Foreigner, one of the biggest rock bands of the late 70s and 80s, has seen numerous lineup changes over the years, but its legacy remains undeniable. At the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame ceremony, original members Lou Gramm and Al Greenwood reunited to perform and accept the band’s induction award. Their appearance was bittersweet, marking both a moment of celebration and a reminder of the band’s history.
Sadly, the original lineup of Foreigner has been fractured by loss and health challenges. Guitarist Mick Jones, who founded the band in 1976, was unable to attend due to Parkinson’s disease, and drummer Dennis Elliot was also absent. The band’s journey has been marked by tragic farewells, including the deaths of Ian McDonald and Ed Gagliardi, key members who left their mark on Foreigner’s sound.
Through it all, Mick Jones has remained the heart and soul of the band, overseeing its evolution. But what happened to the original members who helped shape its success? Let’s take a closer look at the paths they’ve taken since their time in Foreigner.
Ian McDonald Reconnected With His Musical Beginnings
Ian McDonald, a founding member of King Crimson, joined Mick Jones in forming Foreigner in 1976. He brought unique musical textures to the band’s early sound, helping the group achieve instant success with their debut album. His talents also contributed to the band’s next two albums, where his role as a co-producer helped solidify Foreigner’s growing popularity.
However, in 1980, McDonald and fellow keyboardist Al Greenwood were unexpectedly fired by Jones and Lou Gramm. McDonald, feeling betrayed, expressed his frustrations, stating that the band had become “a two-man operation.” His departure marked the beginning of a strained relationship with the band.
After leaving Foreigner, McDonald released a solo album and later formed the 21st Century Schizoid Band. He reunited with Jones and Gramm for a 2017 show but also focused on his band Honey West, which included his son. McDonald passed away from colon cancer in February 2022 at 75, leaving behind a rich legacy.
Al Greenwood and Ed Gagliardi Launched a New Musical Project
Al Greenwood, like Ian McDonald, was blindsided when Mick Jones and Lou Gramm fired him from Foreigner. He felt betrayed and bitter, recalling that he thought he meant more to the band than he actually did. This harsh departure marked a turning point in his career.
After leaving Foreigner, Greenwood teamed up with former bassist Ed Gagliardi to form Spys. The band released two albums but eventually disbanded. Greenwood then worked with various artists, including Joe Lynn Turner from Deep Purple, and continued producing and writing for others, even collaborating with rapper Redman.
In later years, Greenwood returned to the stage with Foreigner during their 40th anniversary tour. Sadly, Gagliardi passed away in 2014 from cancer complications at the age of 62.
Dennis Elliott Swapped His Drumsticks For Sculpting Tools
Dennis Elliott left Foreigner in 1993, feeling he had experienced all the band had to offer. After stepping away from music, he focused on his passion for woodworking, which he had started in 1972, even before joining Foreigner. He began crafting large wooden vessels, wall pieces, and interactive sculptures.
Elliott’s works have been featured in prestigious museums, including the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the Museum of Arts and Design in New York. His sculptures often incorporate metal, semi-precious stones, and rare wood, reflecting his unique artistic vision.
In 2017, Elliott reunited with Mick Jones for a Foreigner concert in Tampa, Florida, but he missed the band’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2024 due to scheduling conflicts.
Lou Gramm Had an On-and-Off Presence With the Band
In 1990, Lou Gramm left Foreigner following creative tensions with Mick Jones. After a brief stint with a new band, Shadow King, Gramm got sober, embraced Christianity, and returned to Foreigner in 1992. His comeback marked a renewed chapter in his career.
In 1997, while leading the band, Gramm faced a life-threatening challenge when he was diagnosed with a brain tumor that affected his vision and memory. A successful surgery saved his life, and he continued to perform with Foreigner until 2003, after which he focused on his solo career.
Gramm briefly reunited with Foreigner’s original members for their 40th anniversary tour. However, in 2024, he announced his retirement from performing to spend more time with his family and enjoy his passion for muscle cars.
Mick Jones Stayed On, the Only Original Member Left
Mick Jones, the founder of Foreigner in 1976, has remained at the heart of the band for decades. However, since 2022, he has appeared less frequently at concerts due to health struggles. In February 2024, Jones shared with fans that he was diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, explaining his absence from the stage.
Despite his diagnosis, Jones remains positive and grateful for the support of Foreigner’s fans. He acknowledged that Parkinson’s is a daily challenge but emphasized his appreciation for the incredible career he’s had. Jones thanked his loyal supporters, who continue to attend concerts despite his reduced presence.
Lou Gramm, in his autobiography, expressed frustration over the band’s continued performances without its original members. He questioned if the current lineup truly represents Foreigner or if it’s merely a tribute band playing the group’s catalog. The band’s farewell tour, which began in 2023, will continue through 2025.