45 years ago, Foreigner surprised the rock world with ‘Urgent’
Released in 1981, Foreigner’s ‘Urgent’ is presented as a surprise for a band better known for hard rock, combining a heavier foundation with a prominent saxophone part and a more polished, radio-friendly sound. The song mattered because it showed the group could broaden its formula successfully, helping to define the sound of their album 4 and reinforcing their commercial standing.
The track was written by guitarist Mick Jones and singer Lou Gramm, with Motown saxophonist Junior Walker contributing its celebrated solo. ‘Urgent’ reached number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 and appeared on Foreigner’s 1981 album 4, which also produced major hits including ‘Juke Box Hero’ and ‘Waiting for a Girl Like You’.
- ‘Urgent’ expanded Foreigner’s sound beyond straightforward hard rock.
- Junior Walker’s saxophone solo became the song’s defining feature.
- The 1981 single reached number four in the United States.