Steely Dan, where to begin with this post?
I guess I could start by saying they have filled a big hole for me musically. Listening and looking for their records over the last few years have really changed the way I listen to music. The way I seek music and ultimately the way I personally enjoy it, so I thank them for that.
Record Expo In Moncton, always looking for the dan gems…
The first record I got by them has been my favorite for some time, and as I got to know the collection more in-depth, it still is my favorite. Royal Scam and Aja are my favorite records. It’s very tough to choose.
Favorite song from this album!
One of the things that stood out to me about Steely Dan, is the connection and passion Walter and Donald shared. It to me was very genuine. I liked trying to think to and imagine what shows were like before my time. When I see how selective they were about their band, how records were created, it only made me enjoy them more as musicians and composers. I have spent quite a bit of time collecting their records, watching archived shows, reading about them, and last year had tickets to see them at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. It was their 8-night run, and I got tickets to 2 shows. Aja and a greatest hits evening. I was unable to make that show, and have regretted that ever since, and even more so now with the passing of Walter Becker.
I have spent quite a bit of time collecting their records, watching archived shows, reading about them, and last year had tickets to see them at the Beacon Theatre in New York City. It was their 8-night run, and I got tickets to 2 shows. Aja and a greatest hits evening. I was unable to make that show, and have regretted that ever since, and even more so now with the passing of Walter Becker.
Steely Dan to me is as real as it gets. The sound, the instruments, the whole friendship, and vibe are and were compelling. Lyrically, I enjoy being told stories, finding new and old ways things used to be called or places that used to exist. Hearing the tones and smiling just because it’s sheer gold and chatting and dancing amongst friends is fun. Needless to say, to me, this band is more to me than a band I listen to that created records, they are and will always be an experience. When folks come over to visit or to dance, It is my go to. In the mornings, at night, before roller derby games, when I need to smile they are a motivator. Steely Dan is important to me and always will be.
“Could it be that I have found my home at last
Home at last”?
When I bring records, I always bring Steely Dan.
Steely Dan definitely sparked my love of vinyl collecting and helped launch record nights with a few of my friends at local venues and my own home. You could say they are one of the best conversation starters.
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It has been a dream of mine to see Steely Dan, and with the passing of Walter Becker, that is very saddening. It has been very heartbreaking thinking about the band, the North American tour, and how Donald is doing with the passing of his good friend and longtime partner in music. He recently became ill, and canceled a few evenings and shows, but intends to keep the music alive for Walter and I do plan to see them once and for all.
Walter’s daughter posted a very touching tribute to her dad in which you can read here.
Even if you are not a fan, I know you sing along to “dirty work” and “reelin in the years” so toss on a record and take in the Dan.
Cheers to Walter and all of his incredible contributions to the music world and for helping create in my opinion some of the best records ever recorded.
Check out a live version of another one of my favorites Josie.
