Just A Friendly Reminder- When I mentioned ( Steely Ben ) he’s the guy who’s making these amazing lyric videos, I know ( Steely Dan ) is a Band/Duo I’m giving props to the Guy who is taking his time to make these lyric videos
Thank you sharing that personal story too. It is lovely that you can interpret such an amazing song with a personal connection. That is where music can enrich our lives.
Jamel_AKA_Jamal you NEED to react to Vulfpeck...if you love this funky grooves...vulfpeck will set your funk on fire. They’re a group of musicians and much like Steely dan, they also invite the best of the best to sit down and jam with them on different songs. ua-cam.com/video/b2_CJ_nx-l4/v-deo.html
If you're into the technicalities, Jeff Porcaro based 'Rosanna' on Purdie's groove. He breaks the beat down into simple(ish) terms at ua-cam.com/video/NMI81yIlT0Q/v-deo.html
I’ve been listening to SD for over 40 years and know every one of their songs which have been woven into my DNA. However, so refreshing to re-live and re-hear through Jamel with his infectious enthusiasm, emotional honesty and humble appreciation of fine music
I know...I know....after 35 yrs of SD....I sometimes forget that there are still some people in this world who haven't discovered these guys yet.... CRAZY
@@steelydougie6947 Yes - and there are still lots of amazing artists that we've not yet discovered. A while back for example, I discovered Yugi Ohno, Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, and Hiromi Uhara, and was blown away!!
The song helped me deal with the death of a friend who was a Steely Dan afficianado, who died suddenly... "... Before the fall when they wrote it on the wall When there wasn't even any Hollywood. They heard the call, And they wrote it on the wall For you and me... we understood." [01.18.2021]
The irony is once Odysseus returned "Home At Last" everything had changed. His wife is beset by suitors for his house (who are all living in his house), money and land, and his wife doesn't recognize him. Only his now grown son Telemachus (Odysseus was gone for 20 years) has an inkling who this stranger is. Nothing at "Home" is safe or the same. Steely Dan, the thinking man's band.
You know what i think of? Eminem. 8 Mile. Comes home and barely knows his own daughter. That's why I love Dan you can APPLY. But that also 𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼 to greek mythology.
The lyrics were inspired by Homer's "Odyssey" -- the most epic of epic stories. Hearing it takes me away to a sailboat adrift in the sunny Aegean, taking in the sunset amongst the ancient Greek isles...a comely Calypso serves me wine from an amphora...her tanned, demi-goddess body pins me fast to the spar as we pass the rocky shoal from which the Sirens beckon sailors to their doom.
I was just in the Greek Islands in February and went to many of the places mentioned in the Odyssey. Such an amazing part of the world. I got out of Europe just in time though..
One of my absolute faves..purdie shuffle, chuck Rainey, Larry Carlton, Walt Becker, don fagen, and .. Marty Feldman on piano. Just soo incredible Man. Just listening to you speak at the end .. I'm really sorry for your loss, big guy . 💔 Peace ✌️
@@diamonddog13 ha ha! Deliberate mistake. well spotted.. 😃 Thought it might have taken a little longer than that. You definitely know yr shit from yr shinola. ✊
Victor Feldman on piano. Marty Feldman was the actor who was "Igor" in "Young Frankenstein." I was blessed to spend an evening watching jazz with Victor Feldman and a mutual friend before her passed. What a sweet guy. His son Trevor was a great bass player.
My dad was born in 56. He bought the Steely Dan "Citizen" box set of CDs in the 90s. We listened to them a lot.. I still have them and listen to Steely Dan often.
My mom and dad both born in '46 played Steely Dan all the time! Growing up it was part of the household. My dad plays music while he's out back in the yard, when he's in his work shed etc. I love it!
Loved watching Steel Dan reviewed by you, you have such a beautiful soul, I’m so sorry to hear you lost your sister to Lupus, I have Multiple Sclerosis and possibly Lupus, auto immune disease is difficult to live with, thanks for bringing joy and good vibes to the world xx ❤️🎵🎶xx
Jamel, I hope this comment reaches you. ""Home At Last"" was possibly my older brother''s favorite Steely Dan song. It was ironic how it was. When I say this is because he took his life in the summer of 2004 at the young age of 34. I went through all the emotional steps a human being goes through losing a loved one but it''s different when you lose someone in this subject matter. I also lost my father in 2013 due to his bouts with pneumonia and his heart. I had to choose either it was going to make me stronger and wiser or give out. I had to move on and live a peaceful-minded life, knowing the both of them found their home at last. I face repercussions once in a while but I know these are test to make my heart, mind and soul stronger in life. Now, in this current time we are facing, it is another place to lose or fight against to win in the end to find the peace that can be provided. I know it will for me and as well for my loved ones. Anyways, I thought this comment would reassure you that you're not alone nor is anyone in these comments sent out or in this world. Peace out and keep reacting. Much love. - Mark
If you didn't know it, the story of "Home At Last" is Homer's Odyssey. Becker & Fagan were both literature majors at Bard College in Annendale New York, where they met. There are a lot of literary references in their lyrics.
Jamal, I must say that your vids are truly, truly special to me. I am a 58 year old black man who relates so directly to your reaction to Steely Dan's music. The difference is that I had this musical epiphany in about 1979 or so when I was 17. I picked up a cassette tape of "Can't Buy A Thrill" and have been a Steely fan ever since. My 21 year old daughter, who is a brilliant fiction writer, a poet, and composer of music, asked me why Steely Dan was obviously my favorite band....even though I listen to all types of music , and had never actually said they were my favorite. I said "because they're nearly perfect...and some of their individual songs ARE damn near perfect....and this, in my opinion, is one of those songs. Other musicians especially, recognize their brilliance. The lyrics here refer to Greek mythology and the story of Odysseus. Odysseus stuffed the ears of his crew with wax and then tied himself to the mast of his ship so he could hear the song of the sirens. Songs that drove men insane with the beauty of the sound. I've always thought that the lyrics are talking here about the sometimes self imposed stresses of the struggle with life....the struggle with just being here. Life is a siren song that is magic, beautiful, extraordinary.....but it can also break you to pieces if you let it. Deep shit that so called musicians nowadays could rightly learn something from (okay, maybe not). Anyhizzle, I love you brother, keep this up....it is an absolute bag of chips. Nubiaska
You have become part of our daily routine basically, we always watch something you are listening to at least once every day. Our souls are needing this stuff right now, thank you brother.
The guys had moved to LA from New York to start cutting albums, but always missed New York. They moved back and wrote this song nostalgically about LA. Sorry to hear about your sister, I’m sure she’d be proud of the message you’re putting out with your channel.
Brother, Deep personal message at the end. THANK YOU. In these times, many are facing some tough situations. Dealing with friends and family, not being able to let them go...or seeing them go too soon. Grieving is a very personal thing that we all go through....differently....but we all go through the same stages. I agree with you though, we have to see that sometimes in some cases, it is for the best for the person that is suffering. The best thing we can do is remember the GOOD times with that person. Just like you have said, MUSIC CAN HELP SO MUCH.
My favorite Steely Dan song, and that's saying something. I've listened to an unbelievable amount of SD over the 31 years I've been on this Earth, and this has become my favorite. Maybe not the greatest, or the most well written or what have you, but this one stays with you.
"Oh it is so much greatness in here." Young man you are so, so right. After all your life's ramblings, encounters and adventures, Home is where THE HEART is. That's the message (to ME). Your videos are like watching you go through my record collection and finding the same joys and appreciation 30 / 40 years later. And I get to listen once again too.
The great Bernard Purdie laying down that sweet Purdie shuffle on drums. Donald said Bernard came to the Aja recording sessions with a handwritten sign he planted next to his drum kit that said, "You gone done it, you done hired the BEST" haha. Classic classic Bernard!
I've been binge watching your content nonstop since yesterday and can't thank you enough man! Your content is vital to someone like me who works 12hr shifts cutting meat. Much love Jamel!
Can't blame you for sticking with Aja. You're the type of person I'd like to show this music to. You seem to get it. Most people are put off by dad rock nowadays lol again tho, check the singer's Solo Album, it's soo worth it. "Donald Fagen - The Nightfly" The Goodbye Look Maxine New Frontier IGY Green Flower Street Well really you cant miss its hit or hit
@@Blogspierre It's blocked in my country.. luckily I learned how to use the webs before people started using nothing but 3 websites. Actually found a splendid live cut, studio-like quality but with audience. What a voice, i see where you're going. As much expression as fagen, bristly but bold. Reminded me of "Summertime", mood-wise.
I feel your pain with the loss of your sister. The truth is channeling the loss into new energy for your life. You’ve mastered that, my friend. You are home at last.
Should definitely listen to “Don’t Take Me Alive,” by Steely Dan. The whole album, the Royal Scam, is great. It’s the album with “Kid Charlemagne.” Thanks for the videos! Keep up the good work 👍
Man I'm really digging watching your reactions to Steely Dan! The lyrics, the melodies, the excellent musicianship, they are like a "jazzy Pink Floyd". It's a different type of music but it takes you on a journey just the same. I hope you make it to a few more essential Steely Dan songs, such as; "The Fez", "The Royal Scam", "Time Out of Mind", "Green Earrings", "Babylon Sisters", and then there's the singer/keyboardist for Steely Dan, Donald Fagen's solo work. "Snowbound", "The New Frontier", and "Morph the Cat". You are one of the most entertaining reviewers on UA-cam. Keep up the great work!
Jamel, I'm not sure if that's the meaning Fagen and Becker had when they wrote the song, but we get to decide what the songs mean to us. I love your interpretation. And next... Doctor Wu!
I'm so glad you reacted to this. I only discovered this song about 2 weeks ago. I dug into Steely more because of this channel. By far my favorite SD song. Masterpiece.
Bernard Purdie produces one the the most economic drum parts anywhere from anyone ...... every drum/ cymbal hit serves multiple rolls in this perfect shuffle's rhythmic structure ....... those perfect economical breaks ....... shear genius !!...... btw I think the song is about the return to New York after time spent in California ...... NY being their home at last !!
As soon as I saw this reaction I clicked on it. This is my favorite song from the album. Thank you for sharing your story about your sister, my condolences to you. Thank you for being who you are and for doing what you do. At least for a short time I can forget about being stuck at home. Peace and good health to you brother.
I see what you mean. My mom passed away back in Dec 26, 2019. She has dementia, arthritis and diabetes. Missed her so much but No more pain or suffering. She is home at last with God. Thanks for the reaction.
Jamel, I'm about 15 years older than you but, you remind me of my uncles. When I was a kid, they listened to and loved Steely Dan as well. And your demeanor is very much like theirs. ... Thanks for the react and thanks for reminding me of them. Be well!
Until further notice this has been my planned funeral song for years, aligns with my spiritual aims, references Greek epic poetry; my personal favorite [because I, like Oddyseus, am the cleverest bastard in antiquity.] Purdie shuffle is just the icing on the cake.
Jamal thank you for being such a great person. I found this UA-cam channel and here I stay. Steely Dan -Babylon Sisters. Great song with what you and I both enjoy about Steely Dan music 🎶. I look forward to seeing your messages and enjoying the journeys! Cheers to ya 🍻
You can see him trying to learn every word of the lyrics on the first time hearing the the song and drink it all in. You can't, so you listen over and over again.
I love this Album so much, since it came out in 1977, Aja is this kind of music, i can always hear, it stand the test of time. A truly classic album, with so many exellent musician on it.🇩🇪🇩🇪🇩🇪
The actual prompt for the lyrics is a sort of homesickness for New York after Walter and Donald moved out to California. Its also a literary nod to Homer's Odyssey. They were pretty clever composers and songwriters.
Odysseus wanted to hear the Sirens ,whose songs have made ships crashed into the rocks, so he had his men tied him to the mast while everyone stuffed wax in their ears.
In these times of isolation, channels like yours, even though we aren’t actually face-to-face, are much needed safety valves to ease the pressure of solitude. Not only do you entertain but you offer a mental health service that some may not even be aware that they need.
Steely Dan is like an anti-anxiety pill...as soon As I start any song, all my cares are gone...🙏🏻 Oh and the making of video is great...to see the guys that played those sounds...🙏🏻
Turned on to Steely Dan during my freshman year at University of Virginia - 1974 by my roomate who was a big fan. Still enjoying the musical and lyrical genious of Donald Fagen and the late Walter Becker. What a performance by Bernard Purdie playing the "Purdie Shuffle" on the Home At Last" track.
In my opinion, every song they ever did is a masterpiece, but this song, in particular, grabbed my psyche & remains my favorite one. I feel the lyrics deeply, as if written for me to enjoy, for you to enjoy, that's the joy of it. This state of emotion is one I've felt before, and likely will feel again. When the danger on the rocks has surely passed, still, I remain tied to the mast; magical, my friends, absolutely magical.
When I was about 17 or so, my dad took me to see Donald Fagen when he was on his "Morph the Cat" tour. He played a bunch of Steely Dan songs, of course, and it was amazing. I'd grown up listening to the 'Dan all my life, but it was usually compilations or 'best of's. We never had just a straight album. So he played a bunch of songs that I already knew and loved, and then he played THIS and I started crying because it was so powerful and beautiful and I didn't even know it existed. And now whenever I hear this song I think about how magical it was to be there with my family, sharing something so wonderful, because my DAD who had been listening to 'Dan for 40ish years at that point had also never heard the song. We both got to hear it for the first time together, and it's powerful every time. It transports me back to that time and place instantly.
Thank you Jamel, you are a fine listening companion, I love The Dan amongst many, continue on in Donald's solo stuff and later Dan albums, all good , I mean really good! Thanks also for sharing your thoughts on mortality especially in these days,vI couldn't do what you do and I appreciate it. Keep going.
This song was them being homesick. Though they were from the East coast,the album was recorded in L.A.. One of my favorite songs to "mellow" out to (if you know what I mean😉). The whole album is essentially many stories tied together. It's an adventure you have to go on. Like Pink Floyd's "Dark side of the moon",you have to start from one end of the album to the other. It's a journey.
MY BROTHER!! Thank you for doing this song!! ....I'm age 55 and Steely Dan-Aja (the album where "Home At Last" comes from) is ever steady becoming my all time favorite album! I first heard the album in 1979 when I was 15 and in 9th grade. It struck me in a very powerful way back then and hasn't quit yet and never will. I listen to the Steely Dan-Aja album twice a week on average and I NEVER grow tired of the record! If you like "Home At Last", that ain't nuthin'! You gotta hear the whole album from first note to last. You need to understand not only the perfect songs that are on this album, BUT the musicians! DAMN!! some of the greatest of all time laid it down with Steely Dan on the Aja album. This song "Home At Last" is only the tip of the iceberg, baby! Thanks again!!
Donald Fagen and Walter Becker two of the most creative geniuses in rock-blues-jazz history. Becker passed away three years ago. Bard College buddies and the rest is history. Fabulous sound in all they did. WOW!
Just A Friendly Reminder- When I mentioned ( Steely Ben ) he’s the guy who’s making these amazing lyric videos, I know ( Steely Dan ) is a Band/Duo I’m giving props to the Guy who is taking his time to make these lyric videos
Go Buckeyes🙌🏾
Dude I love your videos!
The Purdy Shuffle on drums ✊✌
Thank you sharing that personal story too. It is lovely that you can interpret such an amazing song with a personal connection. That is where music can enrich our lives.
Jamel_AKA_Jamal you NEED to react to Vulfpeck...if you love this funky grooves...vulfpeck will set your funk on fire. They’re a group of musicians and much like Steely dan, they also invite the best of the best to sit down and jam with them on different songs. ua-cam.com/video/b2_CJ_nx-l4/v-deo.html
Steely Dan, the most complex, talented and mesmerizing band of all-time.
I can’t disagree with this.
Yes
Couldn't have put it better myself.
I would say Jethro Tull, Yes, Genesis share that position.
Well said and true
This is the best Steely Dan song of all time and I will die on this hill.
The great Bernard Purdie on drums, giving us that great Purdie Shuffle!
You can't find me a single person who can get thru a song with the Purdie shuffle and not bounce along to it.
And Chuck Rainey's bass really bringing it home.
If you're into the technicalities, Jeff Porcaro based 'Rosanna' on Purdie's groove. He breaks the beat down into simple(ish) terms at
ua-cam.com/video/NMI81yIlT0Q/v-deo.html
Led Zeppelins Fool in the rain features Bonham doing the Purdue shuffle.
@@kilika1123 technically not correct. Home at last (Purdie) & Fool in the rain (Bonham) are slightly different 😬
I’ve been listening to SD for over 40 years and know every one of their songs which have been woven into my DNA. However, so refreshing to re-live and re-hear through Jamel with his infectious enthusiasm, emotional honesty and humble appreciation of fine music
Yes woven into my DNA , and has been a part of my deepest romances when ai was a teenager.
I know...I know....after 35 yrs of SD....I sometimes forget that there are still some people in this world who haven't discovered these guys yet.... CRAZY
@@steelydougie6947 Yes - and there are still lots of amazing artists that we've not yet discovered. A while back for example, I discovered Yugi Ohno, Tokyo Ska Paradise Orchestra, and Hiromi Uhara, and was blown away!!
Legendary performance on drums by Bernard Purdie, doing his signature Purdie Shuffle. Thats is all-time stuff right there.
Really tasty drumming
hell yeah josh!
Purdie is a legend. A bud used to take lessons with him in the '80's. He claimed to have played on Beatles records. I can't say.
Donn M It’s true - he did.
Or as Bernard would call it: "BOOM-BOOM...buh-duh-PAP-buh-duh-PAP-buh-duh..."
Check out "The Caves of Altamira." Most underrated Steely Dan song ever.
The song helped me deal with the death of a friend who was a Steely Dan afficianado, who died suddenly...
"... Before the fall when they wrote it on the wall
When there wasn't even any Hollywood.
They heard the call,
And they wrote it on the wall
For you and me... we understood."
[01.18.2021]
The Caves of Altamira are in Cantabria , Spain. Was Donald anytime there? who knows.
@@ttimgents what a legend your friend was.
Oh yeah, I agree
Absolutely, my favorite SD song.
The irony is once Odysseus returned "Home At Last" everything had changed. His wife is beset by suitors for his house (who are all living in his house), money and land, and his wife doesn't recognize him. Only his now grown son Telemachus (Odysseus was gone for 20 years) has an inkling who this stranger is. Nothing at "Home" is safe or the same. Steely Dan, the thinking man's band.
Thank you
"Who wrote that tired sea song?"
Hel Gar He could have also be using the lyrics for a personal relationship
You know what i think of?
Eminem. 8 Mile. Comes home and barely knows his own daughter.
That's why I love Dan you can APPLY. But that also 𝓪𝓹𝓹𝓵𝓲𝓮𝓼 to greek mythology.
His dog recognizes him..runs & jumps up onto him in an embrace..& dies.
Ahhh to see more Steely Dan with Jamal's reactions makes my day.
It really does tho :D :D
mine too. and by proxy, my girlfriend's too.
You won't get that reaction from a Brittney Spears song ..nope
Same here , he's become a huge SD for life 🙌
Nobody better. Ever. I saw someone comment "Steely Dan is your favorite band's favorite band." Couldn't say it any better.
The man, Bernard Purdie on drums!
Yes Yes! Mr. Shuffle I call him.
I just put a similar comment up, then I scroll down to see that you beat me to it. Haha
You done it. You done hired the hitmaker!
He’s so Purdie
I bet I've heard this song 4000 times in my life and it brought tears to my eyes 3900 of them. It's perfection.
Check.
I love that you have fallen in love with Steely Dan....xo!
Fagan is like the 1970s Mozart. A prodigy who writes music, makes music, produces music, and demands perfect music.
The lyrics were inspired by Homer's "Odyssey" -- the most epic of epic stories.
Hearing it takes me away to a sailboat adrift in the sunny Aegean, taking in the sunset amongst the ancient Greek isles...a comely Calypso serves me wine from an amphora...her tanned, demi-goddess body pins me fast to the spar as we pass the rocky shoal from which the Sirens beckon sailors to their doom.
I was just in the Greek Islands in February and went to many of the places mentioned in the Odyssey. Such an amazing part of the world. I got out of Europe just in time though..
Knowing the story behind the lyrics makes me appreciate the song more now. This was always my less favorite cut on Aja.
Nicely written!...Aloha O’e!
Fagan was an English Lit major at Bard.
Lyrics were inspired by Ulysses
I love the whole "Aja" album from start to finish. A must with some high quality headphones.
One of my absolute faves..purdie shuffle, chuck Rainey, Larry Carlton, Walt Becker, don fagen, and .. Marty Feldman on piano.
Just soo incredible
Man. Just listening to you speak at the end .. I'm really sorry for your loss, big guy . 💔 Peace ✌️
Victor Feldman. Marty was the comedian with the eyes. I-gor.
@@diamonddog13 ha ha! Deliberate mistake. well spotted.. 😃
Thought it might have taken a little longer than that. You definitely know yr shit from yr shinola. ✊
Victor Feldman on piano. Marty Feldman was the actor who was "Igor" in "Young Frankenstein." I was blessed to spend an evening watching jazz with Victor Feldman and a mutual friend before her passed. What a sweet guy. His son Trevor was a great bass player.
Mind you, Marty Feldman the comedian did do the odd song e.g. ua-cam.com/video/zwV9fQ8eAkg/v-deo.html
Abby Normal 🤪
This is the textbook definition of "soulful". Nothing else even comes close.
Next you need to review "The Royal Scam." It's a Steely Dan song that's super underrated but you'll love it.
One of their strongest jams Imo!
Heads up, I'll keep asking for 'The Royal Scam' til you do!
This is the album I'm hoping you will do a full review.
STEELY DAN'S THE ROYAL SCAM is as great and underrated as this song has been....
Whole album is amazing. Favorite Steely Dan album.
Steely Dan is the yardstick to measure the rest. Such an important display of creation for decades.
Check out "Don't take me alive" by them.
I've been saying this since he started doing the Steely Dan reactions. I guess he's saving the best for last.
Yeah me too, one of my favs.
Best guitar intro ever.....
this is definitely top tier on all levels
One of my favorites.
The Steely Dan rabbit hole is actually a deep cave chock full of bright and shiny musical, and lyrical, treasures.
I have fond memories of listening to this album with my dad when I was a young child....45yrs later and Im still listening to Steely Dan.
I share this with you my friend
My dad was born in 56. He bought the Steely Dan "Citizen" box set of CDs in the 90s. We listened to them a lot.. I still have them and listen to Steely Dan often.
@@nfinzer22 Great story. I appreciate it.
My mom and dad both born in '46 played Steely Dan all the time! Growing up it was part of the household. My dad plays music while he's out back in the yard, when he's in his work shed etc. I love it!
Dad raised ya right.
Jamel, sorry about your sister. Your message from the heart about her and how this music connects us all was heart warming. Thanks for sharing.
Give a listen to Steely Dan's "Time out of Mind" - you're gonna love it, it has Michael McDonald on backup vocals
Yes i forgot about that one its a great song
The other interesting cameo on that track is Mark Knopfler.
I never knew Knopfler was on that song, too, that's awesome
Also I believe Patti Austin is on backup wat a lineup
@@dtsdigitalden5023 - Knopfler only plays on the outro of the song...about the last 30 seconds. Larry Carlton plays all the other parts.
Loved watching Steel Dan reviewed by you, you have such a beautiful soul, I’m so sorry to hear you lost your sister to Lupus, I have Multiple Sclerosis and possibly Lupus, auto immune disease is difficult to live with, thanks for bringing joy and good vibes to the world xx ❤️🎵🎶xx
Jamel, I hope this comment reaches you. ""Home At Last"" was possibly my older brother''s favorite Steely Dan song. It was ironic how it was. When I say this is because he took his life in the summer of 2004 at the young age of 34. I went through all the emotional steps a human being goes through losing a loved one but it''s different when you lose someone in this subject matter. I also lost my father in 2013 due to his bouts with pneumonia and his heart. I had to choose either it was going to make me stronger and wiser or give out. I had to move on and live a peaceful-minded life, knowing the both of them found their home at last. I face repercussions once in a while but I know these are test to make my heart, mind and soul stronger in life. Now, in this current time we are facing, it is another place to lose or fight against to win in the end to find the peace that can be provided. I know it will for me and as well for my loved ones. Anyways, I thought this comment would reassure you that you're not alone nor is anyone in these comments sent out or in this world. Peace out and keep reacting. Much love. - Mark
peace brother and stay strong
💜💜💜
Wishing you beauty, peace and strength today and everyday💚💚
🙏🙏🙏in your brothers memory. Your brother may have been to sensitive for this at times cold and heartless world.
If you didn't know it, the story of "Home At Last" is Homer's Odyssey. Becker & Fagan were both literature majors at Bard College in Annendale New York, where they met. There are a lot of literary references in their lyrics.
If you ever wondered what "groove" means, just listen to this. This is groove in it's purest form :)
Red X AAAAAMEN!!!!!
Red X...So well put Yo!
Just can’t get enuff of the the Dan!! You can hear every instrument & every note - every time...
Purdie shuffle!
Bernard and Chuck layin it down.
"Oh it is so much greatness in here." - you said it.
Idk why no one has suggested this one bc it’s one of my personal favorites : glamour profession
Man, what a song! Love the lyrics to that one.
I agree! Awesome lyrics!!!
Underrated. Great song. Love the beat and the feel.
Also my personal favorite of theirs, Gaucho was my first album by them.
ditto! glamour profession is my 3rd favorite steely dan song, after aja and then pearl of the quarter.
Jamal,
I must say that your vids are truly, truly special to me. I am a 58 year old black man who relates so directly to your reaction to Steely Dan's music. The difference is that I had this musical epiphany in about 1979 or so when I was 17. I picked up a cassette tape of "Can't Buy A Thrill" and have been a Steely fan ever since.
My 21 year old daughter, who is a brilliant fiction writer, a poet, and composer of music, asked me why Steely Dan was obviously my favorite band....even though I listen to all types of music , and had never actually said they were my favorite. I said "because they're nearly perfect...and some of their individual songs ARE damn near perfect....and this, in my opinion, is one of those songs. Other musicians especially, recognize their brilliance.
The lyrics here refer to Greek mythology and the story of Odysseus. Odysseus stuffed the ears of his crew with wax and then tied himself to the mast of his ship so he could hear the song of the sirens. Songs that drove men insane with the beauty of the sound.
I've always thought that the lyrics are talking here about the sometimes self imposed stresses of the struggle with life....the struggle with just being here. Life is a siren song that is magic, beautiful, extraordinary.....but it can also break you to pieces if you let it. Deep shit that so called musicians nowadays could rightly learn something from (okay, maybe not).
Anyhizzle, I love you brother, keep this up....it is an absolute bag of chips.
Nubiaska
One of my favorite lines....."She serves me smooth Retsina....she keeps me safe and warm.....it's just the calm before the storm"......so GOOD!!!
Yup, she's a b*tch and he's tired of it. Lol.
I got one that's a snot like that for no reason, too.
I would love to hear Steely again for the first time . best band on planet!!!!
The caves of altamira
One of my fav sd tracks, that and gaucho
Tony Gorham You have good taste my friend. those two are my favs too
Yup📈📈📈
Yes!!!
Now that’s a gold standard song
JRM Aja was deemed Steely Dan's most impressive work to date, in which Walter Becker (RIP) and Donald Fagan won the Grammy.
With all this division in the world. You use the music to bring us together. I think you are awesome keep it up.
You have become part of our daily routine basically, we always watch something you are listening to at least once every day. Our souls are needing this stuff right now, thank you brother.
This is best Steely Dan song ever written IMHO. Purdie, Rainey, Feldman, Carlton, Becker and Fagen.
The guys had moved to LA from New York to start cutting albums, but always missed New York. They moved back and wrote this song nostalgically about LA. Sorry to hear about your sister, I’m sure she’d be proud of the message you’re putting out with your channel.
Just never tire of their music. As close to perfection as you can get.
Yes you are probably right......
Brother, Deep personal message at the end. THANK YOU. In these times, many are facing some tough situations. Dealing with friends and family, not being able to let them go...or seeing them go too soon. Grieving is a very personal thing that we all go through....differently....but we all go through the same stages. I agree with you though, we have to see that sometimes in some cases, it is for the best for the person that is suffering. The best thing we can do is remember the GOOD times with that person. Just like you have said, MUSIC CAN HELP SO MUCH.
"Doctor Wu" from Katy Lied is another Steely Dan deep cut.
100%
My favorite Steely Dan song, and that's saying something. I've listened to an unbelievable amount of SD over the 31 years I've been on this Earth, and this has become my favorite. Maybe not the greatest, or the most well written or what have you, but this one stays with you.
This song is awesome.
My favorite of this band
Steely Dan forever
"Oh it is so much greatness in here." Young man you are so, so right. After all your life's ramblings, encounters and adventures, Home is where THE HEART is. That's the message (to ME). Your videos are like watching you go through my record collection and finding the same joys and appreciation 30 / 40 years later. And I get to listen once again too.
Very sweetly expressed....
The great Bernard Purdie laying down that sweet Purdie shuffle on drums. Donald said Bernard came to the Aja recording sessions with a handwritten sign he planted next to his drum kit that said, "You gone done it, you done hired the BEST" haha.
Classic classic Bernard!
I've been binge watching your content nonstop since yesterday and can't thank you enough man! Your content is vital to someone like me who works 12hr shifts cutting meat. Much love Jamel!
Now that you’ve heard one of the best songs ever created. Welcome to the first day of the rest of your life.
My man Jamel, please listan to Hall and Oates "she's gone " live 1976. A stellar performance!!
1 of my Fav SD... So sorry for your loss man. On the pet side, I have helped over 300 animals in the past 26 yrs and it is never easy saying goodbye.
Can't blame you for sticking with Aja.
You're the type of person I'd like to show this music to. You seem to get it. Most people are put off by dad rock nowadays lol
again tho, check the singer's Solo Album, it's soo worth it. "Donald Fagen - The Nightfly"
The Goodbye Look
Maxine
New Frontier
IGY
Green Flower Street
Well really you cant miss its hit or hit
KAUSTIK Maxine is masterful.
@@Blogspierre The sheer fact that it's basically a jazz standard now.. one of the latest for sure
KAUSTIK Search for “Maxine” by Oscar Brown Jr. It predates Fagen by nearly 20 years, but it’s also marvelous.
KAUSTIK ua-cam.com/video/RMuP3aUk_xA/v-deo.html
@@Blogspierre It's blocked in my country.. luckily I learned how to use the webs before people started using nothing but 3 websites. Actually found a splendid live cut, studio-like quality but with audience. What a voice, i see where you're going. As much expression as fagen, bristly but bold. Reminded me of "Summertime", mood-wise.
I feel your pain with the loss of your sister. The truth is channeling the loss into new energy for your life. You’ve mastered that, my friend. You are home at last.
When you get a little older you'll see this is great driving music!
These men captured and documented american culture of the 70's in a way that mark twain did of the late 19th century.
Should definitely listen to “Don’t Take Me Alive,” by Steely Dan. The whole album, the Royal Scam, is great. It’s the album with “Kid Charlemagne.” Thanks for the videos! Keep up the good work 👍
I agree. Royal Scam would be a pleasure for Jamel, it's another of many masterpieces from the Dan.
Come on Jamel it's time brother 👊
Listen to more from Can’t Buy A Thrill, Countdown To Ecstasy and Pretzel Logic!
I second that.
Don't take me alive...great song.
This song makes the deaf dance...
One of my all-time favorite Dan songs
Awesome! I've never heard that phrase. Consider it stolen!
They do at my house because I like a LOT of bass. You can't ignore it. It's not overwhelming, but it's like a late Santana record. Lol
Man I'm really digging watching your reactions to Steely Dan! The lyrics, the melodies, the excellent musicianship, they are like a "jazzy Pink Floyd". It's a different type of music but it takes you on a journey just the same. I hope you make it to a few more essential Steely Dan songs, such as; "The Fez", "The Royal Scam", "Time Out of Mind", "Green Earrings", "Babylon Sisters", and then there's the singer/keyboardist for Steely Dan, Donald Fagen's solo work. "Snowbound", "The New Frontier", and "Morph the Cat". You are one of the most entertaining reviewers on UA-cam. Keep up the great work!
New Frontier is like hearing the old SD. Too cool
Steely Dan , musical perfection on so many levels. One of my favorite musicians is the magnificent Cornelius Bumphus on sax, may he RIP.
Check out Angry Eyes by Loggins and Messina!! You can't resist the FUNK!
Michael Lybarger not to mention This Is It with Michael McDonald!
.... phenomenal song by these guys
Jamel you have a huge heart! Speaking for myself I totally appreciate what you're doing and I am very sure everyone else is also. Thank you my friend.
Jamel, I'm not sure if that's the meaning Fagen and Becker had when they wrote the song, but we get to decide what the songs mean to us. I love your interpretation. And next... Doctor Wu!
At least one of the very best Steely Dan songs ever....right up there with the one, the only, DON’T TAKE ME ALIVE!!!!!
Check out Steely Dan’s “Doctor Wu”.
I have sung along to Phil Woods' sax solo more times than I can count. Great suggestion.
Heatbreaking song
Raquel Wiley The life of anyone addicted to drugs is truly sad.
Such a good song.
I Second this! Also rose darling
That Purdie Shuffle man, can’t get enough…and Steely Dan capture it so well in their legendary mixing.
"Glamour Profession" by Steely Dan.... seriously
Local boys will spend a quarter , just to find that silver pearl
That's the one to play
Get on it bro
THIS
@@mysphthejazzien10 "living hard will take it's toll".....
I think you would LOVE "The Caves of Altamira" from the "Royal Scam" Steely Dan album, I sure do!
I love that song, one of my favorites!
One more shout out for Caves of Altamira--LOVE that horn arrangement!
I'm so glad you reacted to this. I only discovered this song about 2 weeks ago. I dug into Steely more because of this channel. By far my favorite SD song. Masterpiece.
Bernard Purdie produces one the the most economic drum parts anywhere from anyone ...... every drum/ cymbal hit serves multiple rolls in this perfect shuffle's rhythmic structure ....... those perfect economical breaks ....... shear genius !!...... btw I think the song is about the return to New York after time spent in California ...... NY being their home at last !!
As soon as I saw this reaction I clicked on it. This is my favorite song from the album. Thank you for sharing your story about your sister, my condolences to you. Thank you for being who you are and for doing what you do. At least for a short time I can forget about being stuck at home. Peace and good health to you brother.
As a musician, their pursuit of perfection must have made it difficult. As a listener, it was worth every ounce of it!!
I always liked Steely Dan, but you've helped me appreciate 'em even more. Thanks.
I see what you mean. My mom passed away back in Dec 26, 2019. She has dementia, arthritis and diabetes. Missed her so much but No more pain or suffering. She is home at last with God. Thanks for the reaction.
Jamel, I'm about 15 years older than you but, you remind me of my uncles. When I was a kid, they listened to and loved Steely Dan as well. And your demeanor is very much like theirs. ... Thanks for the react and thanks for reminding me of them. Be well!
Until further notice this has been my planned funeral song for years, aligns with my spiritual aims, references Greek epic poetry; my personal favorite [because I, like Oddyseus, am the cleverest bastard in antiquity.] Purdie shuffle is just the icing on the cake.
Jamal thank you for being such a great person. I found this UA-cam channel and here I stay. Steely Dan -Babylon Sisters. Great song with what you and I both enjoy about Steely Dan music 🎶. I look forward to seeing your messages and enjoying the journeys! Cheers to ya 🍻
You can see him trying to learn every word of the lyrics on the first time hearing the the song and drink it all in. You can't, so you listen over and over again.
Do Babylon Sisters or Bodhisattva next!
Bodhisattva.
Edit Man Black Friday on Friday
Bodhisattva FTW
This this THIS!!
I love this Album so much, since it came out in 1977, Aja is this kind of music, i can always hear, it stand the test of time. A truly classic album, with so many exellent musician on it.🇩🇪🇩🇪🇩🇪
Just realized you haven’t done Gaucho, one of their best songs!! It’s the only song that’s ever made me cry just because of how good the music is
Classic and still brings a tear to the eye.
I wonder how many Steely Dan fans you’ve created these last couple of weeks. I love that band
The actual prompt for the lyrics is a sort of homesickness for New York after Walter and Donald moved out to California. Its also a literary nod to Homer's Odyssey. They were pretty clever composers and songwriters.
Anyone else get that dopamine hit/goosebump combo? So good.
Tre Mo yes, every time. Steely Dan gets me high every time.
Steely Dan...masters of the groove
This song actually refers to The Odyssey, in case you wanted to know
Survey says ....number one answer!
I did not know that.
Odysseus wanted to hear the Sirens ,whose songs have made ships crashed into the rocks, so he had his men tied him to the mast while everyone stuffed wax in their ears.
This is Funk music
From another planet
In a time machine.
One of the Best bands ever , song composure is top notch. Great musicians
In these times of isolation, channels like yours, even though we aren’t actually face-to-face, are much needed safety valves to ease the pressure of solitude. Not only do you entertain but you offer a mental health service that some may not even be aware that they need.
So very true. 💜 Well said... thanks.
I totally second that 🤟😜
Don’t take me alive
I agree, great song. "Got a case of Miller Light, I could hold out here all night." Just a suggestion to adapt the song to our current circumstances.
A special tune with Larry Carlton sailing on guitar from a couple of seconds in. As fresh to me today as the day it came out.
Steely Dan is like an anti-anxiety pill...as soon As I start any song, all my cares are gone...🙏🏻
Oh and the making of video is great...to see the guys that played those sounds...🙏🏻
It is one of their most exquisite tracks, one for the fans.
Turned on to Steely Dan during my freshman year at University of Virginia - 1974 by my roomate who was a big fan. Still enjoying the musical and lyrical genious of Donald Fagen and the late Walter Becker. What a performance by Bernard Purdie playing the "Purdie Shuffle" on the Home At Last" track.
In my opinion, every song they ever did is a masterpiece, but this song, in particular, grabbed my psyche & remains my favorite one. I feel the lyrics deeply, as if written for me to enjoy, for you to enjoy, that's the joy of it. This state of emotion is one I've felt before, and likely will feel again. When the danger on the rocks has surely passed, still, I remain tied to the mast; magical, my friends, absolutely magical.
Yes this song can totally bring you to tears sometimes ❤. Powerful song.
When I was about 17 or so, my dad took me to see Donald Fagen when he was on his "Morph the Cat" tour. He played a bunch of Steely Dan songs, of course, and it was amazing. I'd grown up listening to the 'Dan all my life, but it was usually compilations or 'best of's. We never had just a straight album. So he played a bunch of songs that I already knew and loved, and then he played THIS and I started crying because it was so powerful and beautiful and I didn't even know it existed. And now whenever I hear this song I think about how magical it was to be there with my family, sharing something so wonderful, because my DAD who had been listening to 'Dan for 40ish years at that point had also never heard the song. We both got to hear it for the first time together, and it's powerful every time. It transports me back to that time and place instantly.
Thank you Jamel, you are a fine listening companion, I love The Dan amongst many, continue on in Donald's solo stuff and later Dan albums, all good , I mean really good! Thanks also for sharing your thoughts on mortality especially in these days,vI couldn't do what you do and I appreciate it. Keep going.
This song was them being homesick. Though they were from the East coast,the album was recorded in L.A.. One of my favorite songs to "mellow" out to (if you know what I mean😉). The whole album is essentially many stories tied together. It's an adventure you have to go on. Like Pink Floyd's "Dark side of the moon",you have to start from one end of the album to the other. It's a journey.
MY BROTHER!! Thank you for doing this song!! ....I'm age 55 and Steely Dan-Aja (the album where "Home At Last" comes from) is ever steady becoming my all time favorite album! I first heard the album in 1979 when I was 15 and in 9th grade. It struck me in a very powerful way back then and hasn't quit yet and never will. I listen to the Steely Dan-Aja album twice a week on average and I NEVER grow tired of the record! If you like "Home At Last", that ain't nuthin'! You gotta hear the whole album from first note to last. You need to understand not only the perfect songs that are on this album, BUT the musicians! DAMN!! some of the greatest of all time laid it down with Steely Dan on the Aja album. This song "Home At Last" is only the tip of the iceberg, baby! Thanks again!!
Donald Fagen and Walter Becker two of the most creative geniuses in rock-blues-jazz history. Becker passed away three years ago. Bard College buddies and the rest is history. Fabulous sound in all they did.
WOW!
You gotta do "Caves of Altamira" my dude, you'll dig