Lou Gramm Unveils First New Album in 17 Years: “It Rocks Hard”
A prominent classic rock artist from Upstate New York is gearing up for a highly anticipated release: Lou Gramm is unveiling his first new album in 17 years. Titled “Released,” the album is scheduled to debut on March 20, 2026. This marks his first original full-length release since 2009’s self-titled album by The Lou Gramm Band.
Collaboration and Song Development
Gramm has collaborated with longtime friend Bruce Turgon, a former bassist for Foreigner and a member of Gramm’s solo bands. The upcoming album features a mix of new songs and previously unfinished tracks, some of which date back to the 1980s and were initially intended for solo albums or his side project, Shadow King.
- Working on material for over two years
- Incorporates both new and polished older songs
“I’ve been digging through my backlog of great songs that were unfinished,” Gramm explained. “They’re awesome songs that now deserve to be on this album.” He expressed excitement, stating, “It rocks hard, boy,” emphasizing the album’s energetic sound.
Recording Details
The album was recorded with Gramm’s current solo group, featuring notable musicians:
- Ben Grammatico – Drums
- Jeff Jacobs – Keyboards
- Scott Gilman – Saxophone
- Tony Franklin – Bass
- Gary Hoey – Guitar
A Rich Legacy
Lou Gramm is best known as the original lead singer of Foreigner, a Rock and Roll Hall of Fame inductee celebrated for iconic hits from the 1970s and 1980s, including:
- “I Want to Know What Love Is”
- “Hot Blooded”
- “Feels Like the First Time”
- “Waiting for a Girl Like You”
- “Cold As Ice”
Born in Rochester and residing in Webster, New York, Gramm co-founded Foreigner with guitarist Mick Jones. After departing the band in 1990 and again in 2003, he pursued a solo career, releasing albums such as “Ready or Not” and “Long Hard Look.” He has also collaborated with various artists across several projects.
Looking to the Future
At 75, Gramm has made guest appearances with Foreigner, including celebrating the band’s 50th anniversary. He recently indicated plans to retire after the album release, wishing to spend more time with family and other personal interests. “I feel like there are things I want to do outside of music,” he noted.
Fans can preorder “Released” on vinyl via Amazon, and the first single is expected to drop in early February. With the upcoming album, Lou Gramm continues to solidify his remarkable legacy in the world of rock music.
