Classic Rock Legend Lou Gramm Returns with First Album in 17 Years

The original voice of Foreigner releases 'Released', a mix of new and older songs.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 2:20am

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An abstract, minimalist illustration featuring stark, jagged silhouettes in bold red, black, and white shapes, conceptually representing the musical legacy of classic rock singer Lou Gramm.After over 50 years in the music industry, Lou Gramm's new solo album 'Released' marks the end of an era for the legendary Foreigner co-founder.Rochester Today

Classic rock icon Lou Gramm, the original lead singer of Foreigner, is set to release his first new solo album in 17 years titled 'Released'. The Rochester native has been working on the album for over two years with longtime collaborator Bruce Turgon, featuring a blend of new material and songs originally written for his solo work in the 1980s and 1990s. Gramm has had a storied career, leaving Foreigner multiple times to pursue his own projects, but has remained a beloved figure in the industry, reuniting with the band in recent years.

Why it matters

Gramm's return to music after nearly two decades is a significant event for classic rock fans. As the voice behind some of Foreigner's biggest hits, his solo work has always been highly anticipated. This album release marks a new chapter for the legendary singer as he prepares to retire from the music industry.

The details

Gramm's 'Released' album will feature a mix of new songs as well as older material he had previously written for solo projects like 'Ready or Not' (1987) and 'Long Hard Look' (1989), and his side group Shadow King in 1991. The album was a labor of love, with Gramm working closely with longtime friend and collaborator Bruce Turgon over the past two years to bring it to fruition.

  • Gramm left Foreigner in 1990 and again in 2003 to pursue a solo career.
  • Gramm released two solo albums in the late 1980s - 'Ready or Not' (1987) and 'Long Hard Look' (1989).
  • Gramm also released albums with his side projects Black Sheep, Poor Heart, and Shadow King in the 1990s.
  • 'Released' is Gramm's first new solo album in 17 years, set for release in 2026.

The players

Lou Gramm

The original lead singer of the classic rock band Foreigner, known for hits like 'Juke Box Hero' and 'I Want to Know What Love Is'. Gramm is a Rochester native and music icon who has had a storied solo career alongside his work with Foreigner.

Bruce Turgon

Longtime friend and collaborator of Lou Gramm, who has worked with him on various solo projects over the years, including the new album 'Released'.

Foreigner

The classic rock band co-founded by Lou Gramm, known for hits like 'Juke Box Hero' and 'I Want to Know What Love Is'. The current lineup features singer Luis Maldonado, bassist Jeff Pilson, keyboardist Michael Bluestein, guitarist Bruce Watson, and drummer Chris Frazier.

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What they’re saying

“I feel I've done all there is to do in the music industry and I'm ready to move on to other pursuits.”

— Lou Gramm

What’s next

Gramm plans to retire from the music industry after the release of 'Released', spending more time with his family and enjoying his home and surroundings.

The takeaway

Lou Gramm's return to music with his first new solo album in 17 years marks a significant milestone for the classic rock legend. After a storied career with Foreigner and as a solo artist, Gramm is ready to step away from the industry and focus on the next chapter of his life.