The French Inhaler

Album: Warren Zevon (1976)
Play Video

Songfacts®:

  • The caustic lyrics were inspired by Zevon's breakup with his long-term girlfriend and mother of his son Jordan, Marilyn Livingston. Jordan Zevon told The Guardian in 2013 that despite his mom being aware that she was the target of the song, she still found it irresistible. "Despite the subject matter, my mom would play that song to me after a couple of glasses of wine and laugh and say: 'Isn't that brilliant?'" he recalled. "She knew he was a genius."
  • This is one of many Warren Zevon songs that look at life in Los Angeles, where many aspiring stars get a harsh lesson in reality. "It helped forge my richly deserved if long-forgotten reputation as the foremost chronicler of Hollywood life in the '70s," Zevon said.
  • The soaring harmony vocals were provided by Don Henley and Glenn Frey of The Eagles. The album was produced by Jackson Browne, who could call in a favor from these guys anytime. Browne supplied the Eagles with their first hit: "Take It Easy."

Comments

Be the first to comment...

Editor's Picks

James Bond Theme Songs

James Bond Theme SongsMusic Quiz

How well do you know the 007 theme songs?

Andy McClusky of OMD

Andy McClusky of OMDSongwriter Interviews

Known in America for the hit "If You Leave," OMD is a huge influence on modern electronic music.

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"

Narada Michael Walden - "Freeway of Love"They're Playing My Song

As a songwriter and producer, Narada had hits with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Starship. But what song does he feel had the greatest impact on his career?

Gary Brooker of Procol Harum

Gary Brooker of Procol HarumSongwriter Interviews

The lead singer and pianist for Procol Harum, Gary talks about finding the musical ideas to match the words.

Goodbye, Hello: Ten Farewell Tour Fake-Outs

Goodbye, Hello: Ten Farewell Tour Fake-OutsSong Writing

The 10 biggest "retirement tours" that didn't take.

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & Tears

David Clayton-Thomas of Blood, Sweat & TearsSongwriter Interviews

The longtime BS&T frontman tells the "Spinning Wheel" story, including the line he got from Joni Mitchell.