“Werewolves of London” is a quirky rock classic that combines humor, horror, and an unforgettable piano riff.
With its playful lyrics and eerie charm, the song has become a staple among classic rock artists, leaving listeners howling along since its release in 1978.
- Writers: Warren Zevon, LeRoy Marinell, and Waddy Wachtel
- Album: Excitable Boy (1978)
- Producer: Jackson Browne and Waddy Wachtel
📝 Background & Meaning:
“Werewolves of London” was co-written by Warren Zevon, guitarist Waddy Wachtel, and bassist LeRoy Marinell.
It appeared on Zevon’s 1978 album Excitable Boy and became his most commercially successful song, reaching #21 on the Billboard Hot 100.
The song started as a joke during a jam session when Waddy Wachtel played a piano riff, and someone suggested they write a “dance song for werewolves.”
Zevon, known for his dark humor and sharp wit, took the idea and ran with it. The result was a quirky, tongue-in-cheek song about a well-dressed werewolf prowling the streets of London.
“Werewolves of London” is not meant to be taken too seriously—it’s a darkly comedic satire blending elements of horror, humor, and social commentary.
The song portrays werewolves in an unexpectedly lighthearted way, dressing them in tailored suits and dining on Chinese food, while still retaining a sense of eerie mystique.
🎤 Key Themes:
- Dark Humor and Satire: The song juxtaposes the absurd and the sinister, creating a blend of humor and horror.
- Urban Mythology: Zevon creates an urban legend-like atmosphere, painting the werewolf as both predatory and oddly sophisticated.
- Commentary on Society: The werewolf represents a caricature of excess, decadence, and moral ambiguity in 1970s urban life.
- Playful Absurdity: The song thrives on its nonsensical and whimsical lyrics, not aiming for deep meaning but rather entertainment.
🎧 Notable Lyrics:
“I saw a werewolf with a Chinese menu in his hand / Walking through the streets of Soho in the rain.”
- A vividly absurd opening line, setting the quirky and surreal tone of the song.
“He was looking for the place called Lee Ho Fooks / Gonna get a big dish of beef chow mein.”
- The humor continues as the fearsome werewolf is shown indulging in casual urban dining.
“Ah-hooo, werewolves of London / Ah-hooo!”
- The iconic and howling chorus adds to the song’s playful and memorable vibe.
“You better stay away from him / He’ll rip your lungs out, Jim / Huh, I’d like to meet his tailor.”
- This mix of dark threat and sharp wit epitomizes Zevon’s unique songwriting style.
🌍 Cultural Impact:
- “Werewolves of London” became Warren Zevon’s most recognizable song, cementing his place in rock history.
- The signature piano riff, played by John McVie of Fleetwood Mac fame, remains instantly recognizable.
- The song has been featured in numerous movies, TV shows, and commercials, including “The Color of Money” and “Zombieland.”
- Kid Rock famously sampled the song’s riff in his hit “All Summer Long,” blending it with Lynyrd Skynyrd’s “Sweet Home Alabama.”
- It remains a Halloween staple, often played at parties and events due to its spooky theme and sing-along appeal.
🎤 “Werewolves of London” Fun Fact:
- Mick Fleetwood (drums) and John McVie (bass) from Fleetwood Mac played on the track, contributing to its polished yet loose groove.
- Warren Zevon reportedly found the song’s popularity ironic, as it was written somewhat haphazardly and wasn’t intended to be a serious artistic statement.
- The line about Lee Ho Fook’s restaurant refers to a real Chinese restaurant in London, making the surreal imagery even more grounded.
🔑 What It Represents:
“Werewolves of London” isn’t just a novelty song—it’s a testament to Warren Zevon’s sharp wit, dark humor, and storytelling ability.
It represents:
- The blending of horror and humor in rock music.
- A satirical reflection of urban life and decadence in the 1970s.
- Zevon’s unique approach to songwriting, where absurdity and social commentary coexist seamlessly.
- A fun, irreverent classic rock staple that’s as enjoyable today as it was in 1978.
The song is a perfect mix of quirky charm, playful darkness, and infectious musical hooks. It captures a moment of pure musical fun and imaginative storytelling, solidifying its place in rock and pop culture history. 🎶🐺🌙
🎶 Why It Still Resonates Today:
“Werewolves of London” stands out for its unique mix of dark humor and lighthearted absurdity, making it a timeless piece in rock music.
The memorable piano riff and howling chorus create an irresistible combination, while the song’s playful take on horror keeps it fresh and engaging.
Its ability to entertain without taking itself seriously ensures its place among classic rock artists.
Closing Statement:
This song is a shining example of Warren Zevon’s ability to turn a jam session joke into a cultural phenomenon.
With its infectious melody, clever lyrics, and lasting appeal, “Werewolves of London” remains a beloved track that continues to delight fans old and new. 🐺🎶
