The 79-year-old musician, who has not performed with the band since 2022, shared his story on social media.
"Fans will have become very aware that for some time now, I have not been performing onstage with the band,” began Jones. “Several years ago, I was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease. I want everyone to know that I am doing alright. However, I've always liked to be at my best when performing onstage, and sadly, at present, I find that a bit difficult.
“I am still very much involved in the background with Foreigner and remain a presence,” he continued. “Parkinson's is a daily struggle; several of my friends are also dealing with the disease. The important thing is to persevere with the loving support of my family, and remind myself of the wonderful career I've had in music.
"I thank all the fans who have supported Foreigner throughout the years and continue to attend our concerts – I want you to know I appreciate your support; it always means so very much to me, but especially so at this point in my life."
Jones formed Foreigner in New York in 1976 via a series of jams that saw him connect with keyboardist Al Greenwood, multi-instrumentalist Ian McDonald, drummer Dennis Elliott, bassist Ed Gagliardi and – after an extensive search for a singer – Lou Gramm was brought in to front the band.
1977 saw the release of Foreigner’s self-titled debut, which reached No. 4 on the Billboard 200 on its way to US sales of more than 5 million copies thanks to the Top 10 hits “Feels Like The First Time” and “Cold As Ice.”
A series of multi-platinum albums followed, including 1978’s “Double Vision”, 1979’s “Head Games” and 1981’s “4”, helping the group flourish with 16 Top 30 hits while going on to sell more than 75 million albums worldwide.
Gramm exited Foreigner for a solo career in 1990, but returned between 1992 and 2003 before leaving again; singer Kelly Hansen joined the lineup in 2005.
Foreigner were recently named among the nominees under consideration for the 2024 Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame.
Pick up some Foreigner for your collection here.
See also:
Ozzy Osbourne and Foreigner among 2024 Rock Hall nominees
Foreigner and Styx team up for North American tour
Foreigner announces farewell Canadian tour dates
Foreigner announce farewell Las Vegas residency shows
Search Foreigner at hennemusic
