Even a Dog Can Shake Hands

Song Meaning

Warren Zevon's "Even a Dog Can Shake Hands" is a sardonic takedown of the Los Angeles music industry, a world where opportunism reigns supreme and genuine connection is a rare commodity. The song’s title, a deceptively simple phrase, becomes a potent metaphor for the transactional nature of relationships in Hollywood. Zevon paints a picture of a scene where everyone is vying for a piece of the pie, driven by self-interest rather than authentic camaraderie. The repeated line, "Everybody's tryna be a friend of mine / Even a dog can shake hands," underscores the superficiality of these connections, suggesting that even the most basic level of interaction is tainted by ulterior motives. The 'dog' is anyone, and everyone, willing to perform a simple trick for a reward. This cynicism permeates the entire song, creating an atmosphere of distrust and disillusionment. The 'woo-woo' sounds peppered throughout add a touch of dark humor, as if Zevon is both mocking and acknowledging the absurdity of it all. The references to Mulholland Drive and Le Dome, iconic LA locales, ground the song in a specific time and place, further emphasizing its critique of the city's entertainment culture. Zevon's lyrics delve into the predatory dynamics that underpin the pursuit of fame and fortune. Lines like "He wants twenty percent because he knew you back when" and "They're all living off the fat of the land" expose the parasitic relationships that thrive in this environment. The chorus, with its directive to "Sign page forty-two, we'll do the rest for you," highlights the exploitative contracts and power imbalances that artists often face. The warning, "Don't lose your head, you'll end up dead / Or you'll be living in the valley some day," serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of succumbing to the allure of the industry. The 'Valley' reference implies a kind of cultural and professional exile. The song suggests that maintaining one's integrity and autonomy is crucial for survival in a world that seeks to commodify and consume talent. Ultimately, "Even a Dog Can Shake Hands" is a biting commentary on the human condition, as seen through the lens of the music business. Zevon's lyrics resonate with anyone who has experienced the feeling of being used or manipulated, or witnessed the corrosive effects of ambition and greed. The song's enduring appeal lies in its unflinching honesty and its ability to capture the dark underbelly of a world that often presents itself as glamorous and aspirational. It's a reminder that in the pursuit of success, it's essential to maintain a sense of self and to be wary of those who offer friendship with strings attached.