FOREIGNER’s Al Greenwood and the Sound of ’70s Rock
Ever wondered what Foreigner’s biggest hit was? Or why they were called Foreigner in the first place? Maybe you’d like to know if there are any original members left and what happened to their lead singer?
Did you see the band finally being inducted into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame?
All of these questions and more answered this week as Foreigner co-founder Al Greenwood joins us for a chat.
Al is best known as the keyboardist of the iconic rock band Foreigner, formed in 1976 alongside Mick Jones, Lou Gramm, Ian McDonald, Ed Gagliardi, and Dennis Elliott.
His classical training and experience in jazz and progressive rock were essential in crafting the band’s sound, which blended hard rock with sophisticated keyboard arrangements.
During his time with Foreigner, Al contributed to the band’s first three multi-platinum albums: "Foreigner" (1977), "Double Vision" (1978), and "Head Games" (1979).
He co-wrote several of the band’s hit songs, including the classic tracks "Cold As Ice" and "Blue Morning, Blue Day."
After parting ways with Foreigner in 1980, Al didn’t step away from the music scene. He went on to co-found the band Spys in 1981, a group known for their blend of rock, pop, and new wave influences. With Spys, Al continued to showcase his skills as a songwriter and keyboardist, releasing two albums that received critical acclaim for their innovative sound. Beyond his work with that band, he became a sought-after session musician, arranger, and producer, contributing to various artists across different genres.
Al’s work in the music industry also expanded into composing for film and television, where his versatility allowed him to create scores that resonated with a wide audience.
His Legacy with Foreigner, combined with his later projects, has cemented his reputation as a pioneering figure in rock music, particularly in integrating synthesizers into the genre.
Today he plays with the ‘new’ Foreigner with singer Kelly Hansen out front. He says they’re an act to behold.
Al also tells us that the biggest thrill of his life has been the original band’s induction into the Rock N Roll Hall of Fame very recently and although it’s long overdue, he’s incredibly proud to have finally been recognised for the contribution that Foreigner made to the rock sound of the ’70s.
I hope you’ll enjoy my chat with Al as he unravels much abut one of our best loved band’s history.
