Warren Zevon (1947–2003) was an American rock singer-songwriter known for his sharp wit, dark humor, literary lyrics, and distinctive blend of rock, folk, and blues. Though best remembered for the hit song Werewolves of London, his career produced a remarkable catalogue of intelligent and emotionally powerful music that earned him a devoted cult following.
Early Life
Warren William Zevon was born on January 24, 1947, in Chicago, Illinois, and grew up in California. His father was a professional boxer and gambler with ties to organized crime, while his mother encouraged his musical interests.
As a teenager, Zevon studied classical piano and was strongly influenced by composer Igor Stravinsky. He left school early and pursued music full time, eventually working as a session musician and songwriter in Los Angeles.
Early Career
In the late 1960s and early 1970s, Zevon struggled to establish himself commercially. He worked with folk duo Turtles associates and briefly toured with The Everly Brothers as a musical coordinator and keyboard player.
His first album, Wanted Dead or Alive, was released in 1970 but received little attention.
Breakthrough
Zevon’s career changed after encouragement from Jackson Browne, who helped produce Zevon’s self-titled 1976 album.
The album included future classics such as:
Poor Poor Pitiful Me
Hasten Down the Wind
Desperados Under the Eaves
Critics praised Zevon’s storytelling, cynical humor, and vivid characters.
Werewolves of London
In 1978, Zevon achieved mainstream success with the album Excitable Boy.
Its biggest hit, Werewolves of London, became a rock-radio staple with its famous piano riff and humorous lyrics.
The album also featured darker songs including:
Lawyers, Guns and Money
Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner
These songs showcased his fascination with flawed antiheroes, crime, politics, and black comedy.
Musical Style
Zevon’s music mixed:
Rock and roll
Folk
Country
Blues
Literary storytelling
His lyrics often balanced humor and tragedy, with themes involving:
Isolation
Addiction
Violence
Mortality
Human weakness
He was admired by fellow musicians including:
Bruce Springsteen
Bob Dylan
Tom Petty
R.E.M.
Later Years
Although Zevon never again achieved major commercial success, he continued making critically respected albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, including:
Sentimental Hygiene
Life’ll Kill Ya
The Wind
He became known for memorable appearances on Late Show with David Letterman, where Letterman was one of his biggest supporters.
Final Album and Death
In 2002, Zevon was diagnosed with terminal mesothelioma, a rare cancer often linked to asbestos exposure. Knowing he had limited time left, he recorded his final album, The Wind, with guest appearances by many famous friends and admirers.
The album won two Grammy Awards after his death.
Warren Zevon died on September 7, 2003, at age 56.
Legacy
Zevon is remembered as one of rock music’s greatest songwriters — a brilliant observer of humanity whose songs combined intelligence, humor, and emotional honesty.
His work continues to attract devoted listeners who appreciate his unique ability to make songs both funny and heartbreaking.
Famous Quote
During his final appearance with David Letterman, Zevon offered this advice when asked what he had learned about life and death:
“Enjoy every sandwich.” — Warren Zevon