Politics
Legendary Rocker Mick Jones Announces He’s Living With Devastating Disease
In a heartfelt announcement on Wednesday, Mick Jones, the iconic guitarist and founding member of the legendary rock band Foreigner, disclosed that he has been quietly battling Parkinson’s disease for several years.
The news came through a personal message shared on the band’s official platform on Instagram. Jones, whose guitar riffs and songwriting prowess propelled Foreigner to global fame in the 1970s and 1980s with hits like “I Want to Know What Love Is” and “Cold as Ice,” explained his noticeable absence from recent live performances.
“For some time now, I have not been performing onstage with the band,” Jones stated, attributing this to his diagnosis and the daily struggles it entails.
Despite the devastating news, Jones’s spirit remains unbroken. He reassured fans, “I want everyone to know that I am doing alright,” albeit acknowledging the difficulties Parkinson’s disease has posed to his ability to perform at the level he demands of himself.
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This has not, however, deterred him from staying actively involved with Foreigner. “I am still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence,” he affirmed.
Parkinson’s disease, a neurodegenerative disorder known for its impact on movement and coordination, presents daily challenges, yet Jones’s message was one of perseverance and gratitude. He reflected on his illustrious career in music with a sense of pride and thanked fans for their undying support over the years. “The important thing is to persevere and remind myself of the wonderful career I’ve had in music,” he shared.
Jones’s openness about his condition sparked an outpouring of support from the music community and fans worldwide. He noted, “I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, but especially so at this point in my life.”
Jones founded Foreigner in 1976 along with Ian McDonald and Lou Gramm. The band quickly rose to fame with their self-titled debut album in 1977. Throughout the late 1970s and 1980s, Foreigner dominated the charts with numerous hit singles and albums.
Jones played a key role in crafting the band’s sound, blending elements of rock, pop, and blues to create a distinctive style. Albums like “Double Vision” (1978), “Head Games” (1979), and “4” (1981) solidified Foreigner’s status as one of the biggest bands of the era.
He was not only the lead guitarist but also a primary songwriter and producer for Foreigner. His songwriting collaborations with Lou Gramm produced many of the band’s most memorable hits, including “Hot Blooded,” “Urgent,” and “I Want to Know What Love Is.”
While Jones remained a constant member of Foreigner, the band saw several lineup changes over the years. Lou Gramm departed in the late 1980s but later returned for various reunions. Despite the changes, he remained the driving force behind the band’s music and continued to lead Foreigner through different incarnations.
Jones’s contributions to rock music through Foreigner are significant. The band’s catchy melodies, powerful riffs, and memorable hooks continue to resonate with audiences worldwide. Foreigner’s songs are frequently heard on classic rock radio stations and have been featured in numerous films and television shows.
As Foreigner continues to tour and bring their classic hits to new and old fans alike, Mick Jones’s legacy as a musician and fighter remains as influential as ever.
