Foreigner first got together in 1976 in New York City, with an original lineup that was half-American, half-British. Founding member Mick Jones suggested the name because no matter which country they toured, half the band would be foreigners.
In addition to Jones on guitar, the original lineup comprised vocalist Lou Gramm, drummer Dennis Elliott, Al Greenwood on keyboards, bassist Ed Gagliardi, and multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald. The band has sales of more than 80 million records worldwide, including US sales of 38 million records.
Foreigner was successful from the beginning. They released “Foreigner,” their debut, only a year after they formed, and it was a Top 10 hit in the US, reaching No. 4 on the charts and receiving a 5x Platinum rating form the RIAA. Two tracks from the album, “Cold as Ice” and “Feels Like the First Time” were Top 10 singles.
Their next album in 1978, “Double Vision,” included the title track and “Hot Blooded,” which both hit the charts. The 7x Platinum album climbed to No. 3, and “4,” which they dropped in 1981, was a No. 1 hit and held the top slot for ten weeks.
They have changed the lineup several times but continue to tour. A review says:
“Foreigner showed they still have what it takes . . .”
Foreigner will be at The Reno Ballroom on November 1. Using poster printing, organizers of events like this can help publicize them.