For Foreigner keyboardist Michael Bluestein, the work of the band – a group that has remained relevant from the 1970s until now – survives because of its music.
“This is music that continues to resonate with people,” he explained. “It’s become part of the fabric of the American experience.”
Foreigner will play at the Walworth County Fair Sunday, Sept. 4, at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are available at walworthcountyfairgrounds.com.
Foreigner is known for its classic rock hits, with the song “I Wanna Know What Love Is” topping the U.S. singles charts and other songs like “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Double Vision” and “Hot Blooded” all in the top three.
“Certain bands seem to have this appeal,” said Bluestein, who’s been with the group since 2008. “I think well-crafted songs seem to stand the test of time. There’s a reason they get a lot of play.”
And they are the reason the band still tours. As Bluestein said, “the demand is there.”
The group is also dedicated to seeing music programs flourish in schools. As part of the group’s movement to raise money and awareness for music in schools, the Elkhorn High School choir will open for Foreigner at the fair (see related story).
“It’s basically part of a campaign we’re part of,” Bluestein said. “It’s just something we’re passionate about preserving.
“Music programs are often the first thing to be cut (with budget cuts),” he added.
Bluestein said that music has been a huge part of his life for a long time. Touring has its ups and downs, he said – ups being performing with the well-known group and sharing camaraderie on the road, downs being “always moving” and time away from family – but it’s part of his character.
“From my own experience, music for me has been everything,” he said. “It’s given me a career, it’s given me something I can dedicate my life to. It’s something I love doing and am fortunate enough to make a living at.”
