After many years of eligibility, Foreigner is finally getting into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year, and original frontman Lou Gramm is certainly grateful for the honor.

“It gives the ultimate credibility to all the creativity and work that myself and Mick (Jones) and the whole Foreigner band has been doing for decades,” Gramm tells Rolling Stone, noting when he heard the news from Foreigner’s manager, “I was stunned. I couldn’t believe it. It’s been such a long time coming.”

Gramm says he wishes he knew why it took so long for the band to be recognized, noting, “I think I have an idea, but it’s not even worth talking about. I’m just so happy we’re part of it now.”

I totally agree with Lou’s thoughts. I think sometimes Foreigner is underrated in the world of rock and roll. So many fantastic hits crossing the span between hard rock like “Jukebox Hero” and ballads like “I want to know what love is.”

16 top 40 hits. 6 studio albums that went Platinum. What else do they have to prove?

Congratulations to Foreigner. You deserve it!