Album Information:
Album ID: 9741
About Steely Dan:
Steely Dan is an American rock band that was formed in 1971 by two musicians, Walter Becker and Donald Fagen. The band's music style is a blend of various genres, including rock, jazz, and pop. Steely Dan is known for their intricate arrangements, intelligent lyrics, and meticulous production techniques.
Walter Becker and Donald Fagen first met at Bard College in New York in the late 60s. They both shared a common interest in music and began playing together in various bands. After college, they moved to Brooklyn and began writing music for other artists. In 1972, the duo released their debut album, 'Can't Buy a Thrill,' which became an instant success. The album featured hit songs such as 'Do It Again' and 'Reelin' in the Years.'
Over the next few years, Steely Dan released several more successful albums, including 'Pretzel Logic,' 'Katy Lied,' and 'The Royal Scam.' During this period, the band's lineup was constantly changing, with Becker and Fagen being the only consistent members. They were joined at various times by notable musicians such as Jeff Porcaro, Michael McDonald, and Larry Carlton.
In 1977, Steely Dan released their most successful album, 'Aja.' The album featured hit songs such as 'Deacon Blues,' 'Peg,' and 'Josie.' 'Aja' was a critical and commercial success, and it earned the band several Grammy Awards.
After 'Aja,' Steely Dan went on hiatus for several years, during which time Becker and Fagen both pursued solo projects. The band reunited in 1980 to release the album 'Gaucho,' which was another commercial success. However, shortly after the album's release, Becker and Fagen decided to disband Steely Dan.
In the years since, Becker and Fagen have reunited several times to tour and release new music. They have also collaborated with other artists and have continued to be highly respected within the music industry.
In terms of their musical style, Steely Dan's music is characterized by its complex harmonies, intricate arrangements, and jazz-influenced chord progressions. The band's lyrics often contain cryptic references and allusions to literature and pop culture.
Overall, Steely Dan is regarded as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the 1970s. Their music has influenced countless other artists and continues to be appreciated by fans around the world.
About the album Katy Lied:
Katy Lied is the fourth studio album by the American rock band Steely Dan, released in 1975. It is known for its tight harmonies, intricate arrangements, and witty lyrics. The album features some of the band's most popular songs including 'Black Friday,' 'Doctor Wu,' and 'Bad Sneakers.'
The album kicks off with 'Black Friday,' a song that features driving guitar riffs and strong percussion. The lyrics of the song describe the events of a stock market crash and the aftermath that follows. The next track, 'Bad Sneakers,' features a smooth rhythm and poetic lyrics about a woman with a dangerous past.
'Rose Darling' is a jazzy ballad that showcases the band's instrumental skills and attention to detail. 'Daddy Don't Live in That New York City No More' explores the contrast between the glitz and glamour of New York City and the realities of poverty and struggle that many people face there.
The standout track on Katy Lied is 'Doctor Wu,' which features captivating melodies and a haunting, dreamlike quality. The lyrics of the song describe a man's journey to find the elusive and mysterious Doctor Wu, who may be able to help him forget a failed relationship.
Other tracks on the album include 'Everyone's Gone to the Movies,' a tongue-in-cheek critique of Hollywood culture, and 'Your Gold Teeth II,' a jazzy exploration of the human psyche and the ways in which people try to cope with their problems.
Overall, Katy Lied is a masterful album that demonstrates the musical prowess and lyrical wit of Steely Dan. Its timeless appeal continues to captivate and inspire audiences today.
Members:
Steely Dan was formed in 1972 by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. The band has had many members over the years, but the key members are:
1. Donald Fagen:
Donald Fagen was born on January 10, 1948, in Passaic, New Jersey. He is the lead vocalist and keyboardist for Steely Dan. Fagen studied literature and music at Bard College and later attended the Manhattan School of Music. Before forming Steely Dan, he played in several bands, including The Leather Canary. Fagen co-wrote most of the songs for Steely Dan and is known for his distinctive voice.
2. Walter Becker:
Walter Becker was born on February 20, 1950, in Queens, New York. He was the lead guitarist, bassist, and co-songwriter for Steely Dan. Becker attended Bard College and played in several bands before forming Steely Dan with Fagen. In addition to his work with Steely Dan, he was also a successful producer and worked with artists such as China Crisis and Rickie Lee Jones. Becker died on September 3, 2017, due to complications from surgery.
3. Jeff Baxter:
Jeff Baxter was born on December 13, 1948, in Washington, D.C. He played guitar for Steely Dan from 1972 to 1974. Baxter later joined the Doobie Brothers, where he played guitar and helped produce some of the band's albums. He also worked as a session musician for several other artists and is known for his work as a defense consultant.
4. Denny Dias:
Denny Dias was born on May 18, 1946, in Boston, Massachusetts. He played guitar for Steely Dan from 1972 to 1976. Dias played on several of the band's albums, including 'Can't Buy a Thrill,' 'Countdown to Ecstasy,' and 'Pretzel Logic.' After leaving Steely Dan, he worked as a studio musician and played on albums by artists such as Boz Scaggs and Stephen Stills.
5. Jim Hodder:
Jim Hodder was born on April 17, 1947, in Boston, Massachusetts. He was the drummer for Steely Dan from 1972 to 1974. Hodder played on several of the band's albums, including 'Can't Buy a Thrill,' 'Countdown to Ecstasy,' and 'Pretzel Logic.' After leaving Steely Dan, he worked as a session musician for several other artists, including Carly Simon and Martha Reeves.
6. David Palmer:
David Palmer was born on May 31, 1941, in Buffalo, New York. He was a vocalist for Steely Dan from 1972 to 1973. Palmer sang lead on the band's hit songs 'Dirty Work' and 'Brooklyn (Owes the Charmer Under Me).' After leaving Steely Dan, Palmer worked as a session musician and released several solo albums.
These are the key members of Steely Dan and their biographies.
Track List for Katy Lied:
Sure! Here are all of the tracks in the album Katy Lied by Steely Dan, in order:
1. 'Black Friday' - 3:33
'Black Friday' begins with an upbeat piano riff and quickly introduces drums, bass, and a funk-influenced guitar line. The lyrics tell a story of chaos and panic as the stock market crashes.
2. 'Bad Sneakers' - 3:16
'Bad Sneakers' features a laid-back, jazzy feel with intricate guitar work and a smooth vocal melody. The lyrics are a reflection on disaffected youth culture.
3. 'Rose Darling' - 2:59
'Rose Darling' is a bluesy, piano-driven track with a catchy chorus and clever lyrics that tell the story of a man who keeps getting involved with the wrong women.
4. 'Daddy Don't Live in That New York City No More' - 3:15
'Daddy Don't Live in That New York City No More' is a slow, soulful song with rich harmonies and a story of a father who leaves his family behind in pursuit of his own dreams.
5. 'Doctor Wu' - 3:53
'Doctor Wu' is a whimsical tune with a shuffling beat and a soaring chorus. It's a tale of a man who becomes hopelessly addicted to a mysterious woman named Katy.
6. 'Everyone's Gone to the Movies' - 3:44
'Everyone's Gone to the Movies' features a catchy, breezy melody over a funk-infused groove. It tells the story of a creepy man who invites young girls over to his house to watch movies.
7. 'Your Gold Teeth II' - 4:12
'Your Gold Teeth II' is a jazz-influenced track with intricate guitar work and swirling organ. The lyrics explore themes of self-deception and delusion.
8. 'Chain Lightning' - 2:57
'Chain Lightning' is a rollicking, up-tempo song with a driving rhythm section and an infectious chorus. The lyrics tell the story of a love affair that ends in disaster.
9. 'Any World (That I'm Welcome To)' - 3:54
'Any World (That I'm Welcome To)' features sweeping strings and a dreamy, laid-back feel. The lyrics express a longing for a place where the singer can truly belong.
10. 'Throw Back the Little Ones' - 3:11
'Throw Back the Little Ones' is a wistful, bittersweet track with a melancholy melody and lyrics about lost love and regret.
I hope that helps!
Discography for Steely Dan:
Here is the complete discography for Steely Dan in chronological order:
Albums:
1. Can't Buy a Thrill (1972)
2. Countdown to Ecstasy (1973)
3. Pretzel Logic (1974)
4. Katy Lied (1975)
5. The Royal Scam (1976)
6. Aja (1977)
7. Gaucho (1980)
8. Two Against Nature (2000)
9. Everything Must Go (2003)
Singles:
1. 'Do It Again' (1972)
2. 'Reelin' In the Years' (1973)
3. 'Show Biz Kids' (1973)
4. 'My Old School' (1973)
5. 'Rikki Don't Lose That Number' (1974)
6. 'Pretzel Logic' (1974)
7. 'Black Friday' (1975)
8. 'Bad Sneakers' (1975)
9. 'Kid Charlemagne' (1976)
10. 'The Fez' (1977)
11. 'Josie' (1978)
12. 'Hey Nineteen' (1980)
13. 'Time Out of Mind' (1981)
Other releases:
1. 'Dallas' (1972) - single released under the pseudonym 'Walter Becker and Donald Fagen'
2. Citizen Steely Dan box set (1993)
3. Showbiz Kids: The Steely Dan Story 1972-1980 box set (2000)
4. Steely Dan: A Decade of Steely Dan compilation album (1985)
5. Gold compilation album (1986)
6. The Very Best of Steely Dan: Reelin' In the Years compilation album (1991)
7. The Definitive Collection compilation album (2006)
Note: These are the most significant and notable releases. There have been various live albums, compilations, and other releases throughout the band's career.