Love Has Taken Its Toll

Zoo Freaks, get ready to groove with the Zoo Crew as they spin "Love Has Taken Its Toll" by Foreigner from their iconic Double Vision album! This track, nestled on the band’s second studio album released on June 20, 1978, captures the raw energy of Foreigner’s early sound. While specific interviews or quotes about this particular song are scarce, its place on the Double Vision album—celebrated for hits like "Hot Blooded" and the title track—tells a story of its own. The album marked a pivotal moment for Foreigner, avoiding the sophomore slump with a record that sold millions, cementing their status as rock legends. Posts on X from @ForeignerMusic in 2017 and 2019 proudly commemorate the album’s anniversary, noting its enduring impact with the hashtag #Foreigner40. The song’s lyrics, painting a picture of romantic pursuit and emotional exhaustion, resonate with the album’s bold, unapologetic vibe, making it a perfect fit for the Zoo Crew’s eclectic playlist.

Diving into the album’s trivia, Double Vision was recorded between March and May 1978 and was co-produced by Keith Olsen, with a notable contribution from A&R executive John Kalodner. In a playful nod to the album’s title, Kalodner’s name appears twice in the liner notes as “John Kalodner: John Kalodner,” an idea sparked by guitarist Mick Jones to reflect the “double vision” theme. While “Love Has Taken Its Toll” didn’t chart as a single, it’s part of an album that critics like Robert Hilburn of the Los Angeles Times called “commercially powerful” but “artistically vapid,” though fans clearly disagreed, propelling the album to multi-platinum status. The instrumental track “Tramontane,” written primarily by keyboardist Al Greenwood, stands out as the only instrumental in Foreigner’s studio discography, showcasing the band’s versatility. For Zoo Freaks, this song’s driving rhythm and Lou Gramm’s soulful vocals make it a hidden gem worth cranking up.

Foreigner began in New York City in 1976, founded by British guitarist Mick Jones, who had previously played with Spooky Tooth and collaborated with artists like Peter Frampton. Jones teamed up with ex-King Crimson multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald and American vocalist Lou Gramm, whose powerful voice became the band’s signature. Drummer Dennis Elliott, keyboardist Al Greenwood, and bassist Ed Gagliardi rounded out the original lineup. The band’s name, “Foreigner,” was coined by Jones, reflecting the mix of British and American members—half the band would always be “foreign” no matter where they performed. Their self-titled debut album in 1977, featuring hits like “Feels Like the First Time” and “Cold as Ice,” launched them into stardom, with sales exceeding expectations. By the time Double Vision dropped, Foreigner had already sold over 37.5 million albums in the U.S. alone, a testament to their meteoric rise.

Stay connected with Foreigner through their Facebook, Instagram, and X accounts, where they share updates on tours, music releases, and milestones like their 2024 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame induction. Fans can dive deeper into the Foreigner fandom on sites like Last.fm, which offers track insights and streaming stats, or join discussions in fan-driven spaces like the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group. These communities keep the spirit of Foreigner’s music alive, perfect for Zoo Freaks looking to connect with fellow rock enthusiasts. So, keep those dials locked on THE ZOO, and let “Love Has Taken Its Toll” take you on a wild ride!