2024
Sammy Hagar
With their distinctive fusion of crunching riffs and infectiously catchy hooks, Foreigner proved a band could rock hard and rise to the top of the pop charts. Their potent synthesis of gritty American attitude and classic British melodicism, plus their winning way with an emotional rock ballad, ensured an enduring legacy. Generations of fans and ambitious rockers alike continue to find inspiration in this Anglo-Yank quintet’s perennial radio hits.
Induction
Impact
Signature Sound
Beginning with guitar-focused, anthemic ‘70s rock, featuring soaring vocals, driving rhythms and indelible melodies, Foreigner’s sound evolved to include more keyboards and a focus on heartfelt balladry. Into the ‘80s, both the lineup and the sound became more streamlined, with layered synthesizers and big singalong choruses, all embraced by radio.
Guitarist/mastermind Mick Jones’ first song for the band, released at the height of disco, went to No. 4 on the Hot 100.
From the Museum
Mick’s VintageBlack Beauty
For his signature sound with Foreigner, Mick Jones heavily modified this 1957 Gibson Les Paul Custom, removing one of the three pickups and extensively rewiring it for a distinctive “fat” sound.
In 2008, Gibson released a limited-edition “Inspired By” signature model replicating these features, including a one-piece mahogany body, aged ebony finish, gold hardware and actual dings and scars for a vintage look.
Everything that made me want to be a record producer came from being in the studio watching Foreigner make records.
Mark Ronson
2024 Hall of Fame Essay
"Foreigner’s infectious, hooky tunes, wrapped in meticulously crafted sound, set the airwaves afire."
– Robert Burke Warren
Influence
Mott the Hoople
Johnny Halliday
Spooky Tooth
Free
Foreigner
sealed with a signature
This is the signature that appears on the inductee’s plaque at the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame to officially commemorate their induction.
More from
the Hall
