We Are ALL Putting the Wrong Warren Zevon Song on Our Halloween Playlists

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It’s not hard to see why “Werewolves of London” became a classic at Halloween parties. For starters, the title itself includes the word “werewolves.” The lyrics also describe a gruesome scene – a “little old lady” being attacked and a creature who will “rip your lungs out.” But most importantly-and this can’t be overstated-the song is fantastic. The late Warren Zevon was a brilliant artist. Interestingly, despite initially thinking of it as a novelty song, this was (surprisingly!) his only song to reach the top 40. You can’t go wrong playing “Werewolves of London” any time, for any reason. It’s been making Halloween parties more fun for over four decades.

The problem with considering it his ultimate Halloween song is that, even though the title and visuals suggest something frightening, it’s not about a terrifying monster attacking people. Instead, it’s a humorous song about a charming and stylish man who attracts wealthy older women in London. It describes a fellow in a three-piece suit who enjoys Chinese food and piña coladas.

I’m not saying that guy sounds good. I definitely wouldn’t want to be cornered in a conversation with him at a party. However, he’s not some terrifying monster that requires extreme measures to overcome. He’s more of a recluse than a werewolf. Simply pointing out that you own the same shoes, and got them from Payless, would really bother him.

But let’s talk about a truly fitting Halloween villain. How about a dangerous person with no conscience who exhumes the remains of someone they sexually assaulted and murdered during prom night, just to construct a cage from the bones? That’s the kind of terrifying character who embodies the spirit of October. And that’s exactly the monster Warren Zevon describes in his song, “Excitable Boy.”

However, that’s not the sole reason why “Excitable Boy” is a stronger choice for your Halloween playlist. It’s also a more effective party track because its beat is easier to dance to than “Werewolves of London.” While I enjoy listening to the story of that charming rogue, it’s more of a song to nod along to in the car. “Excitable Boy,” on the other hand, is much more likely to get people up and dancing.

You really can’t choose a wrong option – both songs are great any time, not just on Halloween. “Werewolves of London” and “Excitable Boy” both appeared on the same fantastic album from 1978. And both are perfect examples of Warren Zevon’s style. They’re funny but also have a darker side, with memorable melodies and lovely harmonies. Despite seeming lighthearted, they’re actually very clever and insightful.

We’re focusing on a Halloween playlist right now. If you could only choose one song for a party, “Excitable Boy,” which is also the album’s name, would be the stronger option.

Of course, why choose? I didn’t mean for you to actually make a decision. I just wanted a reason to talk about Warren Zevon and encourage more people to listen to his music. What I’d really like is for you to include both of these songs on your party playlist. And you absolutely can! It’s your playlist, so there are no restrictions. Feel free to add any song you like.

Since you’re able to do that, may we suggest another song? It’s a fantastic tune about a headless assassin traveling the world, seeking revenge on the person who wronged him. It’s a personal favorite of mine and truly incredible. If you’re not familiar with it, it’s called “Roland the Headless Thompson Gunner” by Warren Zevon. It’s absolutely amazing!

Yep, that’s right. It seems you’ve finally understood! I absolutely don’t mind if you keep playing “Werewolves of London” at your Halloween party. This was all just a playful ruse, and the reward is getting you to add three Warren Zevon songs to your Halloween playlist.

Don’t forget to include Warren Zevon in your Halloween festivities! Instead of just featuring him alongside London’s werewolves, be sure he also comes with energetic boys and headless assassins, too. It’s time to expand his spooky crew!

Mikey Walsh writes for TopMob and is a big fan of Warren Zevon. You can find him on Bluesky at @burgermike. He’s also likely participating in any discussions about ranking the Targaryen kings.

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2025-10-03 18:33