10 Essential Tracks by Steely Dan You Probably Forgot

Rediscover the timeless music of Steely Dan with these ten standout tracks that may have slipped past your radar. Each one demonstrates the band’s signature blend of sophisticated jazz-rock and irresistible grooves, underscoring their status as one of the most innovative groups of their era.

Josie

A true highlight of Steely Dan’s album Aja, “Josie” brings an unforgettable intro that sets the stage for a song about a woman who’s the life of the party. The character of Josie captures the spirit of the times, drawing revelers with her charm. Behind the infectious beat, the musicianship is nothing short of professional. Renowned session drummer Jim Keltner adds his expert touch, delivering a precise yet understated performance that elevates the track and contributes to the song’s staying power.

Bad Sneakers

Found on the Katy Lied album, “Bad Sneakers” represents a pivotal moment as Steely Dan moved closer to jazz, leading to their later efforts. Even as the song veers away from mainstream rock vibes, it features a level of refinement, with Michael Omartian’s grand piano adding a touch of class. Walter Becker’s guitar solo is a standout moment, showcasing the blend of rock and elegance that defines the band’s sound during this creative period.

Deacon Blues

With an intricately crafted intro, “Deacon Blues” is an example of musical excellence, rich with complex chord variations that are rare in the pop music landscape. This track from Aja remains true to the band’s philosophy of not just technical brilliance, but also groove. The band never strays from what makes a song truly resonate—the combination of unity, variety, and rhythm that compels you to move.

Hey Nineteen

Steely Dan isn’t typically associated with reflecting on cultural shifts, but “Hey Nineteen” does just that with a vivid portrayal of generational disconnect. The references to Aretha Franklin, college fraternities, and the shift to adulthood are snapshots of an era. As a tune from their album Gaucho, it captures a sense of nostalgia among a generation that was growing older and starting to look back on their youth.

IGY (What A Beautiful World) – Donald Fagen

Donald Fagen’s “IGY” shines with technical mastery, boasting a production quality so crisp it’s used as a benchmark by audio professionals. This song from Fagen’s solo project The Nightfly does more than sound good; it presents a visionary world, grounded in science fiction yet believable, where human ingenuity has the potential to create a better future.

FM (No Static At All)

This track earned its reputation as a Steely Dan anthem when it hit the airwaves. Not found on the Aja album, this tune instead became famous as the theme for a movie, standing apart with its commercial appeal and classy string arrangement by Johnny Mandel. In true Steely Dan fashion, it features virtuosic collaboration including backing vocals from Eagles’ members.

Glamour Profession

A cutting reflection on the high costs of a fast lifestyle, “Glamour Profession” from the Gaucho album delves into the underbelly of glamour through the tale of a Hollywood drug dealer. Its funky groove conceals a deeper narrative about the highs and lows of the city of stars, reminding listeners that Steely Dan’s music often carries more beneath the surface than first meets the ear.

New Frontier – Donald Fagen

Another solo piece by Donald Fagen, “New Frontier” from The Nightfly, captures the essence of the Cold War era through a budding romance. The song weaves nostalgia with contemporary feelings, filled with cultural references that paint a vivid picture of the time.

Aja

The title track from their album, “Aja” is an eight-minute journey through masterful musicianship. This piece features an array of talented session musicians who each add their flair to create a mesmerizing array of soundscapes. It’s a standout achievement showcasing the band at its peak, creating a space where listeners can lose themselves in the music.

Peg

From the brilliant album Aja, “Peg” features a cheerful melody and the distinctive Steely Dan polish. The layers of sound, including Michael McDonald’s background vocals, harmonize to create a sunny, captivating tune. It’s a feel-good track that embodies the Steely Dan spirit of blending infectious grooves with razor-sharp production.