On this day February 2 1985, I Want to Know What Love Is by Foreigner became the number one song in America, marking one of the biggest power ballads of the decade. The song blended arena rock emotion with gospel inspired backing vocals, creating a dramatic and heartfelt sound that stood apart from typical rock singles.
I Want to Know What Love Is reflected how mid 1980s music embraced vulnerability and emotional openness alongside grand production. Its chart topping success showed how rock bands could reach massive audiences by leaning into sincerity and universal themes, helping redefine what a mainstream rock hit could be.
80s insight: The mid 1980s elevated emotional power ballads to mainstream dominance.
I Want to Know What Love Is reflected how mid 1980s music embraced vulnerability and emotional openness alongside grand production. Its chart topping success showed how rock bands could reach massive audiences by leaning into sincerity and universal themes, helping redefine what a mainstream rock hit could be.
80s insight: The mid 1980s elevated emotional power ballads to mainstream dominance.
