Feels Like the First Time

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin the classic track Feels Like the First Time by Foreigner from their debut album, Foreigner. This song, released in 1977, marked a pivotal moment for the band, soaring to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. Mick Jones, the band’s founder, wrote it during a transformative period in his life, reflecting on a fresh start after leaving a previous marriage and moving from England to America. In a quote from Wikipedia, Jones shared, “It was signifying a new start in my life,” capturing the song’s optimistic energy. The track’s blend of booming guitars and Lou Gramm’s intense yet controlled vocals made it a standout, with Billboard praising its “tasteful, high energy rock” and spine-tingling guitar chords.

The song’s impact extended beyond the charts, popping up in pop culture over the decades. It’s featured in films like Magic Mike (2012), Anchorman 2 (2013), I, Tonya (2017), and even the end credits of Marvel’s Eternals (2021). It also found a place in the rhythm game Guitar Hero: Warriors of Rock in 2010, proving its enduring appeal. On X, the band celebrated the song’s legacy, noting its debut on the Billboard Hot 100 at No. 89 on March 27, 1977, before climbing to its peak. Lou Gramm, in a 2018 post on X, shared a rare live performance from Mantra Studios in Chicago, giving fans a glimpse of the song’s raw energy when Foreigner was just starting out. Critics like Dave Marsh from Rolling Stone noted its Roxy Music-like synthesizer and eternal thump, cementing its place among the era’s hard-rock gems.

Foreigner formed in 1976, bringing together three Englishmen—Mick Jones, Ian McDonald, and Dennis Elliott—and three Americans—Lou Gramm, Al Greenwood, and Ed Gagliardi—hence the band’s name. Mick Jones, a seasoned songwriter who had worked with artists like George Harrison and Peter Frampton, was the driving force. Before Foreigner, Jones was part of the band Spooky Tooth and had spent years honing his craft in England and France. After relocating to New York, he assembled the group, aiming for a sound that bridged hard rock and radio-friendly melodies. Lou Gramm’s audition was a defining moment; he sang four songs, including Feels Like the First Time, which secured him the role of lead singer and helped the band land a recording contract. Their debut album, released in 1977, went five times platinum, launching them into stardom.

The band’s journey wasn’t without challenges. Jones’ vision for Foreigner evolved through lineup changes, but their knack for crafting hits like Cold as Ice and I Want to Know What Love Is kept them dominant through the ‘70s and ‘80s. With over 80 million records sold worldwide, Foreigner’s legacy is undeniable. Fans can connect with the band on their official website, Facebook, Instagram, and X. For Zoo Freaks looking to dive deeper, check out fan communities like the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group, where enthusiasts share news, memories, and concert experiences. The Foreigner Fan Club on their official site also offers exclusive updates and perks for dedicated supporters.