The Untold Truth Of Warren Zevon

Publish date: 2024-05-06

Among Warren Zevon's most prominent fans early in his career: Singer-songwriter Jackson Browne, who had carved out a highly successful career as a solo artist (and penned hit tunes for the likes of the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band and the Eagles) by the time Zevon was searching for a new label in the mid-'70s. Zevon's work struck a major chord with Browne, and the two became quick friends — but according to the Guardian's piece, Browne was a bit worried for his new buddy's career prospects. "He was unique," Browne said, "and, for that reason, I thought there was a chance he might not get a record deal."

Indeed, he may not have, as Zevon's only previously released work was his 1969 debut, which wasn't a super-effective showcase for his talents. But Browne personally implored the head of his own label, David Geffen, to sign Zevon, and even produced his self-titled sophomore album and his next — 1978's "Excitable Boy," which is as close to a masterpiece as anything the late '70s had to offer. The full range of Zevon's artistry, from wistful sentimentality ("Johnny Strikes Up the Band") to heartfelt balladry ("Accidentally Like a Martyr," the Browne-penned "Tenderness on the Block") to bizarre dark humor ("Werewolves of London" and the jaw-dropping title track) were on display here, and also included was the tune which would go on to become his signature — a hard-boiled, horror-tinged, subtly hilarious tune about a headless man and his gun.

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