Steely Dan was one of the most innovative and influential rock bands of the 1970s. Their music was a unique blend of jazz, rock, and pop, with complex melodies, intricate arrangements, and biting lyrics. Steely Dan's songs were also notable for their sophisticated production, which often featured a wide range of instruments and effects.
Here is a list of the ten best songs recorded by Steely Dan, written in the finest 70s-styled rock journalism fashion:
Aja
"Aja" is the title track from Steely Dan's 1977 album, and it is widely considered to be one of the band's finest songs. The song is a lush and dreamy jazz-pop ballad with a complex melody and intricate arrangement. The lyrics are about a man who is running away from his troubles to be with the woman he loves.
Peg
"Peg" is another classic track from Steely Dan's 1977 album Aja. The song is a uptempo funk-rock number with a catchy melody and a driving beat. The lyrics are about a woman who is both seductive and dangerous.
Kid Charlemagne
"Kid Charlemagne" is a track from Steely Dan's 1976 album The Royal Scam. The song is a funky, reggae-infused rock number with a catchy melody and biting lyrics. The song is about a drug dealer who is living the high life, but who is ultimately doomed to fall.
Reelin' in the Years
"Reelin' in the Years" is the lead single from Steely Dan's 1972 debut album Can't Buy a Thrill. The song is a catchy jazz-rock fusion number with a complex melody and intricate arrangement. The lyrics are about the passage of time and the changing of the times.
My Old School
"My Old School" is a track from Steely Dan's 1973 album Countdown to Ecstasy. The song is a slow, soulful ballad with a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song is about the singer's return to his old school and his reflections on his life.
Rikki Don't Lose That Number
"Rikki Don't Lose That Number" is a track from Steely Dan's 1974 album Pretzel Logic. The song is a catchy pop-rock number with a memorable melody and clever lyrics. The song is about a man who is trying to get in touch with a woman who he has fallen in love with.
Doctor Wu
"Doctor Wu" is a track from Steely Dan's 1975 album Katy Lied. The song is a funky, reggae-infused rock number with a catchy melody and mysterious lyrics. The song is about a mysterious man who is selling drugs and other illicit goods.
Black Cow
"Black Cow" is a track from Steely Dan's 1977 album Aja. The song is a slow, funky jazz-rock ballad with a beautiful melody and sophisticated lyrics. The song is about a woman who is both beautiful and dangerous.
Babylon Sisters
"Babylon Sisters" is a track from Steely Dan's 1980 album Gaucho. The song is a complex and ambitious jazz-rock fusion number with a catchy melody and biting lyrics. The song is about the dangers of the music industry and the corruption of the soul.
Deacon Blues
"Deacon Blues" is a track from Steely Dan's 1977 album Aja. The song is a slow, soulful ballad with a beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics. The song is about a man who is reflecting on his life and his mistakes.
Steely Dan's music was not always commercially successful, but they have had a lasting influence on popular music. Their songs are still played on the radio and covered by other artists today. Steely Dan's music is a testament to the power of creativity, innovation, and sophistication.
Of course, this is merely the proverbial tip of the iceberg when it comes to the best of Steely Dan? Is I miss out any of your own favourites? Maybe come up with your own top 10 and share it in the comments below. Subscribe now for more classic music posts.