The lead singer of the renowned classic rock band Foreigner, Kelly Hansen, performed his final show on October 19, 2024, at the Hard Rock Live at Etess Arena in Atlantic City, New Jersey. After nearly two decades with the band, Hansen’s departure marks the end of an era for both him and the group. Multi-instrumentalist Luis Maldonado, who joined Foreigner in 2021, will take over as the lead vocalist.
During the farewell performance, Hansen was celebrated for his contributions to the band, which has been a staple of rock music since the late 1970s. Jeff Pilson, the band’s bassist and musical director, expressed heartfelt sentiments about Hansen’s impact on the band. “This is a big night for us, and in many ways it’s very special for me personally because I’ve been with this guy for 20 years,” Pilson stated, as reported by Blabbermouth. He emphasized the familial bond within the band, acknowledging the presence of original members like Lou Gramm and Al Greenwood who often join the current lineup.
Hansen, 64, addressed the audience with an emotional farewell, thanking fellow band members, management, and the touring crew. He expressed deep appreciation for the fans, whom he prefers to refer to as “people who love music.” He recounted the countless experiences he shared with concert-goers over the years. “My whole life, since I was 17, it’s been great people who come to shows. Thank you for that,” he said.
In his remarks, Hansen also acknowledged the personal milestones he has achieved, including marrying for the first time at 59. “I have many friends who have traveled a long way to be here tonight, and I wanna say thank you to all of them, because when it comes down to it, it’s friends and family — it’s friends and family, really,” he added, highlighting the importance of personal connections in his life and career.
Hansen announced his decision to leave Foreigner in May 2024 after leading the band since 2005. He reflected on his extensive career in music, stating, “I’ve been in this business, I think, about 48, 49 years. I put in my time. I spent 20 years with this fantastic band singing a catalog of songs that a singer couldn’t dream of.”
His thoughts about retirement began during the Covid pandemic, a period in which he spent more than a year at home and reassessed his life. While he confirmed his desire to explore other passions and spend time with loved ones, he noted, “I’m trying not to use the word retirement. I don’t even know what that means. I’m not looking for future work. I’m so fortunate to be able to make that choice.”
Foreigner is celebrated for their classic hits from the 1970s and 1980s, including “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Hot Blooded,” and “Waiting for a Girl Like You.” While Hansen steps down, original lead singer Lou Gramm is expected to make appearances at select concerts, although he plans to retire in 2026. The only original member still actively involved with the band is guitarist Mick Jones, who no longer performs due to health issues related to Parkinson’s disease.
As Foreigner moves forward with Luis Maldonado at the helm, the band looks to continue its legacy in rock music, honoring its past while embracing new beginnings.
