Can’t Slow Down

The Zoo Crew is spinning Foreigner's "Can’t Slow Down" from their 2009 album of the same name, a track that’s got the Zoo Freaks grooving. This song, the title track of Foreigner’s ninth studio album, marked a significant moment for the band as it was their first studio release in 15 years since 1994’s Mr. Moonlight. Released on September 29, 2009, the album introduced Kelly Hansen as the lead singer, stepping in after Lou Gramm’s departure in 2003. A notable piece of trivia comes from a post on X by @ForeignerMusic, celebrating the album’s 15th anniversary in 2024, highlighting that the single “When It Comes To Love” from the album hit the top 20 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart. The music video for “When It Comes To Love” is available on YouTube, showcasing the band’s enduring energy. Hansen brought a fresh vocal dynamic to “Can’t Slow Down,” which was produced by Martyn Frederiksen and Mick Jones, aiming for a modern yet classic Foreigner sound.

Another interesting tidbit about “Can’t Slow Down” is its recording process, which took place in both Nashville and New York, blending the band’s rock roots with a polished, contemporary edge. In a 2009 interview with Songfacts, Mick Jones shared that the album was a deliberate effort to reconnect with fans while appealing to a new generation, emphasizing catchy, timeless Hansen’s vocal performance on the title track was praised for its raw power, echoing the band’s early hits like “Hot Blooded.” The album also featured a bonus disc with live performances and remixes, a treat for Zoo Freaks who love Foreigner’s live energy. Fans on the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group often share stories of seeing the band perform “Can’t Slow Down” live, noting how the song’s driving rhythm and soaring vocals get the crowd roaring.

Foreigner was formed in 1976 in New York City by British guitarist Mick Jones, who had previously played with bands like Spooky Tooth, and multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald, formerly of King Crimson. The band’s name came from the mix of British and American members—half the original lineup, including Jones, McDonald, and bassist Rick Wills, hailed from England, while Lou Gramm, drummer Dennis Elliott, and keyboardist Al Greenwood were American. This transatlantic blend gave Foreigner a unique sound, merging British rock influences with American hard rock and pop sensibilities. Jones recruited Gramm, who was fronting a cover band called Black Sheep, after being impressed by his vocal range. Their self-titled debut album in 1977, featuring hits like “Feels Like the First Time” and “Cold as Ice,” went multi-platinum, establishing them as arena rock giants.

The band’s early years were marked by intense creativity and some tension, as Mick Jones took a leading role in songwriting and production, shaping Foreigner’s signature sound of anthemic hooks and emotional ballads. In a Songfacts interview, Gramm explained their songwriting philosophy: “We try to make things simple, catchy, and timeless,” a mantra that carried through to “Can’t Slow Down.” Over the years, lineup changes occurred, but Jones remained the constant, guiding the band through challenges like Gramm’s health issues in the late 1990s, when he battled a brain tumor. Foreigner’s resilience and ability to evolve kept them relevant, with over 80 million records sold worldwide, as noted on their official website. They were inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2013, a testament to their songwriting legacy.

Zoo Freaks can stay connected with Foreigner through their official website, where they’ll find tour dates, merch, and news. The band is active on social media, sharing updates on Facebook, Instagram, and X. Fans can also join the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group to swap stories, share concert photos, and celebrate the band’s music. For more fan-driven content, check out the Foreigner Forum, where devotees discuss everything from classic albums to recent shows. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to the Zoo Crew’s vibes, “Can’t Slow Down” and Foreigner’s legacy are sure to keep the party going.