SUCH a great song, thank you all so much, make sure to vote in the poll, what’s the next Steely Dan song?! Cheers all!! We’re doing a PO Box opening tomorrow @ 2pm EST, see ya there!! 🙌🏻🔥
On Deacon Blues. Becker and Fagen were living in LA at the time and they heard the name of the great LA Rams football player Deacon Jones on the news every night. That's where they got the name. It has nothing to do with the Wake Forest Deacons. That's like people who say Rikki Don't Lose That Number is about Rickie Lee Jones or Godwhacker is about George Bush. How hard is this to look up??????? PS this is directed at the person who in the Chat said this was not how they got the name of the song in a very nasty way.
Me too!!! Jr in high school listening to this album, hanging out. Simpler times. Finally got to see them 2x in 2017 where Walter couldn’t make the show cause he was sick. By the second show, he had just passed. So I never got to see Walter, sad but Larry Carlton, I did.
I called my wife into the room as I started this reaction video. She sat down and got this big smile on her face as she said "do you think they are going to like it"?. "they sure as hell better. If they don't they better get hearing aids" You two did not disappoint. We lived this music in the 60s and 70s. The inside of my head is wallpapered with most everything you two play. We are so happy you have a appreciation of the 2 greatest decades for music called Rock and Roll. Both of you are usually spot on in your opinions of the structure of the music and the overall meaning. This is our music til we die. But at our end it's ALL yours. Take care of it.
Dennis, great comment and love your last comment how our generation will pass it on to the next to treasure to care for when we're gone. Also liked your other comment on how "we lived this music", so true, it's the soundtrack of lives. So happy we had such great music to remember.
@@steveullrich7737 I can't agree more. Just like classical, swing, and jazz, we just borrow the music. Great music is truly timeless, no matter what the genre.
Thank you for articulating what I've been trying to since I found this channel. I was born in '74 so I have the '80's & '90's wallpapered to the inside of my head, but classic rock is the glue. My parents made sure I didn't miss out on the best music ever made. My dad is one of the best musicians I've ever known, and he had an epic record collection which he handed down to me, along with a lift-top record player with enormous speakers, I mean it was a piece of furniture. There's no other way to listen to Magic Man. Thanks for your great comment, and thanks to Andy & Alex for making sure this music is appreciated by this generation. 🤘💜🤘
Steely Dan is not a guilty pleasure! The most sophisticated, layered “adult” band in rock. Look at how TIMELESS the music is. Still fresh and unrivaled.
I got a chuckle from Andy’s comment about it being a song he’ll still enjoy listening to when he’s 45..... Hell, guys, I first heard it when I was 19 and I’m 68 and when it comes on the radio or anywhere else, nobody needs to say anything to me until it’s over! I feel the same way about Reeling In The Years!
Endorse the calls for "Old School" and "Hey Nineteen" Also, "FM" which is a great reminder that FM radio really surged in the 1970s. Can you imagine the sadness of a band like Steely Dan on am monotone?
"I'm gonna like this when I'm 45" Guys, this song came out when I was 8 years old, and I loved it back then. Here I am, now 56 years old, and I love it just as much, if not more! How can someone NOT love this song? Between the sitar and organ solos, the great vocals, and especially the PERFECT percussion throughout, the song has everything you'd want!
I was going to make this exact comment.....I looked up the year it came out after the comment was made, because I knew I still love this after all these years....lol. I was born in 64', and MOST of our generation's songs still stand as the greatest ever recorded. 70's music will definitely still be rockin' 50 years from now !!!!
@@cindiaker5778 Born in 64 also. Heard this at the same age on AM radio in mom's car in 72. Steeley Dan fan ever since. Still a great song, always will be.
Skunk Baxter's best guitar work for sure, it's his signature song to play in concert. Three solos that just get better, better and best. Solid A+ jam. My fave to listen to (along with Rikki for the keys and bass) and I'm a Larry Carlton nut. Baxter 🔥🔥🔥🎶🎵🎯
This song started my journey with the Dan. Fall of 72. My requests for more include My Old School, Pretzel Logic, Haitian Divorce. Steely Dan was named after a marital aid featured in a movie named "Naked Lunch" I think.
@@KH-qv8tk not coffee, weed and/or powder, cocaine, probably both. I lived in L.A. and I'm not telling but, I might have lived that song...a couple of times. That depends on the statute of limitations 😁
"Do It Again" was released in 1972. The sound was so different compared to anything else on the radio at that time. It made me an instant fan of Steely Dan's music. "Do It Again" definitely has a vibe, but it's as individual as those who listen to this song. So glad you enjoyed it!
Yeah, Deacon Blues, certainly. Midnight cruiser is great as well. These guys are so well versed in philosophy as well. You can catch so much in studying their lyrics.
I've brought it to their attention that we'll revolt if they don't eventually get to Deacon Blues. Now were probably not well versed in revolting, but we'll learn on run. We also have a slew of Portland videos to digest.
This is "The" song, that started it all going for Steely Dan. This was their first hit song. Nobody had ever heard of "Steely Dan" before they released this great song.
A & A, just found your channel and see the last comment left was three years ago so it’s highly unlikely that you’re still rockin it, but your critique of Do It Again was reminiscent of my initial reaction in 1972 when I first heard it and I still listen weekly 50 years later. ✌🏼
"My Old School" and "Don't Take Me Alive" will have the same effect on you when you first hear it and when you hear them 40 years later. They don't just withstand the test of time, but they will make you stop whatever you are doing just to groove.
One of the best debut albums on any serious music junkies list. The musicians that they assembled were the top session bad asses and it shows. Fuck me what a record. Check it out boys, it’s filled with great songs. Stay safe and keep grooving.
"Don't Take Me Alive"-Nasty guitar intro. Extremely catchy song. Fantastic writing. What more do you need to know? "Haitian Divorce" is a well written , reggae-inspired song but more of an album track.
Ok. I think Haitian Divorce is a better song - deep cut. Deacon Blues is excellent but more radio. Your choice. Can’t go wrong either way. I know!!! Do them both in one sitting!!!
I cannot agree more! The year out of college, I heard this 1-2 times every night on the radio while working at a hotel. Made it a job to look forward too.
Andy, you nailed it. You WILL be digging Steely Dan at 45. They are the one musical act I have loved continuously since the ‘70s, with no lull. Donald and Walter’s music is timeless and their lyrics speak to you and reveal themselves the further down the road of life you travel. My journey with Steely Dan will never end. Neither will yours.
this vocal is uniquely mixed and so impressive - double tracked panned hard L/R with reverb & chorus panned center - gives it such depth while maintaining EQ clarity - just another production jewel among many
Steely Dan does not make a BAD-SONG... and most of them are nefarious for being based in the seedy underworld of Life... Pleasant Music, but the subject matter of the songs has a very dark side that many are unaware of.
@@leonh.kalayjian6556 I'm sure at one point I did but it obviously didn't stick with me. My favs are Gaucho, Aja, Pretzel Logic and Royal Scam. Although I love Aja a lot, Gaucho and Royal Scam are my go-tos. ✌️❤️
As someone else commented Steely Dan just does not make bad songs. That being said i think Deacon Blues is the next song to hit for sure. One that i dont think anyone else has mentioned yet though is Babylon Sisters. It is so funky!
Yes, another favorite of mine. I think maybe they have not done or mentioned it because they don't know how to pronounce it. And who does until you hear it.
Your next Steely Dan song should be any of the ones others here have mentioned, but I do hope you do "Aja" sooner than later. Steve Gadd laid down perhaps the greatest studio-captured outtro drum fills of the '70s on this song -- which happens to be the title track of an album that you guys should react to, too.
Your comment about enjoying this song still at age 45 is spot on. This is the bar set of quality music I grew up with. The point is, if you really love it this much then please, please pass it on to the next generation so it can stay alive. Never before has there been this many musicians and artists who create the music, lyrics, play all the instruments, become their own producers and promoters and then take it all on the road for us to see! It most likely won't happen again on this level we experienced in the 60's and 70's. I so appreciate watching the two of you react and hearing your positive feedback. It's like living it all over again! Thank you for all you do, hope this continues for a very long time!💕💕💕
My Old School has some "ridiculous" guitar playing, Haitian Divorce, is very sardonic, and has some "ridiculous" Wah guitar playing. Deacon Blues has great Sax, and Horns. You can really just pick any SD song and you'll get a unique vibe. The Fez is so lyrically simple, and metaphorical, but the vibe is pure SD.
That was my FIRST thought after reading the "Do It Again" track for review... not that it's not a great song (it is!), but My Old School is just on another level. An absolute MUST listen-to for folks who dig Steely Dan... as are Aja (Steve Gadd with a legendary, iconic performance on the drums), Deacon Blues, Hey Nineteen, Show Biz Kids, Black Friday, Kid Charlemagne, The Fez, Babylon Sisters, and many others I'm forgetting.
Listened to Steely Dan in high school. Great cruising with your friends tune while catching a buzz. I still listen to this at 64 yr old. Rock on. I grew up with the best music ever. Love seeing younger people enjoy some real talent.
It's truly difficult to find a Steely Dan song that you won't like. They just don't really miss. Some songs are better than others but all seem to have their own infectious vibe. They didn't play live for the vast majority of their prime career, but they did tour at least once and you better believe I wasn't missing that one. Awesome!
I’ve only recently got into Steely Dan recently. They are one of my favorite bands now. It’s amazing the number of great songs they have recorded. Deacon Blues is a great song. FM is a favorite of mine as well.
Wait until you really see start diving into the meanings of the songs. Their music becomes even more amazing with those unique lyrics, not just stupid love songs with the Dan. Check out the song Here At The Western World.
I always felt the first verse was like the old west. Rancher diverts water running through his land so it devalues the next guys land cause he no longer has water runing through it. So he went out and shot and killed the guy then ran for the border but was caught and brought back for trial. The judge let him go for lack of witnesses. Sounds like the plot of an old western to me.
“Do It Again” started it all. Back then it was so different from anything we had heard before. Little did we know it was the beginning of the incredible legacy of Steely Dan. Their sound is still unique and so recognizable. What a treasure trove of specialness. Still blowing away new generations of musical aficionados. Thanks Walter(RIP), Donald and every incredible musician that contributed to their sound🔊🔊🔊 Just finished watching your reactions. Your “someone stole your bottled water” analysis made me laugh. We didn’t have bottled water back then. If you told us we would be buying bottled water, we would have told you “no effing way!”
You’re right about the music and I had to crack up about the bottled water. You are so right, we thought that was the most ridiculous thing we had ever heard of. Who knew?
Deacon Blues before Haitian Divorce, also have not done Bodhisattva, FM or Hey Nineteen and My Old School. So many great songs from these guys and nothing typical, really.
And at 62, their songs still please my ears as much as they did 44 years ago as a senior in high-school starting to play bass (still do regularly). Seen them in concert twice, just as good live....
Lyrics: [Verse 1] In the mornin you go gunnin' For the man who stole your water And you fire till he is done in But they catch you at the border And the mourners are all sangin' As they drag you by your feet But the hangman isn't hangin' And they put you on the street [Chorus] Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round You go back, Jack, do it again [Verse 2] When you know she's no high climber Then you find your only friend In a room with your two timer And you're sure you're near the end Then you love a little wild one And she brings you only sorrow All the time you know she's smilin' You'll be on your knees tomorrow [Chorus] Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round You go back, Jack, do it again [Instrumental break 2:39-4:25] [Verse 3] Now you swear and kick and beg us That you're not a gambling man Then you find you're back in Vegas With a handle in your hand Your black cards can make you money So you hide them when you're able In the land of milk and honey You must put them on the table [Outro] Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round You go back, Jack, do it again
Dudes, This starts out as a Western movie. He didn't just steal his water bottle in the school lunchroom. He stole his effing canteen in the middle of the effing desert! That's a killing offence...
Exactly! The guy stole your water. You go "gunning" for him, fight till he is "done in" (dead), you're caught at the border, they drag you into town by your feet, but they set you free due to technicalities (hangman on vacation)! BUT: you don't learn, and so you will keep going down that losing road (do it again). You will be betrayed by a partner, cheated on by your woman and best friend, and cheat yourself by gambling away your potential for a comfortable life.
The problem all of these young reactors have is their very narrow frames of reference. With the demise of network television and radio, the commonality of experience we all used to enjoy is gone. They haven't been forced to watch old films (Western or otherwise) and series reruns, they have their iPads, Hulu, and Netflicks. A&A may never have seen your described scenario in a film. The blessings of our highly technical future are also a curse. As we gain independence, we lose commonality.
"Stole your water" is a reference that goes WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY back. To the Old West, when water rights to farmers and ranchers were EVERYTHING...Today's equivalent would be, I guess, someone siphoning gas out of the tank out of your car or truck.
This song reminds me of the movie FM. The soundtrack for this movie was one of the best ever, full of Steely Dan, with some Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and Joe Walsh thrown in just for fun. I think ya'll would enjoy the movie and I wore the two album set of this soundtrack out back in the day.
Gotta do My Old School next! Wicked guitar, insane horns, Danettes on background vocals, G. Gordon Liddy busting the boys for reefer in the lyrics - it's the works!!
This was the Steely Dan song I wanted you guys to share, and you did not disappoint. That guitar solo; the drums, bass and keyboard keeping the rhythm, amazing vocals and the vocals; it's like a well oiled metronome surrounded by musical fireworks.
I'm really getting a kick out of you young folks enjoying music from my generation. Baby boomers did a lot of cool stuff. The 70's were a blast! I am so glad to have lived through it. I'm sorry you missed it!
The reality, I'm sorry to say, is that the baby boomers didn't make this music. We just benefited from it. The people Making this great stuff were born during the War. Late 30s, 40s. As much as it was the soundtrack of our youth, we (I'm 68) didn't create it. Our generation created Metal and singer-songwriters. In my opinion, we kinda dropped the ball.
I remember well, hearing this album for the first time, after "Reelin' in the Years" hit the airwaves as a single. I eagerly anticipated future releases, and I was never disappointed! What a terrific debut album "Can't Buy a Thrill" is! Steely Dan reminds me of your friend's insanely unique, beautifully appointed, immaculately kept house at the beach, or in the mountains, that you know you will never be able to attain! As far as, what Andy said, "finding songs I know I will enjoy when I'm 45" I first heard this when I was much younger than y'all and still enjoy the hell out of it at 65!!
One of my favorite underrated Dan songs is Dirty Work. One song where Donald Fagan is actually NOT the lead singer. I kind of get lost in the sauce in this one. Easy listening to with a glass of whatever your drinking. Great chorus on this song!
I saw them in concert in 1993, at the Target Center in Minneapolis, and "Do it again" was their opening song. Frickin AWESOME! Half the Doobie Brothers were playing with them! Incredible concert.
Definitely need to try Don't Take Me Alive, Pretzel Logic, King of the World, Aja, Babylon Sisters, Reeling in the Years - basically everything they've ever done!!
I grew up around those guys; their core members (Cash and Dillon) had the local band, Family Tree, prior to the Daredevils. Jackie Blue is their jewel of a song that's conversely somewhat outside of the genre of their overall playlist of good ol' down-in-the-holler tunes such as "If You Want to Get to Heaven", "Chicken Train", etc.
The solo done on a Coral Electric Sitar. Brilliant move. This song just speaks essence of Steely Dan. This one is particularly important in the introduction of the band to the general public as an edited version was getting major airplay. Fundamental indeed. Cheers guys. Ready for the next drive time. 🥃
"Stole your water" is like an old west Rancher reference where some Rancher has water rights to a water hole or section of river for his cattle and some squatter comes along and "steals" his water rights. A lot of range wars in the old west were started over "water rights"
So funny he compared it to his current world, stealing a bottle of water, even went into his mom's story about not to lie about little things. It's like no man, he took his lands water not a bottle of water lol.
@@jirimondo Not necessarily. In this song for example, they're talking about the bad choices we make in life, and we know they're bad choices, but still we continue to go back and do it again over and over.
The guitar solo is so skillful it almost sounds unskilled. It kind of drunkenly stumbles along and then pulls the beat (and you) along with it. What a talent in ability and composition. Such a unique sound.
SUCH a great song, thank you all so much, make sure to vote in the poll, what’s the next Steely Dan song?! Cheers all!! We’re doing a PO Box opening tomorrow @ 2pm EST, see ya there!! 🙌🏻🔥
Haitian Divorce
FM or My Old School. Anything from Aja should be left out and saved for a Full Album review (even though you've already done Peg and Black Cow).
DEACON BLUES! Pure poetry. You guys are amazing.
PLEASE hit some Moody Blues!
On Deacon Blues. Becker and Fagen were living in LA at the time and they heard the name of the great LA Rams football player Deacon Jones on the news every night. That's where they got the name. It has nothing to do with the Wake Forest Deacons. That's like people who say Rikki Don't Lose That Number is about Rickie Lee Jones or Godwhacker is about George Bush. How hard is this to look up??????? PS this is directed at the person who in the Chat said this was not how they got the name of the song in a very nasty way.
"Do It Again" came out when I was 15 years old. I'm 63 years old now and I still love listening to it. Steely Dan is timeless.
Me too!!! Jr in high school listening to this album, hanging out. Simpler times. Finally got to see them 2x in 2017 where Walter couldn’t make the show cause he was sick. By the second show, he had just passed. So I never got to see Walter, sad but Larry Carlton, I did.
I don't get why nobody seems to want them to check out "Dirty Work" from the same album. It's a great one too.
This song hasn't lost a step.
same story heard it once on the radio and bought the album next day now 67 and still playing it
that is not a picture of a 60 year old...now be fair to the rest of us
It’s about people who are gluttons for punishment, crime, bad relationships, gambling. Vices in general. They repeat the cycle again and again.
Agustin Mario Quiroga And they’re unsatisfied. They can’t buy a thrill.
Fear and loathing in Loathing in Los Vegas song
Sort of like me listening to Steely Dan ;)
Thanks for that. In, what?, 50 years or so, I hadn't put that together!
I liken it to an unforfiled prayer in a metaphorical way.
I called my wife into the room as I started this reaction video. She sat down and got this big smile on her face as she said "do you think they are going to like it"?. "they sure as hell better. If they don't they better get hearing aids" You two did not disappoint. We lived this music in the 60s and 70s. The inside of my head is wallpapered with most everything you two play. We are so happy you have a appreciation of the 2 greatest decades for music called Rock and Roll. Both of you are usually spot on in your opinions of the structure of the music and the overall meaning. This is our music til we die. But at our end it's ALL yours. Take care of it.
We both Loved this comment so much
Dennis, great comment and love your last comment how our generation will pass it on to the next to treasure to care for when we're gone. Also liked your other comment on how "we lived this music", so true, it's the soundtrack of lives. So happy we had such great music to remember.
@@steveullrich7737 I can't agree more. Just like classical, swing, and jazz, we just borrow the music. Great music is truly timeless, no matter what the genre.
Thank you for articulating what I've been trying to since I found this channel. I was born in '74 so I have the '80's & '90's wallpapered to the inside of my head, but classic rock is the glue. My parents made sure I didn't miss out on the best music ever made. My dad is one of the best musicians I've ever known, and he had an epic record collection which he handed down to me, along with a lift-top record player with enormous speakers, I mean it was a piece of furniture. There's no other way to listen to Magic Man.
Thanks for your great comment, and thanks to Andy & Alex for making sure this music is appreciated by this generation. 🤘💜🤘
I love your reply!!!!! So great to hear. Take care 🤗❤️
Steely Dan is not a guilty pleasure! The most sophisticated, layered “adult” band in rock. Look at how TIMELESS the music is. Still fresh and unrivaled.
I got a chuckle from Andy’s comment about it being a song he’ll still enjoy listening to when he’s 45.....
Hell, guys, I first heard it when I was 19 and I’m 68 and when it comes on the radio or anywhere else, nobody needs to say anything to me until it’s over!
I feel the same way about Reeling In The Years!
Ditto
Endorse the calls for "Old School" and "Hey Nineteen" Also, "FM" which is a great reminder that FM radio really surged in the 1970s. Can you imagine the sadness of a band like Steely Dan on am monotone?
"no static at all..."
@@oregonclematis5786 it's grapefruit wine!!
Totally agree on your 3 songs. Also add in Don’t Take Me Alive. Awesome song!
Kick off your high heel sneakers. It’s party time 🥳
FM is Wonka Wonka to the max.
"I'm gonna like this when I'm 45"
Guys, this song came out when I was 8 years old, and I loved it back then. Here I am, now 56 years old, and I love it just as much, if not more! How can someone NOT love this song? Between the sitar and organ solos, the great vocals, and especially the PERFECT percussion throughout, the song has everything you'd want!
I was going to make this exact comment.....I looked up the year it came out after the comment was made, because I knew I still love this after all these years....lol. I was born in 64', and MOST of our generation's songs still stand as the greatest ever recorded. 70's music will definitely still be rockin' 50 years from now !!!!
This song came out when I was in 10th grade. Seriously changed my musical life, horizons expanded.
Yup. Me, too. I remember hearing it on the AM car radio in 1972 when it came out. I had to pull over.
@@cindiaker5778 Born in 64 also. Heard this at the same age on AM radio in mom's car in 72. Steeley Dan fan ever since. Still a great song, always will be.
“My Old School” is an absolute must from Steely Dan.
Omg right??? I literally put my headphones on just to do the backing vocals..... loud!!!!
My Old School and Dirty Work
Skunk Baxter's best guitar work for sure, it's his signature song to play in concert. Three solos that just get better, better and best. Solid A+ jam.
My fave to listen to (along with Rikki for the keys and bass) and I'm a Larry Carlton nut.
Baxter 🔥🔥🔥🎶🎵🎯
This song started my journey with the Dan. Fall of 72. My requests for more include My Old School, Pretzel Logic, Haitian Divorce. Steely Dan was named after a marital aid featured in a movie named "Naked Lunch" I think.
The guitar on My Old School is so sick!
70 years old here and still digging Steely Dan!!! Timeless
"'Hey 19" has such great groove... "The Quervo Gold, the fine Colombian, make tonight a wonderful thing"
Is the fine Colombian weed or coffee?
@@KH-qv8tk 😑
@@KH-qv8tk HAHAHAHAHA!
@@KH-qv8tk not coffee, weed and/or powder, cocaine, probably both. I lived in L.A. and I'm not telling but, I might have lived that song...a couple of times. That depends on the statute of limitations 😁
@@deantait8326 ha ha
No one ever recommends "Babylon Sisters," which is weird. Total slow-groove banger.
No doubt!
yes thank you
Hell yeah! One of their best grooves.
Here come those Santa Ana winds again...
Bad Sneakers is pretty good, too!
Bodhisattva is the song you’re looking for. Non stop pedal to the metal sauce.
Yes to Bodhisattva!!!
Just ignore that fact you have heard it already Andy, no one will mind. We are all human.
Or, taking into account Alex's loupine upbringing, mostly human...
First time I heard it I was on Acid and saw aliens and shit
By Far Dan’s Best Banger!
Agree on My Old School. The song has everything.
It’s probably my favorite song of theirs, my favorite band.
Do it again and My Old School are my absolute favorites for me
The backing vocals are stellar on My Old School
The way the third verse hits after the two humongous solos is something else
"Do It Again" was released in 1972. The sound was so different compared to anything else on the radio at that time. It made me an instant fan of Steely Dan's music. "Do It Again" definitely has a vibe, but it's as individual as those who listen to this song. So glad you enjoyed it!
And that is exactly the magic of music.
It expanded what music could be! Music & lyrics...
Bought the album right after hearing this on the radio. They're always there.
My buddy and I used to cruise around in his red 65 mustang listening to this 8 track tape. Great memories.
I'm still calling for "Deacon Blues" and "Midnight Cruiser."
Two of my faves. Yearning for jazz greatness.
Yeah, Deacon Blues, certainly. Midnight cruiser is great as well. These guys are so well versed in philosophy as well. You can catch so much in studying their lyrics.
"Any Major Dude Will Tell You" also.
I've brought it to their attention that we'll revolt if they don't eventually get to Deacon Blues. Now were probably not well versed in revolting, but we'll learn on run. We also have a slew of Portland videos to digest.
I'm calling for "Kings".
This is "The" song, that started it all going for Steely Dan. This was their first hit song. Nobody had ever heard of "Steely Dan" before they released this great song.
Maybe in US. In the UK as a teenager I heard and bought Reeling In The Years as a single when it came out. Obviously loved them ever since.
@@terryross1032 "Do it Again" was released first; "Reeling in the Years" was the follow up single.
i thought dirty work was first
They did if they read 1959's Naked Lunch....However, it was a very different thing in the book!
yep, this and reeling in the years for a 13 year old hearing it on the transistor radio. few things have topped that combo over the last 50 years.
My Old School is great, or Don’t Take Me Alive.
My Old School....just do it! Great lyrics!
@@davidpowellseattle Recently learned what "35 sweet goodbyes" means ;D
The 1970's was full of great music. And then there's Steely Dan.
A & A, just found your channel and see the last comment left was three years ago so it’s highly unlikely that you’re still rockin it, but your critique of Do It Again was reminiscent of my initial reaction in 1972 when I first heard it and I still listen weekly 50 years later. ✌🏼
I agree with the consensus, you gotta do "Old School". Its got the vibe.
YES YES YES!!!
And "Any Major Dude Will Tell You"
It's 'My Old School'. Live, it's the tune that prompts their audience most party like atmosphere.
My Old School
No, Old School, with Wil Ferrell and Luke Wilson. it’s a total banger!
Not sure why S-tier exists if not for songs like this. Almost 50 years old and still one of the best ever.
It is a classic song, but they can't all be S-tier and it's their show man.
Hard agree.
Yeah, they said they felt they were overusing the S-tier, but downgrading this song even to an A+ is like saying Charlize Theron is cute.
@@rpc717 I am not a huge fan, but what a groove... and the songs not bad either.
Is it me or does this have a similar sound to Black Magic Woman? The beginning, after Santana's guitar riff ends.
"My Old School" and "Don't Take Me Alive" will have the same effect on you when you first hear it and when you hear them 40 years later. They don't just withstand the test of time, but they will make you stop whatever you are doing just to groove.
I'm at 50 years enjoying Steely Dan just as much at 67 as I did at 17+. I also put in a request for My Old School to be next.
@@bobgorman3874 You got 5 years on me...but The Dan is timeless.
My Old School in my top five
My Old School has some of the coolest horn work ever. Excellence in every respect.
Don't take me alive is the jam!
One of the best debut albums on any serious music junkies list. The musicians that they assembled were the top session bad asses and it shows. Fuck me what a record. Check it out boys, it’s filled with great songs. Stay safe and keep grooving.
As a Steely Dan fan, to see the unadulterated pleasure you’re getting from listening to this for the first time warms my heart.
"Don't Take Me Alive"-Nasty guitar intro. Extremely catchy song. Fantastic writing. What more do you need to know? "Haitian Divorce" is a well written , reggae-inspired song but more of an album track.
Haitian Divorce was a single in the UK?? Only made no 17 though. Do it again for comparison made no8
I'm hoping they'll take Don't Take Me Alive as a suggestion on one of their Deep Cut Live sessions!
I was just going to suggest that one.
Ok. I think Haitian Divorce is a better song - deep cut. Deacon Blues is excellent but more radio. Your choice. Can’t go wrong either way. I know!!! Do them both in one sitting!!!
Most people focus on Larry Carlton’s guitar work on “Kid Charlemagne,” but for me, it’s his intro to “Don’t Take Me Alive” that’s the killer.
Got a 7hr drive tomorrow. Steely Dan all the way, all the albums. Might just turn around and do it all again
Just make sure there’s “gas in the car” ...
Dude
@@Rigoletta53 yea there’s gas in the car
Deacon Blues or FM. FM is really a different Steely Dan tune.
I’ll give you no static at all over your choices.
Here, here! ☝️
Yes! These are the most Steely Dan songs that exist. Peg is a close 3rd
FM is a great choice!
Nothing but Blues and Elvis, and somebody else's favorite song.
I'm 73, and Do It Again still turns my Crank!!
I can remember hearing this song when I was 13 and loving it. I'm 63 now and it still sounds so good. 50 years and, shit where did the time go.
My Old School is quintessential Dan. One of the finest guitar songs they made.
Right there with Kid Charlemagne as far as guitar greats.
Yep yep, I put the album it's on in my comment. Great hit! 🤙😎
I cannot agree more! The year out of college, I heard this 1-2 times every night on the radio while working at a hotel. Made it a job to look forward too.
Deacon Blues first. That's a must listen. They're all great, but that's a must.
You can never go wrong with Steely Dan...consummate professionals.
‘Deacon Blues’!!!
Andy, you nailed it. You WILL be digging Steely Dan at 45. They are the one musical act I have loved continuously since the ‘70s, with no lull. Donald and Walter’s music is timeless and their lyrics speak to you and reveal themselves the further down the road of life you travel. My journey with Steely Dan will never end. Neither will yours.
Damn dudes! Im 75 and trying to boogie at 1am in my room.... Cats are thinking " this old b---ch better not fall on us!) Lol
As someone once said, Steely Dan is "your favorite band's favorite band."
Steely Dan songs are all so unique and just musically brilliant. This is one of my favorites of theirs.
Any Major Dude Will Tell You is their best song IMO
My favorite
Any Major Dude is a lyrical standout: hopeful and kind in place of their usual cynicism. Terrific musically as well.
Incredible song
I agree, their best.
Oh yes. Pretty much anything by Steely Dan is worth checking out, and this is an especially tasty tune by them.
Deacon Blues for sure, but don’t sleep on Aja...production master class
Aja gets a big yes.
this vocal is uniquely mixed and so impressive - double tracked panned hard L/R with reverb & chorus panned center - gives it such depth while maintaining EQ clarity - just another production jewel among many
Gary Katz and Roger Nichols (RIP).
I remember listening to this song stoned in my early 20’s and it just was mind blowing.
Steely Dan does not make a BAD-SONG... and most of them are nefarious for being based in the seedy underworld of Life... Pleasant Music, but the subject matter of the songs has a very dark side that many are unaware of.
So right! I've been going through their catalog again and I love all the songs so much, I can't remember which ones were radio or not.
Did you ever listen to two against the world album? Really disappointing
@@leonh.kalayjian6556 I'm sure at one point I did but it obviously didn't stick with me. My favs are Gaucho, Aja, Pretzel Logic and Royal Scam. Although I love Aja a lot, Gaucho and Royal Scam are my go-tos. ✌️❤️
You've hit the proverbial nail right on the head
Lyrics typically include sex (including name of band) and drugs
As someone else commented Steely Dan just does not make bad songs. That being said i think Deacon Blues is the next song to hit for sure. One that i dont think anyone else has mentioned yet though is Babylon Sisters. It is so funky!
Yes to Babylon Sisters!
Indeed, another Purdie shuffle.
Have they done Gaucho or FM???
Listen to me now, believe me later: BODHISATTVA is the next Dan song to hit.
I agree, need to round out A&As entire SD experience
Truely a banger!
This would be a GREAT pick for one of your live Saturdays.
Yes, another favorite of mine. I think maybe they have not done or mentioned it because they don't know how to pronounce it. And who does until you hear it.
Did you just quote Hanz and Franz? Does anyone nowadays know who they were?
"Don't take Me Alive", & " My Old School" are a couple good ones to listen to.
Every band members complete contribution to the song is so full, so beautiful. No front man, just the song. True musicianship.
Any major dude with half a heart surely will tell you to do old school.
Can’t get enough of Steely Dan it seems, but who can.
Get "Citizen Steely Dan" with all the ABC and MCA Lps plus two Rare tracks.
There's never enough. I'll never tire of them.
Your next Steely Dan song should be any of the ones others here have mentioned, but I do hope you do "Aja" sooner than later. Steve Gadd laid down perhaps the greatest studio-captured outtro drum fills of the '70s on this song -- which happens to be the title track of an album that you guys should react to, too.
Agree, maybe some of the best drum work ever! Different...but great.
They really need to do the full album of Aja IMHO
100%!!!!!!!!!!
The level of skill and craftsmanship of Steely Dan songs jumps out the speakers--a precision fusion of rock, funk and jazz.
Your comment about enjoying this song still at age 45 is spot on. This is the bar set of quality music I grew up with. The point is, if you really love it this much then please, please pass it on to the next generation so it can stay alive. Never before has there been this many musicians and artists who create the music, lyrics, play all the instruments, become their own producers and promoters and then take it all on the road for us to see! It most likely won't happen again on this level we experienced in the 60's and 70's. I so appreciate watching the two of you react and hearing your positive feedback. It's like living it all over again! Thank you for all you do, hope this continues for a very long time!💕💕💕
My Old School has some "ridiculous" guitar playing, Haitian Divorce, is very sardonic, and has some "ridiculous" Wah guitar playing. Deacon Blues has great Sax, and Horns.
You can really just pick any SD song and you'll get a unique vibe. The Fez is so lyrically simple, and metaphorical, but the vibe is pure SD.
The drums on the Fez are so good its nuts.
The Fez is awesome. Underrated!
Yes, please, My Old School for the next Steely Dan song, a real banger, and sooooo represented my youth!
I agree...Peter Z!
"My Old School" ..... one of my favorites from my favorite SD album.
I've been listening to Steely Dan for decades...and I'm amazed at how special every song is everytime I hear one...so special...
The world is only now beginning to appreciate the artistry of Steely Dan. Their layered arrangements and sheer musicality is unrivaled in classic rock
There are at least 25 more songs that are amazing. Steely Dan is a gold mine
That was my FIRST thought after reading the "Do It Again" track for review... not that it's not a great song (it is!), but My Old School is just on another level. An absolute MUST listen-to for folks who dig Steely Dan... as are Aja (Steve Gadd with a legendary, iconic performance on the drums), Deacon Blues, Hey Nineteen, Show Biz Kids, Black Friday, Kid Charlemagne, The Fez, Babylon Sisters, and many others I'm forgetting.
Deacon Blues: Well worth the wait
Listened to Steely Dan in high school. Great cruising with your friends tune while catching a buzz. I still listen to this at 64 yr old. Rock on. I grew up with the best music ever. Love seeing younger people enjoy some real talent.
It's truly difficult to find a Steely Dan song that you won't like. They just don't really miss. Some songs are better than others but all seem to have their own infectious vibe. They didn't play live for the vast majority of their prime career, but they did tour at least once and you better believe I wasn't missing that one. Awesome!
My namesake... Bodhisattva is a real banger by SD, excellent guitar work.
So much, EAR CANDY in this song, it should be illegal!
I’ve only recently got into Steely Dan recently. They are one of my favorite bands now. It’s amazing the number of great songs they have recorded.
Deacon Blues is a great song. FM is a favorite of mine as well.
Wait until you really see start diving into the meanings of the songs. Their music becomes even more amazing with those unique lyrics, not just stupid love songs with the Dan.
Check out the song Here At The Western World.
One of the most underrated studio guitar solos of all time!!!
SITAR solo. Probably the only one in rock.
And who is doing the ratings exactly?
@@BuckForearm
The great Denny Dias!
@@t.c.bramblett617 Great call! Most people think this is Walter ...
I always felt the first verse was like the old west. Rancher diverts water running through his land so it devalues the next guys land cause he no longer has water runing through it. So he went out and shot and killed the guy then ran for the border but was caught and brought back for trial. The judge let him go for lack of witnesses. Sounds like the plot of an old western to me.
Such a great song and you’ll love Deacon Blues, FM, Old School, Black Friday, Hey 19, Josie, and more -- so much untapped sauce!! 😎🤟😄
“Do It Again” started it all. Back then it was so different from anything we had heard before.
Little did we know it was the beginning of the incredible legacy of Steely Dan.
Their sound is still unique and so recognizable.
What a treasure trove of specialness.
Still blowing away new generations of musical aficionados.
Thanks Walter(RIP), Donald and every incredible musician that contributed to their sound🔊🔊🔊
Just finished watching your reactions. Your “someone stole your bottled water” analysis made me laugh. We didn’t have bottled water back then.
If you told us we would be buying bottled water, we would have told you “no effing way!”
OMG that is so funny! I still remember thinking "Who would BUY water? That is ridiculous, it'll never catch on."...
You’re right about the music and I had to crack up about the bottled water. You are so right, we thought that was the most ridiculous thing we had ever heard of. Who knew?
So true!
Deacon Blues before Haitian Divorce, also have not done Bodhisattva, FM or Hey Nineteen and My Old School. So many great songs from these guys and nothing typical, really.
And at 62, their songs still please my ears as much as they did 44 years ago as a senior in high-school starting to play bass (still do regularly). Seen them in concert twice, just as good live....
"My Old School", and "Hey Nineteen" -- MUSTS for Steely Dan listening.
Personally I adore Steely Dan. Everything they did was fantastic.
Can't go wrong with Josie - pride of the neighborhood!
Lyrics:
[Verse 1]
In the mornin you go gunnin'
For the man who stole your water
And you fire till he is done in
But they catch you at the border
And the mourners are all sangin'
As they drag you by your feet
But the hangman isn't hangin'
And they put you on the street
[Chorus]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
[Verse 2]
When you know she's no high climber
Then you find your only friend
In a room with your two timer
And you're sure you're near the end
Then you love a little wild one
And she brings you only sorrow
All the time you know she's smilin'
You'll be on your knees tomorrow
[Chorus]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
[Instrumental break 2:39-4:25]
[Verse 3]
Now you swear and kick and beg us
That you're not a gambling man
Then you find you're back in Vegas
With a handle in your hand
Your black cards can make you money
So you hide them when you're able
In the land of milk and honey
You must put them on the table
[Outro]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
Thanks fof the lyrics👍🇭🇲🇭🇲🇭🇲
Dudes, This starts out as a Western movie. He didn't just steal his water bottle in the school lunchroom. He stole his effing canteen in the middle of the effing desert! That's a killing offence...
Right, it's your source for life.
Exactly! The guy stole your water. You go "gunning" for him, fight till he is "done in" (dead), you're caught at the border, they drag you into town by your feet, but they set you free due to technicalities (hangman on vacation)!
BUT: you don't learn, and so you will keep going down that losing road (do it again).
You will be betrayed by a partner, cheated on by your woman and best friend, and cheat yourself by gambling away your potential for a comfortable life.
The problem all of these young reactors have is their very narrow frames of reference. With the demise of network television and radio, the commonality of experience we all used to enjoy is gone. They haven't been forced to watch old films (Western or otherwise) and series reruns, they have their iPads, Hulu, and Netflicks.
A&A may never have seen your described scenario in a film.
The blessings of our highly technical future are also a curse. As we gain independence, we lose commonality.
@@WMalven If he hasn't seen Star Wars he sure as hell hasn't seen the Good, the Bad and the Ugly. I'm pretty sure.
@@joelbrittain6379 yeah, like HOW has he not seen Star Wars???
"Stole your water" is a reference that goes WAAAAAAAAAAAAAY back. To the Old West, when water rights to farmers and ranchers were EVERYTHING...Today's equivalent would be, I guess, someone siphoning gas out of the tank out of your car or truck.
Or stealing your canteen in Desert Storm ...
Ivy Grad 91 ... or stole your stash.
That is one of those revelations I was just talking about - learning something new about a song I've been listening to for decades. Thanks! 🤘🤩
is there gas in the car?
MY OLD SCHOOL! Great story in the lyrics!
"I remember the thirty five sweet goodbyes, when you put me on the Wolverine up to Annandale".....Banger
Haitian Divorce is one of their most underrated songs!!!
This song reminds me of the movie FM. The soundtrack for this movie was one of the best ever, full of Steely Dan, with some Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, and Joe Walsh thrown in just for fun. I think ya'll would enjoy the movie and I wore the two album set of this soundtrack out back in the day.
That was a cool movie. Marvel we need some movie reactions.
Gotta do My Old School next! Wicked guitar, insane horns, Danettes on background vocals, G. Gordon Liddy busting the boys for reefer in the lyrics - it's the works!!
Also Kid Charlemagne
2nd this
Seriously. This is their DEBUT album. 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏
Deacon Blue!
"They've got a name for the winners in the world, I want a name when I lose."
I'm going to "Do it again" Your next steely dan got to be My Old School
Anyone else love Alex’s stories, and comparisons to something in life..?
I do!😁
Loving the tangents, and ‘Alex insights’.
"Josie"..."Home At Last."..Really..Just pick 'em...Too many to mention.
This was the Steely Dan song I wanted you guys to share, and you did not disappoint. That guitar solo; the drums, bass and keyboard keeping the rhythm, amazing vocals and the vocals; it's like a well oiled metronome surrounded by musical fireworks.
I just assumed you had done this one and I'd missed it. This was MY first Steely Dan song, so if course I love it!🥰
SO glad you like it, too!
I'm really getting a kick out of you young folks enjoying music from my generation. Baby boomers did a lot of cool stuff. The 70's were a blast! I am so glad to have lived through it. I'm sorry you missed it!
Bruce Ferry As is often said though - if you remember the 60s and 70s you weren't there! LOL
You had to be there.
Yes I remember I was there but cant tell you what I did or when exactly I did it !
🙃😎☮😎🙃
@@marilyndurham738 you were definitely there!
The reality, I'm sorry to say, is that the baby boomers didn't make this music. We just benefited from it. The people Making this great stuff were born during the War. Late 30s, 40s. As much as it was the soundtrack of our youth, we (I'm 68) didn't create it. Our generation created Metal and singer-songwriters. In my opinion, we kinda dropped the ball.
I remember well, hearing this album for the first time, after "Reelin' in the Years" hit the airwaves as a single. I eagerly anticipated future releases, and I was never disappointed! What a terrific debut album "Can't Buy a Thrill" is! Steely Dan reminds me of your friend's insanely unique, beautifully appointed, immaculately kept house at the beach, or in the mountains, that you know you will never be able to attain! As far as, what Andy said, "finding songs I know I will enjoy when I'm 45" I first heard this when I was much younger than y'all and still enjoy the hell out of it at 65!!
One of my favorite underrated Dan songs is Dirty Work. One song where Donald Fagan is actually NOT the lead singer. I kind of get lost in the sauce in this one. Easy listening to with a glass of whatever your drinking. Great chorus on this song!
My favorite SD song and the reason I'm a fan.
The lovely background ladies have been doing the vocal work on this one in concert over the last decade or so. Brilliant and inspired.
"Stole your water" verse is like a western movie. You're lost in the desert, and nothing is more valuable than your water!
I saw them in concert in 1993, at the Target Center in Minneapolis, and "Do it again" was their opening song. Frickin AWESOME! Half the Doobie Brothers were playing with them! Incredible concert.
Definitely need to try Don't Take Me Alive, Pretzel Logic, King of the World, Aja, Babylon Sisters, Reeling in the Years - basically everything they've ever done!!
DIRTY WORK
MY OLD SCHOOL
FM
DEACON BLUE
HEY NINETEEN
I love how the Dan have done Dirty Work in concert over the last decade. The women backup singers, who are excellent of course, sing it. Brilliant!
Ozark Mountain Daredevils: Jackie Blue.
That's a "deep cut".
@@mark-be9mq It didn't used to be.
There was a time when it was mainstream. Lol
One of my all-time favorites. I think I've suggests that a few times lol
I grew up around those guys; their core members (Cash and Dillon) had the local band, Family Tree, prior to the Daredevils. Jackie Blue is their jewel of a song that's conversely somewhat outside of the genre of their overall playlist of good ol' down-in-the-holler tunes such as "If You Want to Get to Heaven", "Chicken Train", etc.
I'd love them to react to that; it's obscure now, kind of, but damn what a good tune.
Steely Dan is one of my favorites and this is just one of my favorite songs by Steely Dan!!! I love so many of their songs.
Steely Dan takes mankind TO SCHOOL - hypnotically
The solo done on a Coral Electric Sitar. Brilliant move. This song just speaks essence of Steely Dan.
This one is particularly important in the introduction of the band to the general public as an edited version was getting major airplay.
Fundamental indeed.
Cheers guys. Ready for the next drive time. 🥃
Guys, check out Donald Fagen's NIGHTFLY album which is a very underrated masterpiece. I enjoy you guys SO much. Kudos.
Goodbye look!!!!
I.G.Y. is pretty great.
"Stole your water" is like an old west Rancher reference where some Rancher has water rights to a water hole or section of river for his cattle and some squatter comes along and "steals" his water rights. A lot of range wars in the old west were started over "water rights"
So funny he compared it to his current world, stealing a bottle of water, even went into his mom's story about not to lie about little things. It's like no man, he took his lands water not a bottle of water lol.
Drugs... with SD if you don't know what they're talking about it's always drugs
@@jirimondo Not necessarily. In this song for example, they're talking about the bad choices we make in life, and we know they're bad choices, but still we continue to go back and do it again over and over.
The guitar solo is so skillful it almost sounds unskilled. It kind of drunkenly stumbles along and then pulls the beat (and you) along with it. What a talent in ability and composition. Such a unique sound.