is a great interview. Sadly, it pulls back the curtain and demonstrates the what really go on inside the inner workings of a superstar band.

[@totallyunmemorable]

Foreigner, even now, is great. But it's just never the same when you lose original members and bring in some ringers. The magic is always diminished. The new guys are almost always technically better, but they just have the smell of the hired hand about them. Sadly, that was kind of what Lou was. But he's certainly not the only one to paddle that boat. Ritchie Sambora comes to mind.

[@bertbartolome9097]

just like Journey with steve Perry and Neal Schon

[@seamusin1697]

@@totallyunmemorable I wouldn't consider Foreigner great now. Kelly Hansen does his best but the tone and depth of Lou Grammy's voice in its prime was special and can't be replicated by someone who sounds too much like a generic studio rock singer that was brought in as the hired hand to fill on because the lead singer couldn't make the show on a given night.

[@andrewkelley434]

Just like Styx without Dennis DeYoung

[@fivestring65ify]

@@totallyunmemorable Ritchie Sambora got royally screwed.

[@rhondaross3144]

No Lou, No, Foreigner 😤 Lou’s voice brings chills to your soul!

[@davidospina5216]

Hello Rhonda how are you doing

[@johnc8346]

Lou Gramm is my favorite singer of all time. I saw Foreigner at the Hard Rock Orlando with Lou as the front man. He was amazing!

[@Joseph-ly2rn]

There is no doubt that Lou was and always will be the voice of Foreigner Your voice and made Foreigner the band they are and always will be. It seems it's always about greed and money. Thank you Lou for all the great music you gave us. You truly are Rock n Roll royalty

[@phatbackbeat6553]

I worked with Peter Frampton’s bass player, Stanley Sheldon, while I lived in NYC. Lou had purchased a cul - de - sac of a few houses in, I believe Worcester. Stanley and his young son lived in one of the homes. He could not say enough wonderful things about Lou, from his voice to the man himself. That’s all I need to know about this rift !

[@BigTone_1701]

Foreigner has never been the same without Lou Gramm. Lou is a tremendous vocalist and "I Want to Know What Love Is" is, perhaps, the greatest rock ballad of all time .... and quite frankly, without Lou's vocals, would never have been the hit it was regardless of the instrumentals, melody, choir, arrangement, or anything else. Lou Gramm's superb voice made Foreigner what it was in the late 1970s and 1980s. Even Lou's own solo work is superb, and it's strictly because of Lou and no one else. Greed is such a destruction force. I really hope Lou reads all of the positive comments here. And thank you for posting this interview.

[@samuelmorado70]

I read that Sting stopped recording just to hear this song when he heard it. I saw them on the Foreigner 4 tour here in Lubbock Texas. I still remember the show . Lou Gramm is Foreigner. I love Inside information. Great album . Wish I had seen that tour

[@carolynmaynard3694]

I love Foreigner! One of my favorite bands. Mr. Grahamm, your voice is so powerful it can blow a person away. I am surprised you did not break a few windows! Mr. Grahamm so many people love and respect you and your voice. You may feel you have lost but we know your voice was what made that song so perfect! You are so loved!❤ I think it is amazing you did not even try and still made a beautiful song. I Don’t Want to Love Without You is a song that reminds me of my husband. The video is amazing but your voice made that song.

[@TradBowBruce]

Lou was the voice and the vibe. There is no way Mick would have made it without Lou. He was a mediocre guitar player and if not for the soul Lou put into them, the songs would have been lackluster. Ungrateful and Selfish. If he would have given Lou the proper credit, think how big that legacy could have been!? Love ya Lou, us UpState NY boys gotta stick together! You inspred this farm kid to follow music!

[@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel]

According to his own book, Lou was cleaning restrooms and receiving public assistance when Mick offered him an audition. Lou initially refused, but Mick was gracious enough to wait a while and ask again, instead of moving on and finding another singer. Also by Lou's admission (and the album credits), a lot of the first record was already written by the time Lou joined (as the final member of six). His vocals are amazing and he deserves credit for that. But Jones had years and years of professional work under his belt, and he's the one who got the project up and running (with help from Prager). People are being awfully quick to discredit him.

[@bloodpoetvids]

Indeed

[@TradBowBruce]

@@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel that is a good point. It is just a shame that it went the way it did. The behind the scene buildup by Mick is not what the public hears. The layman hears the driving voice of Lou and identifies the band, and all that work by Mick, by it and ends up buying the records. That success gives Lou some much needed respect, and monetary credit by Mick IMO.

[@hibhibb5429]

@@TheMICMusicInspirationChannel That may be true but Mick is still an A**hole, always will be. That's just my opinion.

[@dranderson6071]

To your point and not the changed narrative, no Lou, no Foreigner.