Foreigner Co-Founder Hopes Band 'Goes On Forever' Despite Lineup Changes

Al Greenwood says new members are 'very respectful' of Foreigner's iconic sound

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Foreigner co-founder Al Greenwood is optimistic about the future of the band, even though the current touring lineup contains no original members. Greenwood says the new musicians are dedicated to preserving Foreigner's signature sound, and he hopes the band's music will continue to be performed live for years to come.

Why it matters

As classic rock bands age, there is an ongoing debate about whether they can still be considered the 'same' group if none of the original members remain. Greenwood's perspective provides insight into how some founding musicians view the evolution of their bands and the importance of maintaining the musical legacy.

The details

Foreigner is currently co-headlining a tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd, despite neither band containing any original members. Greenwood, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame as a co-founder of Foreigner in 2024, says that current lead guitarist Mick Jones is heavily involved in selecting new musicians who can properly replicate the band's iconic sound. Greenwood and original frontman Lou Gramm occasionally join the touring Foreigner lineup for shows, but Greenwood acknowledges the challenges of the aging original members continuing to tour full-time.

  • Foreigner was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in October 2024.
  • Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd are co-headlining the 'Double Trouble Double Vision' tour this summer.

The players

Al Greenwood

Co-founder of the rock band Foreigner.

Mick Jones

Co-founder of Foreigner who is heavily involved in selecting new members for the touring lineup.

Lou Gramm

Original frontman of Foreigner who occasionally joins the current touring lineup.

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What they’re saying

“They're very respectful of the band's sound. They ask a lot of questions: 'How did we do this? How did you play that? What sounds did you get?' They want to get it right.”

— Al Greenwood, Foreigner Co-Founder (New York Magazine)

“We call it the Foreigner family.”

— Al Greenwood, Foreigner Co-Founder (New York Magazine)

“I hope it goes on forever. Let's face it: The music really stood the test of time.”

— Al Greenwood, Foreigner Co-Founder (New York Magazine)

What’s next

Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd will continue their co-headlining 'Double Trouble Double Vision' tour throughout the summer.

The takeaway

Greenwood's perspective highlights the delicate balance between preserving a band's legacy and allowing it to evolve with new members. While some fans may be resistant to a classic rock band without any original members, Greenwood believes that as long as the music and sound are faithfully maintained, the band's spirit can live on.