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 has expressed hope that the band will continue performing its classic hits despite having no original members left in the current touring lineup. Greenwood, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with Foreigner in 2024, says the new musicians are dedicated to preserving the band's signature sound.

Why it matters

As classic rock bands age, the question of whether they can or should continue touring without any original members has become a topic of debate. Greenwood's comments provide insight into how some founding members view the evolution of their bands and the importance of maintaining the musical legacy.

The details

Greenwood notes that while Foreigner's current lineup does not include any original members, the band's co-founder Mick Jones is heavily involved in selecting new musicians who are 'very respectful' of the group's sound. Greenwood, along with original frontman Lou Gramm, still makes occasional appearances with the band. Greenwood says he hopes the Foreigner name and music 'goes on forever,' even suggesting that The Rolling Stones should consider replacing Mick Jagger and Keith Richards rather than retiring.

  • Foreigner was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in October 2024.
  • Greenwood and Foreigner are currently co-headlining the 'Double Trouble Double Vision' tour with Lynyrd Skynyrd in the summer of 2026.

The players

Al Greenwood

Co-founder of the rock band Foreigner, who was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame with the band in 2024.

Mick Jones

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

Lou Gramm

Original frontman of Foreigner who still makes occasional appearances with the band.

Mick Jagger

Lead singer of the iconic rock band The Rolling Stones.

Keith Richards

Guitarist and co-founder of The Rolling Stones.

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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)

“We're in our mid-70s or early 80s, so it's hard for us to go out anymore.”

— 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)

“They have to go on forever. If they could find people who can fill those shoes, that would be incredible because the music is brilliant. I wouldn't like to not be able to see that music being played.”

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

What’s next

Foreigner and Lynyrd Skynyrd are expected to continue their co-headlining 'Double Trouble Double Vision' tour throughout the summer of 2026.

The takeaway

Greenwood's comments highlight the delicate balance classic rock bands must strike between honoring their musical legacy and adapting to the realities of aging musicians. While some fans may be resistant to bands without original members, Greenwood's perspective suggests that preserving the iconic sound can be more important than strict lineup continuity.