The song “Werewolves of London” is a classic rock hit that has been enjoyed by music lovers for decades. It was written and performed by Warren Zevon, and was released in 1978 as part of his album “Excitable Boy”.
The song has a catchy tune and memorable lyrics, but have you ever wondered about the meaning behind it? In this article, we will explore the fascinating story behind this popular song.
Origins of the Song
Warren Zevon was known for his unique style of music that often incorporated humor and satire. According to the songwriter himself, the idea for “Werewolves of London” came to him while he was in a Cuban restaurant in Los Angeles.
He saw a woman who looked like a society lady with hair piled high on her head. However, she had a little too much to drink, and her hair fell down around her face. This inspired the opening lines of the song:
“I saw a werewolf with a Chinese menu in his hand,
Walking through the streets of Soho in the rain.”
The Meaning Behind the Lyrics
The rest of the lyrics follow suit, describing various sightings of werewolves throughout London. The chorus repeats:
“Ah-hoo! Werewolves of London!
Ah-hoo! “
At first glance, it may seem like there is no deeper meaning to this song other than just being a fun rock tune about werewolves. However, upon closer inspection, there are some interesting interpretations.
Some people believe that the song is actually about Warren Zevon’s experiences with cocaine addiction. The line “Little old lady got mutilated late last night” could be an allusion to drug abuse and its destructive effects on one’s health.
Others speculate that “Werewolves of London” is actually about social class differences in London. The Chinese menu in the werewolf’s hand could be a nod to the working-class immigrants who ran Chinese takeaway restaurants in London’s Soho district.
Legacy of the Song
Regardless of its true meaning, “Werewolves of London” has become a cultural icon and has been covered by numerous other artists over the years. It has been featured in many movies and TV shows, including “The Color of Money” and “The Simpsons”. The song’s memorable chorus continues to be a crowd-pleaser at parties and concerts.
In conclusion, while the true meaning behind “Werewolves of London” may never be fully revealed, it remains a popular rock classic that continues to captivate audiences. Its catchy tune and entertaining lyrics make it a timeless hit that will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
Sources:
- https://www.songfacts.com/facts/warren-zevon/werewolves-of-london
- https://www.npr.org/2018/06/25/623709712/werewolves-in-london-warren-zevons-filmic-songwriting
- https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-news/how-warren-zevons-werewolves-of-london-became-a-halloween-standard-196461/