Written by: Victor Malone

Lou Gramm: The Legendary Voice of Foreigner

Lou Gramm is one of the most iconic voices in rock music, best known as the co-founder and lead vocalist of the legendary band Foreigner, with hits like "Juke Box Hero," "Waiting for a Girl Like You," and "Feels Like the First Time."

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Born Louis Andrew Grammatico on May 2, 1950, in Rochester, New York, Gramm was exposed to music from an early age. His father, Bennie Grammatico, was a band leader and trumpeter, and his mother, Nikki (née Masetta), was a singer.

Gramm attended Gates-Chili High School in Rochester, graduating in 1968, and went on to study education and art at Monroe Community College.

Rise to Fame with Black Sheep

In the 1970s, Gramm became the frontman for the band Black Sheep, which was the first American band signed to the Chrysalis label. They released their debut single, "Stick Around," in 1974, and two albums, Black Sheep (1975) and Encouraging Words (late 1975).

However, the band's success was short-lived, as their equipment truck was involved in an accident on the ice-covered New York State Thruway on Christmas Eve, 1975, ending their tour.

The Formation of Foreigner

In 1976, Gramm met Mick Jones, who was looking for a lead singer for a new band he was assembling. Gramm auditioned and got the job, and the band, initially known as Trigger, was later renamed Foreigner.

With Foreigner, Gramm's powerful vocals and songwriting skills helped the band achieve incredible success, with hits like "Cold as Ice," "Hot Blooded," and "Double Vision."

Solo Career and Later Years

In the 1990s, Gramm pursued a solo career, releasing several albums, including Lou Gramm (1987), (1990), and Ready or Not (1995).

In 2013, Gramm was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, and in 2024, he was selected as an inductee for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Foreigner.

Legacy and Impact

Lou Gramm's powerful voice and songwriting skills have left an indelible mark on rock music. His contributions to Foreigner's success have made him a legendary figure in the industry.

Gramm's music has stood the test of time, with Foreigner's hits remaining staples of classic rock radio to this day.

• "Feels Like the First Time" (1977)
• "Cold as Ice" (1977)
• "Hot Blooded" (1978)
• "Double Vision" (1978)
• "Juke Box Hero" (1981)
• "Waiting for a Girl Like You" (1981)

These classic hits, along with Gramm's powerful vocals and songwriting skills, have cemented his place as one of the greatest rock vocalists of all time.