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In this episode of American Song, we explore the life and legacy of Warren Zevon, one of America’s most fearless and darkly funny songwriters. Known for his biting wit and uncompromising honesty, Zevon built a career chronicling the messier sides of the human experience—addiction, regret, heartbreak, and mortality.

From his early days as a struggling songwriter in Los Angeles to the unexpected success of “Werewolves of London,” Zevon never stopped grappling with the contradictions of fame and self-destruction. We trace how his battles with alcoholism nearly cost him everything, and how sobriety led to some of his most poignant work, including “Detox Mansion” and “Reconsider Me.”

When faced with a terminal cancer diagnosis, Zevon responded the only way he knew how: with humor and unflinching clarity. His final message—“Enjoy every sandwich”—has become a lasting reminder to savor the ordinary moments, even when life feels overwhelming.

Drawing parallels between Zevon’s story and today’s America, we consider what his example has to offer in an era of division, anxiety, and distrust. In a time when many feel adrift, Zevon’s insistence on telling the truth—even when it was uncomfortable—feels more important than ever. His songs are proof that honesty and irony can coexist with tenderness and hope.

Through archival interviews, cultural commentary, and the music itself, this episode reflects on what it means to face your demons, make peace with impermanence, and still find something worth laughing about. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just discovering his work, this is an invitation to see Warren Zevon not just as a songwriter, but as a guide to living—and dying—with your eyes wide open.

Warren Zevon's Songs In This Episode

• Desperadoes Under the Eaves
• Veracruz
• I'm Your Mutineer (Bob Dylan)
• French Inhaler
• Outside Chance (The Turtles)
• Follow Me (Lyme & Cybelle)
• Poor, Poor Pitiful Me
• Tenderness on the Block
• Werewolves of London
• Lawyers, Guns & Money
• Detox Mansion
• Sentimental Hygiene
• Raspberry Beret (Prince Cover)
• Run Straight Down
• Splendid Isolation
• I Was in the House Til the House Burned Down
• For My Next Trick, I'll Need a Volunteer
• Disorder in the House
• Keep Me in Your Heart For A While
• Mutineer
• Keep Me in Your Hear For A While (Eddie Vedder)
• Looking For the Next Best Thing

Archival Interviews

• Crystal Zevon
• Waddy Wachtel
• Jason Zevon
• Warren Zevon
• David Letterman

Related Episodes - Dig Deeper!

The Singer-Songwriters: Truth to Power/ Bruce Cockburn

God's Song and Other American Prayers: The Story of Randy Newman

The Singer-Songwriters: Part One/ Bob Dylan

The Masters of Funk

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