Biography:
Formed in 1972, Steely Dan's original line-up concsisted of Jeff "Skunk" Baxter on lead guitar, Denny Dias on rhythem guitar, Jim Hodder on the drums, and at the nucleus of the band was Donald Fagen (vocals, keyboards) and Walter Becker (Bass). Fagen & Becker were the driving force, and inspiration, behind the group's success.
Although plagued by line-up changes over the following decade, including stints with Michael McDonald (of the Dooie Brothers) and Jeff Porcaro (of Toto), the Steely Dan force of Fagen & Becker was able to guide the group to international success. The Duo managed to put out six Top 20 albums in the U.S., and three Top 20 albums in the U.K. This included seven Top 20 singles spanning the decade between 1972-1982.
Listening to Steely Dan, it is easy to understand why they were one of the most highly regarded rock bands of the 70's. Thier pursuit of perfection both in the studio and in live performance made them a benchmark for others to emulate. Donald & Walter always pushed the envelope of technology and talent to the extreme. With thier ability to capture the story telling of a fiction work., the musicianship of a jazz combo, and belnd it with the rock of the 70's, Steely Dan set thier sound apart from the world.
Most rock & roll bands are a tightly wound unit that developed their music through years of playing in garages and clubs around their hometown. Steely Dan never subscribed to that aesthetic. As the vehicle for the songwriting of Walter Becker and Donald Fagen, Steely Dan defied all rock & roll conventions. Becker and Fagen never truly enjoyed rock