Mick Jones (R) with Foreigner’s longtime lead singer Kelly Hansen (Photo: Krishta Abruzzini; used with permission)
Mick Jones, the guiding force of Foreigner since its start as a British-American rock band in 1976, has revealed that he’s been battling Parkinson’s disease. The musician and songwriter posted the news today (February 21, 2024) on the band’s Facebook page. At the outset, Jones acknowledged that “fans will have become very aware that for some time now, I have not been performing onstage with the band. A number of years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease.” Jones, the writer or co-writer (with singer Lou Gramm) of such hits as “Feels Like the First Time,” “Hot Blooded” and “I Want To Know What Love Is,” turned 79 on December 27.
The post continued, “I want everyone to know that I am doing alright, however, I’ve always like to be at my best when performing onstage, and sadly at present [I] find that a bit difficult.”
Watch Jones perform a 1977 favorite in 2022
Jones continued, “I’m still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence. Parkinson’s is a daily struggle; several of my friends are also dealing with the disease. The important thing is to persevere with the loving support of my family, and remind myself of the wonderful career I’ve had in music.
“I thank all the fans who have supported Foreigner throughout the years and continue to attend our concerts. Please know I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, especially so at this point in my life.”
Foreigner has been nominated for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame’s Class of 2024. The February 10 announcement was noteworthy in that, unlike many of their classic rock peers that have been inducted in recent years such as Journey, Bon Jovi, and Cheap Trick, this was the first time that Foreigner had even been nominated.
The band is continuing its farewell on the road this year as a co-headlining tour with Styx, though Foreigner has no original members in the lineup. Tickets are available here.
3 Comments so far
Jump into a conversationNOW is the time for Foreigner to be inducted into the RRHOF !!
This is sad news, although it’s not surprising. His health has been declining for some time now. All the best to Mr. Jones and to Foreigner as they close out their career.
No Lou Gramm equals no foreigner