Warren Zevon was one of the most talented and enigmatic singer-songwriters of the 1970s and 1980s. Known for his sharp wit, dark humor, and incisive social commentary, Zevon’s music combined elements of rock, folk, and country into a unique and unforgettable sound. With hits like “Werewolves of London” and “Lawyers, Guns and Money,” Zevon became a cult favorite among fans and critics alike, earning a reputation as one of the most important and influential artists of his generation.
In this article, we’ll be taking a closer look at the 10 best Warren Zevon songs of all time. These songs represent the pinnacle of the singer’s discography, showcasing his ability to craft clever and memorable songs that continue to resonate with fans around the world.
From the dark and brooding “Excitable Boy” to the poignant and heartfelt “Keep Me in Your Heart,” the songs on this list are all masterpieces in their own right, each one showcasing Zevon’s unique talent as a songwriter and storyteller. Through his music, Zevon tackled a wide range of issues, from love and loss to addiction and mortality, giving voice to the complexities and contradictions of the human experience.
Whether you’re a die-hard fan of Warren Zevon or a newcomer to his music, this list is sure to offer something for everyone. So sit back, relax, and get ready to dive into the world of one of the most compelling and influential singer-songwriters of the past few decades as we count down the 10 best Warren Zevon songs of all time.
1. Desperadoes Under The Eaves
“Desperados Under the Eaves” is a song by Warren Zevon, released on his 1976 album “Warren Zevon.” The song features a melancholic, piano-driven sound with lyrics that express a sense of loneliness and isolation. The title refers to a group of people who are stuck in a bar, unable to leave because of the rain. The song’s lyrics touch on themes of nostalgia, regret, and the feeling of being lost in a world that is constantly changing. “Desperados Under the Eaves” is a haunting and beautiful song that showcases Zevon’s poetic songwriting and unique voice.
2. Werewolves of London
“Werewolves of London” is a classic rock song by Warren Zevon, released in 1978 on his album “Excitable Boy.” The song features a catchy piano riff and memorable lyrics that paint a vivid picture of a nighttime encounter with a werewolf in London. Zevon’s distinctive voice and irreverent sense of humor shine through in lines like “I saw a werewolf drinking a piña colada at Trader Vic’s, his hair was perfect.” The song has become a staple of classic rock radio and is considered one of Zevon’s signature tunes. Overall, “Werewolves of London” is a fun and catchy song that showcases Zevon’s unique style and wit.
3. Keep Me In Your Heart
“Keep Me In Your Heart” is a song by Warren Zevon, released on his final album “The Wind” in 2003. The song features a simple, acoustic sound with Zevon’s voice taking center stage. The lyrics are deeply emotional and touching, expressing Zevon’s love for his family and friends and his acceptance of his own mortality. The chorus is a poignant plea for those left behind to remember him fondly, with the line “If I leave you, it doesn’t mean I love you any less.” “Keep Me In Your Heart” is a beautiful and moving song that has become a beloved tribute to Zevon since his death in 2003.
4. Poor Poor Pitiful Me
“Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a classic rock song by Warren Zevon, originally released in 1976 on his self-titled album. The song has since been covered by several artists, including Linda Ronstadt, whose version became a hit in 1978. The song features a catchy guitar riff and upbeat melody, but the lyrics tell the story of a woman who is constantly pursued by men and can’t seem to catch a break. Zevon’s clever wordplay and irreverent sense of humor are on full display in lines like “I met a man in Hollywood, I was drinkin’ wine, but he was feelin’ ’bout as faded as my jeans.” Overall, “Poor Poor Pitiful Me” is a classic rock song that combines catchy melodies with clever lyrics and showcases Zevon’s unique talent as a songwriter.
5. Accidentally Like A Martyr
“Accidentally Like a Martyr” is a song by Warren Zevon, released on his 1978 album “Excitable Boy.” The song features a stripped-down, piano-driven sound with Zevon’s voice taking center stage. The lyrics are introspective and melancholic, exploring themes of heartbreak and loss. The title is a play on words, with “martyr” being used in a metaphorical sense to describe the narrator’s feelings of sacrifice and victimization in his failed relationship. “Accidentally Like a Martyr” is a beautiful and powerful song that showcases Zevon’s unique songwriting and vocal abilities. The song remains a favorite among Zevon’s fans and is considered a classic in the singer-songwriter genre.
6. Excitable Boy
“Excitable Boy” is the title track from Warren Zevon’s 1978 album of the same name. The song features a catchy melody and upbeat rhythm, but the lyrics tell the dark story of a troubled young man who commits a series of violent and disturbing acts. Zevon’s lyrics are delivered with a detached, almost clinical tone that makes the song all the more chilling. Despite the disturbing subject matter, “Excitable Boy” is a popular and enduring song that showcases Zevon’s unique talent as a songwriter and his ability to explore difficult and uncomfortable themes in his music.
7. Tenderness On The Block
“Tenderness on the Block” is a song by Warren Zevon, released on his 1980 album “Bad Luck Streak in Dancing School”. The song features a catchy, uptempo sound with a prominent piano riff and Zevon’s distinctive voice. The lyrics are a tribute to the innocence and vulnerability of young love, with Zevon painting a vivid picture of a couple navigating the perils of adolescence. The chorus features the line “Love is simple, it’s the details that get complicated”, encapsulating the essence of the song’s message. “Tenderness on the Block” is a classic Warren Zevon song that continues to resonate with fans of all ages.
8. Jeannie Needs a Shooter
“Jeannie Needs a Shooter” is a bluesy rock song from Warren Zevon’s 1980 album “Bad Luck Streak in Dancing School.” The song features a driving rhythm and evocative lyrics that tell the story of a dangerous woman named Jeannie and the man who is drawn to her despite the risks. The song has a cinematic quality to it, with vivid descriptions of “the desert wind blowing like a lover’s breath” and “the engine roared like a lion.” Zevon’s gravelly voice and guitar playing are on full display in this powerful and evocative song.
9. Nobody’s in Love This Year
“Nobody’s in Love This Year” is a melancholic ballad from Warren Zevon’s 1978 album “Excitable Boy.” The song features a simple piano melody and evocative lyrics that speak to the loneliness and despair that can come with failed relationships. Zevon’s distinctive voice lends a raw emotional power to the lyrics, as he sings lines like “Love’s just something we made up to put our hearts at ease.” The song is a departure from Zevon’s more upbeat and irreverent material, but showcases his ability to write heartfelt and introspective songs that resonate with listeners.
10. Carmelita
“Carmelita” is a song by Warren Zevon, released on his 1976 self-titled album. The song features a simple, acoustic sound with Zevon’s voice conveying a sense of desperation and longing. The lyrics tell the story of a man who is deeply addicted to drugs and unable to escape his destructive lifestyle. The chorus features the line “I’m singing every night in the bars, just getting drunk and shooting out the lights”, which captures the narrator’s sense of hopelessness and despair. “Carmelita” is a powerful and haunting song that showcases Zevon’s ability to tell a deeply emotional story through his music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
