Throughout history, tales of werewolves have captivated the imagination of people across the world. From folklore to literature to cinema, the concept of the werewolf has been explored in countless ways, with many artists using the creature as a metaphor for the human experience. In music, the werewolf has been a particularly popular subject, inspiring a wide range of songs across various genres. This list of the top 20 songs about werewolves offers a glimpse into the diverse and creative ways that musicians have approached the theme of lycanthropy. From classic rock to folk to indie, the songs on this list represent a broad cross-section of musical styles and sensibilities. Each song offers a unique perspective on the werewolf mythos, using the creature as a symbol for everything from primal desire to societal oppression. While some of these songs are straightforward odes to the werewolf legend, others use the concept as a jumping-off point for more introspective and philosophical explorations. Whether they are celebrating the wildness of the wolf or lamenting the human condition, these songs all share a deep respect and fascination for the power and mystery of the werewolf. By delving into the rich and varied world of werewolf-inspired music, this list offers a fascinating glimpse into the many ways that humans have sought to understand and connect with the animal within.
1. “Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran
“Hungry Like the Wolf” by Duran Duran is a classic New Romantic hit from the early 80s. With its driving beat and memorable synth hooks, the song quickly became a staple of 80s pop music. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who is consumed by their desire for a mysterious woman, depicted as a wild animal in the jungle. The narrator’s insatiable hunger for this woman is framed as a primal, animalistic urge that is beyond his control. The song’s upbeat and energetic sound is matched by its playful and tongue-in-cheek lyrics, making it a fun and upbeat anthem about desire and lust. Duran Duran’s unique blend of pop, rock, and electronic music helped to define the sound of the 80s, and “Hungry Like the Wolf” remains one of their most iconic and enduring hits. Overall, “Hungry Like the Wolf” is a classic 80s pop anthem that captures the excitement and energy of the decade.
2. “Wolf” by Iced Earth
“Wolf” by Iced Earth is a heavy metal track that explores themes of power, strength, and freedom. With its aggressive instrumentation and powerful vocals, the song creates a dark and intense atmosphere. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who identifies as a wolf, living in the wild and hunting for survival. The wolf symbolizes the narrator’s unbreakable spirit and fierce independence, and the song encourages listeners to embrace their inner strength and power. The fast-paced guitar riffs and driving drum beats create a high-energy soundscape, and the vocal delivery is powerful and impassioned. The song is a standout track in Iced Earth’s discography and is sure to appeal to fans of heavy metal and hard rock. Overall, “Wolf” is a high-energy metal anthem that celebrates the power and freedom of the wild and untamed spirit.
3. “Wolves” by Langhorne Slim
“Wolves” by Langhorne Slim is a folk-infused rock track that explores themes of loneliness and isolation. With its acoustic guitar-driven sound and emotive lyrics, the song creates a sense of introspection and introspection. The lyrics tell the story of a narrator who feels like a wolf in the night, wandering the streets and feeling lost. The wolf symbolizes the narrator’s feelings of isolation and loneliness, and the song reflects on the human condition and the struggle to find one’s place in the world. Langhorne Slim’s unique blend of folk, rock, and blues music is on full display in “Wolves,” and the song is a standout track in his discography. The song’s heartfelt lyrics and soulful delivery are sure to resonate with listeners, and its stripped-down instrumentation allows the emotional core of the song to shine through. Overall, “Wolves” is a powerful and introspective track that explores the universal themes of loneliness and isolation.
4. “Of Wolf And Man” by Metallica
“Of Wolf and Man” by Metallica is a heavy metal track that explores the connection between man and beast. With its driving guitar riffs and aggressive percussion, the song creates a powerful and intense atmosphere. The lyrics draw upon the idea of the werewolf, a mythical creature that is both human and wolf, and explore the duality of the human condition. The narrator compares the werewolf to the duality of the human psyche, with its animalistic and savage side and its more rational and civil side. The song’s fast-paced instrumentation and powerful vocal delivery make it a standout track in Metallica’s discography, and its exploration of the duality of the human condition is sure to resonate with fans of heavy metal and hard rock. Overall, “Of Wolf and Man” is a high-energy and thought-provoking track that explores the timeless themes of human nature and the struggle to balance our primal and civil sides.
5. “The Werewolf” by Paul Simon
“The Werewolf” by Paul Simon is a folksy, acoustic-driven track that explores themes of transformation and the duality of human nature. The song tells the story of a narrator who is visited by the spirit of a werewolf in a dream, and who is given a warning about the dangers of embracing one’s animalistic side. The lyrics are haunting and evocative, and they explore the idea that the werewolf is a symbol of the wild and untamed spirit that exists within all of us. Paul Simon’s distinctive voice and acoustic guitar playing are the centerpiece of the song, and they create a folksy and intimate atmosphere. “The Werewolf” is a standout track in Paul Simon’s extensive discography, and its exploration of the human condition is sure to appeal to fans of folk and acoustic music. Overall, “The Werewolf” is a thought-provoking and introspective track that explores the timeless themes of transformation and the duality of human nature.
6. “Bark At The Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne
“Bark at the Moon” by Ozzy Osbourne is a classic heavy metal track that explores themes of transformation and the duality of human nature. The song tells the story of a werewolf who is torn between his animalistic side and his human side, and who is struggling to control his primal urges. With its powerful guitar riffs and driving drum beats, “Bark at the Moon” creates a high-energy and intense atmosphere. Ozzy Osbourne’s distinctive vocal delivery is the centerpiece of the song, and he brings a raw, emotional intensity to the lyrics. The song’s exploration of the human condition is sure to resonate with fans of heavy metal and hard rock, and its powerful instrumentation and vocal delivery make it a standout track in Ozzy Osbourne’s discography. Overall, “Bark at the Moon” is a thought-provoking and high-energy track that explores the timeless themes of transformation and the duality of human nature.
7. “Howlin’ for You” by The Black Keys
“Howlin’ for You” by The Black Keys is a blues-rock track that explores themes of love and desire. The song tells the story of a narrator who is “howlin’ for you”, and who is willing to do anything to be with the person he loves. With its catchy guitar riffs and driving beat, “Howlin’ for You” creates a high-energy and upbeat atmosphere. The Black Keys’ signature sound, which blends classic blues with modern rock, is the centerpiece of the song, and it creates a raw, authentic vibe that is sure to appeal to fans of blues and rock music. The song’s upbeat and energetic tone, combined with its catchy chorus, make it a standout track in The Black Keys’ discography, and its exploration of love and desire is sure to resonate with listeners of all ages. Overall, “Howlin’ for You” is a fun and upbeat track that explores the timeless theme of love and desire, and its high-energy sound is sure to get your foot tapping and your heart racing.
8. “Wolf Moon” by Type O Negative
“Wolf Moon” by Type O Negative is a gothic metal track that explores themes of transformation and the supernatural. The song tells the story of a werewolf who is struggling to control his primal urges, and who is torn between his human and animalistic sides. With its heavy guitar riffs and haunting keyboard melodies, “Wolf Moon” creates a dark and eerie atmosphere that is sure to appeal to fans of gothic and metal music. Type O Negative’s signature sound, which blends heavy metal with gothic and industrial influences, is the centerpiece of the song, and it creates a unique and haunting vibe that sets it apart from other tracks in the genre. The song’s exploration of the werewolf mythos is sure to resonate with fans of the supernatural, and its heavy, intense sound is sure to get your heart racing. Overall, “Wolf Moon” is a thought-provoking and haunting track that explores the timeless themes of transformation and the supernatural, and its heavy and intense sound is sure to appeal to fans of gothic and metal music.
9. “Werewolf, Baby!” by Rob Zombie
“Werewolf, Baby!” by Rob Zombie is a high-energy, hard-rocking track that combines horror movie themes with heavy metal influences. The song features pounding drums, screeching guitars, and Zombie’s distinctive vocals, which alternate between growls and screams. The lyrics describe a wild, dangerous creature that stalks its prey under the light of the full moon. With its aggressive sound and macabre lyrics, “Werewolf, Baby!” is a thrilling ride that showcases Zombie’s unique style and penchant for all things dark and spooky. It’s a song that will get your heart pumping and leave you wanting more, especially if you’re a fan of horror and heavy metal.
10. “Witch Wolf” by Styx
“Witch Wolf” by Styx is a classic rock song that draws on mystical and supernatural themes. The song features an upbeat tempo, catchy guitar riffs, and smooth vocal harmonies, characteristic of Styx’s signature sound. The lyrics tell the story of a seductive witch who transforms into a wolf at night and lures her unsuspecting victims into the woods. The song’s catchy chorus and sing-along quality make it a favorite among fans, while the eerie subject matter adds an element of intrigue and mystery. Overall, “Witch Wolf” is a fun and catchy rock song that blends elements of fantasy and horror to create a unique and memorable listening experience.
11. “Werewolves Of London” by Warren Zevon
“Werewolves of London” by Warren Zevon is a classic rock song that has become an enduring favorite. The song features a catchy piano riff, a bouncy rhythm, and Zevon’s distinctive vocals, which deliver the humorous lyrics with just the right touch of sarcasm. The song describes a fanciful encounter with werewolves in London’s streets, complete with colorful characters and witty references. With its upbeat tempo and sing-along chorus, “Werewolves of London” is a fun and lighthearted song that has stood the test of time. It’s a testament to Zevon’s unique style and ability to blend humor and rock in a way that has captivated listeners for generations.
12. “Running with the Pack” by Bad Company
“Running with the Pack” by Bad Company is a classic rock anthem that features driving guitars, pounding drums, and Paul Rodgers’ soulful vocals. The song is an ode to the freedom and thrill of running wild with a pack of friends, with lyrics that evoke a sense of adventure and camaraderie. The song’s powerful chorus and catchy melody make it an enduring favorite, and it has become a staple of classic rock radio. With its dynamic energy and memorable hook, “Running with the Pack” is a timeless example of the kind of rock and roll that has captured the hearts and imaginations of fans for generations.
13. “Wolf Among Wolves” by Bonnie Prince Billy
“Wolf Among Wolves” by Bonnie Prince Billy is a haunting and introspective folk song that showcases the artist’s poetic lyricism and evocative vocals. The song is a meditation on the nature of the human condition, using the metaphor of a wolf among wolves to explore the themes of survival, identity, and belonging. The sparse instrumentation and atmospheric production lend an air of mystery and melancholy to the song, while Billy’s raw and emotional delivery adds to its impact. “Wolf Among Wolves” is a beautifully crafted and deeply affecting song that offers a unique and insightful perspective on the human experience.
14. “Dog Bite” by Dead Kennedys
“Dog Bite” by Dead Kennedys is a punk rock song that combines aggressive guitars, driving drums, and Jello Biafra’s confrontational vocals to create a sense of urgency and rebellion. The song is a scathing critique of police brutality and the abuse of power, with lyrics that vividly depict a violent confrontation between an innocent victim and an out-of-control officer. With its intense sound and provocative lyrics, “Dog Bite” is a powerful statement against injustice and oppression, and a call to action for those who seek to challenge the status quo. It’s a song that demands attention and invites listeners to join the fight for change and social justice.
15. “A Wolf at the Door” by Radiohead
“A Wolf at the Door” by Radiohead is a haunting and introspective song that showcases the band’s musical and lyrical prowess. The song features a spare arrangement of piano, drums, and guitar, with Thom Yorke’s distinctive vocals delivering lyrics that explore the themes of fear, paranoia, and isolation. The song’s sparse instrumentation and eerie production create a sense of unease and tension, while Yorke’s haunting delivery adds to its emotional impact. “A Wolf at the Door” is a beautifully crafted and deeply affecting song that offers a unique and insightful perspective on the human experience, with Radiohead’s signature sound and style elevating it to the level of a modern classic.
16. “She Wolf” by Shakira
“She Wolf” by Shakira is a dance-pop song that features a catchy synth riff, pulsing beats, and Shakira’s sultry vocals. The song’s lyrics celebrate female empowerment and sensuality, with Shakira portraying herself as a “she wolf” who is in control of her own destiny and desires. With its infectious rhythm and playful lyrics, “She Wolf” is a fun and upbeat anthem that has become a favorite of fans worldwide. The song’s bold and unapologetic celebration of female sexuality and independence makes it an important cultural statement, and Shakira’s unique voice and style have helped to establish her as a true icon of pop music.
17. “Raised by Wolves” by U2
“Raised by Wolves” by U2 is a high-energy rock song that features driving guitars, propulsive drums, and Bono’s passionate vocals. The song is a visceral exploration of the Troubles in Northern Ireland, using the metaphor of a pack of wolves to convey the sense of danger and violence that permeated the region during that time. With its explosive sound and searing lyrics, “Raised by Wolves” is a powerful statement against the forces of conflict and oppression, and a call to action for those who seek to promote peace and understanding. The song’s urgent and urgent delivery make it an unforgettable moment in U2’s legendary career, and a testament to the band’s enduring relevance and influence.
18. “Werewolf” by Fiona Apple
“Werewolf” by Fiona Apple is a haunting and introspective song that showcases the artist’s unique voice and poetic lyricism. The song features a sparse arrangement of piano and percussion, with Apple’s expressive vocals delivering lyrics that explore the themes of love, regret, and self-doubt. The song’s spare instrumentation and atmospheric production lend an air of intimacy and vulnerability to the song, while Apple’s raw and emotional delivery adds to its impact. “Werewolf” is a beautifully crafted and deeply affecting song that offers a unique and insightful perspective on the complexities of human relationships, with Apple’s signature style and sensibility making it a standout track in her distinguished catalog.
19. “Brother Wolf, Sister Moon” by The Cult
“Brother Wolf, Sister Moon” by The Cult is a moody and atmospheric song that features a hypnotic bassline, atmospheric guitars, and Ian Astbury’s evocative vocals. The song draws inspiration from the teachings of St. Francis of Assisi, using the imagery of the wolf and the moon to explore themes of spirituality, nature, and the human experience. With its lush sound and poetic lyrics, “Brother Wolf, Sister Moon” is a unique and captivating song that offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of religion, nature, and the human spirit. The song’s intricate musical arrangement and Astbury’s powerful delivery make it a standout track in The Cult’s distinguished career, and a testament to their enduring creativity and artistry.
20. “The Wolves” by Bon Iver
“The Wolves” by Bon Iver is a haunting and evocative song that features an ethereal mix of acoustic and electric guitars, layered harmonies, and Justin Vernon’s distinctive vocals. The song’s lyrics explore themes of memory, loss, and regret, with Vernon’s plaintive voice delivering lines that are at once poetic and deeply affecting. With its dreamlike sound and introspective lyrics, “The Wolves” is a powerful and emotional statement that showcases Bon Iver’s unique talent for crafting music that is both experimental and deeply personal. The song’s intricate instrumentation and Vernon’s powerful delivery make it a standout track in the band’s distinguished catalog, and a testament to their enduring influence on contemporary music.
Jared Parker 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.
