Say You Will

The song Say You Will by Foreigner, featured on their 1987 album Inside Information, is a standout track that showcases the band’s evolution from their raw rock roots to a more polished, synth-driven sound. According to Wikipedia, the song, co-written by Lou Gramm and Mick Jones, was a commercial success, reaching No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 and holding the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot Mainstream Rock Tracks chart for four weeks starting December 19, 1987. One intriguing piece of trivia is that the music video for Say You Will was directed by David Fincher, who later became a renowned filmmaker known for movies like Fight Club and The Social Network. This connection adds a layer of cultural significance to the song’s legacy, as Fincher’s early work in music videos helped shape his cinematic style.

Another interesting tidbit comes from Allmusic’s review of the album, which notes that Say You Will exemplifies Foreigner’s “balancing act” during the late 1980s. The band tempered their early guitar-heavy style with slick arrangements, incorporating layers of chiming synthesizers and electronic textures. Lou Gramm’s quasi-operatic vocals were softened to fit the song’s polished production, making it a bridge between their classic rock origins and the pop sensibilities of the era. Fans on Foreigner’s official Facebook page often share nostalgic stories about the song, with some recalling how it was a staple at high school dances or a soundtrack to their 1980s road trips, highlighting its enduring emotional resonance.

Foreigner was formed in New York City in 1976 by British guitarist Mick Jones, formerly of Spooky Tooth, and ex-King Crimson multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald, alongside American vocalist Lou Gramm. According to Wikipedia, the band’s name was inspired by the mix of British and American members, ensuring that half the band would always be “foreigners” no matter where they performed. Jones and McDonald, seasoned musicians with deep roots in the British rock scene, connected with Gramm, whose powerful vocals became a defining element of the band’s sound. They rounded out the original lineup with drummer Dennis Elliott, keyboardist Al Greenwood, and bassist Ed Gagliardi. Their self-titled debut album in 1977, featuring hits like Feels Like the First Time and Cold as Ice, catapulted them to stardom, selling over five million copies in the U.S. alone.

The band’s early days were marked by relentless touring and a commitment to crafting melodic, radio-friendly rock. Mick Jones, the primary songwriter, drew from his experiences working with artists like George Harrison and Peter Frampton, infusing Foreigner’s music with a blend of British rock sophistication and American energy. Lou Gramm, hailing from Rochester, New York, brought a soulful intensity to the band, having previously fronted the band Black Sheep. By the time Inside Information was released, Foreigner had already sold tens of millions of albums worldwide, cementing their status as one of the best-selling rock bands of all time, with over 80 million records sold, as noted on their official website.

For fans looking to connect with Foreigner’s legacy, the band maintains an active online presence. Their official website offers tour dates, merchandise, and a fan club for dedicated Zoo Freaks who want to stay in the loop. You can follow them on Facebook, where they have over 2.9 million followers and regularly post about their 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction and new releases like the compilation album Turning Back the Time. On Instagram, they share behind-the-scenes photos and concert clips, while their X account keeps fans updated with quick news and interactions. For fan communities, the Foreigner Fans Facebook Group is a vibrant space where Zoo Freaks swap stories, share rare photos, and discuss favorite tracks like Say You Will. Additionally, fan-run sites like Foreigner’s Fan Club provide exclusive content and a sense of community for long-time supporters.