Lou Gramm recently discussed his return to Foreigner as a guest singer. He cited concerns about founding guitarist Mick Jones’ health and his desire to represent the band’s legacy during a period of renewed attention in an interview on the Beyond The Vibe podcast.
Gramm explained his motivations and concerns about the band’s current situation when asked about the timing of his return to Foreigner.
“Well, I know that since we were inducted into the Rock Hall Of Fame, there’s been a lot reinterest in the band — the early band and the band as it currently is,” Gramm said.
He then addressed Jones’ health situation and its impact on the band’s activities.
“And I know [Foreigner’s founding guitarist] Mick [Jones] is not in good health,” he continued. “I think if he was in good health, he would be out there with this band, and maybe I would be joining him.”
Gramm concluded by explaining his sense of responsibility to the band’s legacy.
“But he’s not well enough to play, and I feel like I wanna help fly the flag for the band — the original band, and the current band right now, in these waning moments and moments when we’re getting so much attention for what we’ve accomplished over the years,” he said. “I wanna be out there as one of the original members to wave the flag.”
Gramm’s comments come at a time when Jones’ health challenges have become more publicly known. This sheds light on the personal struggles behind the band’s current touring arrangements.
iHeartRadio reported that Jones revealed in early 2024 that he has been battling Parkinson’s disease for several years. The progressive neurological condition has increasingly affected his ability to perform on stage. This forced him to make difficult decisions about his involvement with the band he founded.
Jones stepped away from live performances two years ago. However, Slowly Radio confirmed that he remains actively involved behind the scenes with Foreigner and continues to produce shows for the band’s ‘Historic Farewell Tour’. This behind-the-scenes role allows him to maintain his connection to the music while managing his health condition.
Beyond his work with Foreigner, Jones has taken on a role as an advocate for Parkinson’s awareness. The Michael J. Fox Foundation documented that he recently participated in the 2025 Parkinson’s Unity Walk hosted by the foundation to raise awareness and funds for research into the disease.
The revelation of Jones’ condition provides context for Gramm’s decision to step forward as a representative of Foreigner’s legacy. The band’s founding guitarist is unable to tour. Gramm’s return serves as a bridge between the classic lineup that defined the band’s sound and the current iteration continuing their farewell tour.
