Exploring Foreigner's Edgier Side: The Story of 'Head Games
Foreigner, formed in 1976 by British guitarist Mick Jones in New York City, quickly gained popularity with their hard rock sound and soulful vocals of singer Lou Gramm. Their debut album, Foreigner, released in 1977, was a massive success, followed by Double Vision in 1978. Despite their early achievements, Jones felt the need to infuse a more raw and earthy quality into their music, leading to the creation of their third album, Head Games.
Head Games, released in 1979, marked a shift in Foreigner's sound with the addition of new members, bassist Rick Wills, and producer Roy Thomas Baker. Baker's influence, known for his work with Queen and The Cars, brought a different edge to the band's music. The album's title track and lead single, Dirty White Boy, showcased a grittier rock'n'roll style, while tracks like Women added a frantic energy and new-wave feel to their music.
Controversy surrounded Head Games, not only for its edgier sound but also for its provocative album cover featuring a teenage girl in a suggestive pose. Despite the initial backlash, the album reached No.5 on the US charts, with Dirty White Boy climbing to No.12. However, sales of two million fell short of Foreigner's expectations, prompting Jones to explore new directions for the band.
The release of their next album, 4, co-produced by Mutt Lange, marked a return to a more polished and sophisticated sound, solidifying Foreigner's status as one of the biggest rock acts of the 1980s. While Head Games represented a brief departure from their usual style, it remains a unique chapter in Foreigner's discography, showcasing their experimentation with a raw and street-inspired sound. The controversial cover art of Head Games, though memorable, was a one-time venture for the band.