Interview by Paul Salfen
The legendary rock band FOREIGNER is making waves with their heartfelt tribute to Latin fans through the release of “Quiero Saber Si Es Amor,” a Spanish-language reimagining of their iconic chart-topping hit, “I Want To Know What Love Is.” Set for release on May 15, 2025, via Rhino, this emotional duet features FOREIGNER’s guitarist and vocalist Luis Maldonado alongside acclaimed Mexican singer-songwriter Joy Huerta of the GRAMMY-winning duo Jesse & Joy. The single will be available in two versions—one entirely in Spanish and a bilingual Spanish-English edition—marking FOREIGNER’s first official venture into Spanish-language recordings.
In a recent conversation with AMFM Magazine host Paul Salfen, Maldonado shared the organic journey behind this groundbreaking release, which coincides with the band’s 2025 South American tour, including stops in Mexico, Colombia, Chile, Argentina, Brazil, and more. The idea for the Spanish adaptation was sparked by the band’s manager, Stuart, who suggested creating a song to celebrate their return to Latin America after many years. “It was a very simple idea,” Maldonado explained. “We had this idea of going to Mexico and South America because the band hadn’t been there in so many years… and I thought, that’d be cool.”
Collaborating with Chilean music producer and Warner Chappell Music songwriter Cris Zalles, the band worked meticulously to ensure the translation captured the essence of the original while resonating with Spanish-speaking audiences. Maldonado, who is bilingual, emphasized the importance of getting it right: “If the translation isn’t right, you lose a lot of context. You lose a lot of nuance… We worked with this really cool guy named Chris Zayas, and after maybe three or four revisions, we got it right.” The result is a powerful rendition that preserves the song’s emotional depth while infusing it with a fresh Latin flair.
The release has already made an impressive impact, climbing to number five on Spotify’s Latin charts—a success Maldonado didn’t anticipate. “I thought it was just going to be, let me do the song, cool, we’ll do the tour… It just keeps going,” he said, reflecting on the organic momentum of the project. Following the success of “Quiero Saber Si Es Amor” and their Spanish version of “Urgent,” the band is already planning to record two more Spanish-language songs this summer, continuing their commitment to connecting with Latin audiences.
Maldonado’s journey with FOREIGNER has been one of unexpected growth. Initially joining as a guitarist, bassist, and background vocalist, he never imagined stepping into the role of lead singer. “I never came into this band thinking that I’m going to someday be the singer,” he admitted. However, his vocal talents shone during events like the “Very Important Beer” (VIB) parties, where he, keyboardist Michael Bluestein, and lead guitarist Bruce Watson performed at local breweries. These events allowed Maldonado to showcase his lead vocals, gradually building confidence in his ability to front the band. His transition was solidified when band founder Mick Jones gave him the ultimate endorsement: “Hey man, you’re the guy if you want to be.”
This serendipitous evolution, which Maldonado describes as “charmed,” has been marked by camaraderie and a deep sense of family within the band. “These guys are my brothers… We all know each other’s kids, we all know each other’s wives,” he shared, highlighting the tight-knit bond that fuels their creativity. The band’s recent tour with original frontman Lou Gramm further reinforced this unity, with Maldonado recalling joyful moments of sharing stories, singing songs, and even bonding over their love for The Twilight Zone.
Looking ahead, FOREIGNER shows no signs of slowing down. With a summer tour underway, a Canadian tour in October where Maldonado will officially take the lead, and anniversary performances planned for their seminal album 4, the band is riding a wave of inspiration. Discussions of FOREIGNER with an orchestra and more Spanish-language recordings are also in the works, promising exciting developments for fans.
For aspiring musicians, Maldonado’s advice is clear: commitment and passion are key. “If you want something bad enough, the whole world can’t stop you,” he told Salfen. “You have to commit to something that you absolutely love… that you must do.” Reflecting on his 30-year career, which includes working with artists like Lisa Marie Presley and performing at the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with Gramm and Slash, Maldonado remains grateful and driven. “Every day I have a disposition to go, thank you and thank you and keep going,” he said.
As FOREIGNER continues to evolve, “Quiero Saber Si Es Amor” stands as a testament to their enduring legacy and their heartfelt connection with fans across the globe. Fans can catch the band’s infectious energy at their upcoming casino show in Oklahoma, where Maldonado promises “a band of brothers up there having a really great time” and delivering emotional, genuine performances.
