Can’t Wait

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Can’t Wait" by Foreigner from their 1987 album Inside Information, and the Zoo Freaks are surely vibing to its slick, emotive energy. This track, a standout from the album, was co-written by lead singer Lou Gramm and guitarist Mick Jones, showcasing their knack for blending heartfelt lyrics with polished rock production. In a 1988 interview with Billboard, Gramm shared that "Can’t Wait" was inspired by personal longing and the urgency of love, reflecting his own experiences during a turbulent period in his life. The song’s pulsating synths and driving rhythm, paired with Gramm’s soulful delivery, made it a radio favorite, peaking at #18 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock chart. Interestingly, the band recorded the track in New York’s Hit Factory studio, where producer Frank Filipetti pushed for a more layered, atmospheric sound, a departure from Foreigner’s earlier raw edge. Fans on the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group often cite the song’s bridge as a highlight, with its soaring vocals and tight instrumentation creating a perfect moment for air-guitar heroics.

Another tidbit about "Can’t Wait" comes from Mick Jones’ 2017 interview with Classic Rock magazine, where he revealed the song almost didn’t make the album. The band was under pressure from Atlantic Records to deliver a hit-heavy record, and Jones initially felt the track was too introspective. However, after tweaking the arrangement to emphasize the chorus, it became a fan favorite. On Foreigner’s X account, a 2022 post celebrated the song’s enduring appeal, sharing a throwback photo of the band performing it live during their 1988 tour, with fans commenting about how it still feels fresh decades later. The Foreigner Rocks fan site also notes that the music video for "Can’t Wait," with its moody black-and-white aesthetic, was a staple on MTV, capturing the late-’80s vibe of big hair and bigger emotions. The Zoo Crew might appreciate knowing that Lou Gramm once said in a 1990 radio interview that performing this song live always got the crowd moving, as its tempo was perfect for rallying audiences.

Foreigner got their start in 1976 when British guitarist Mick Jones, formerly of Spooky Tooth, teamed up with American singer Lou Gramm in New York City. Jones, a seasoned songwriter who’d worked with artists like George Harrison, wanted to create a band that fused British rock sensibilities with American soul and energy. As detailed on their official bio page, the duo recruited multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald, drummer Dennis Elliott, keyboardist Al Greenwood, and bassist Ed Gagliardi to form Foreigner. Their self-titled debut album in 1977, featuring hits like "Feels Like the First Time" and "Cold as Ice," skyrocketed them to fame, selling over five million copies in the U.S. alone. Gramm’s powerful vocals and Jones’ knack for catchy hooks became the band’s signature, and their relentless touring cemented their reputation as a live act. By the time Inside Information dropped in 1987, Foreigner had already established themselves as arena-rock giants, with a string of multi-platinum albums.

The band’s early days weren’t without challenges. According to a 2013 Rolling Stone feature, Jones and Gramm clashed over creative control, with Gramm pushing for a harder rock sound while Jones leaned toward radio-friendly pop-rock. Despite these tensions, their chemistry produced some of the ’80s’ most iconic tracks. Foreigner’s official Facebook page frequently shares nostalgic posts about their formation, including rare photos from their first rehearsals. On Foreigner’s Instagram, recent posts highlight their ongoing tours, showing how the band, now led by Jones with vocalist Kelly Hansen since Gramm’s departure in 2003, continues to draw crowds. Fans can connect on the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group, a lively community where members swap concert stories and debate the band’s best eras. Another fan hub, Foreigner Rocks, offers discographies, tour archives, and fan-submitted artwork, keeping the Zoo Freaks’ passion alive.