Foreigner’s Lou Gramm recently opened up about his current relationship with bandmate Mick Jones. He revealed that Jones is battling end-stage Alzheimer’s disease in an interview with Lipps Service.
The discussion arose when Gramm was asked about his ongoing relationship with Jones. Jones has stepped away from the band’s regular live performances due to health struggles.
When asked about his relationship with Mick Jones today, Gramm provided a candid response about the guitarist’s condition.
“It’s pretty good. He’s in end stages of Alzheimer’s. So our conversations are [everything is sort of water under the bridge at that point],” Gramm said.
The singer elaborated on the challenges of maintaining their connection given Jones’ condition.
“I mean it is for me but I can’t tell how he is. He’s distant,” Gramm continued.
This revelation provides new insight into the health challenges facing one of rock’s most influential guitarists and songwriters.
Mick Jones, born in 1944, has previously faced significant health issues that affected his ability to perform with Foreigner. The guitarist was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2011. This led to his reduced involvement in the band’s touring activities. This earlier diagnosis marked the beginning of Jones’ gradual step back from regular live performances. He continued to contribute to the band’s creative process when possible.
Jones and Gramm co-founded Foreigner in 1976. They created one of the most successful arena rock bands of the late 1970s and 1980s. Their partnership produced numerous hit songs, including “Cold as Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.” However, their professional relationship was not without its challenges. Gramm left the band in 2002 following his own health struggles, including a brain tumor diagnosis.
The two musicians reunited for special occasions, most notably during Foreigner’s induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2017. This reunion demonstrated that despite past differences, both men maintained respect for their shared musical legacy and the impact they had on rock music.
As of recent years, Foreigner has continued touring with Kelly Hansen handling lead vocals and Thom Gimbel on guitar, among other musicians. The band has maintained an active touring schedule, performing their classic hits for audiences worldwide. Jones has remained largely out of the public eye due to his health conditions.
