Werewolves of London is a classic rock song that has been covered by many musicians over the years. The song was released in 1978 and became one of Warren Zevon’s most popular tracks. However, there has been some debate about whether or not Zevon actually wrote the song.
The Evidence
The evidence for whether or not Warren Zevon wrote Werewolves of London is somewhat murky. The song’s lyrics were co-written by two other musicians, LeRoy Marinell and Waddy Wachtel. Some sources claim that Marinell and Wachtel wrote the song and then brought it to Zevon to finish.
However, in an interview with Rolling Stone magazine, Zevon claimed that he had written the song’s distinctive riff while he was staying at a house in England. He said that he had been watching a movie called The Hounds of Zaroff and was inspired by the howling sound effects used in the film.
Regardless of who actually wrote the song’s music, it is clear that Warren Zevon played a significant role in its creation. He is credited as the primary songwriter on all official releases of the track.
The Legacy
Despite the controversy surrounding its creation, Werewolves of London has become an iconic rock song that continues to be played on classic rock radio stations around the world. Its catchy melody and memorable lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of 70s-era rock music.
In addition to its popularity with fans, Werewolves of London has also been recognized by other musicians for its influence on the genre. In 2004, Rolling Stone magazine included it on their list of “The 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.”
- Werewolves of London was covered by Kid Rock for his 2000 album “The History Of Rock”.
- The Grateful Dead performed the song live on several occasions during their 1980 tour.
- Adam Sandler’s character in the movie “The Wedding Singer” performs a version of the song at a wedding reception.
Conclusion
So, did Warren Zevon write Werewolves of London? While there is some debate about who came up with the song’s music, it is clear that Zevon played a significant role in its creation. His contribution to the track’s lyrics and overall sound have made it an enduring classic of rock music.
In the end, the controversy over who wrote Werewolves of London doesn’t really matter. What matters is that it remains a beloved and influential track that continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.