Check out these new and used Steely Dan vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Steely Dan vinyl collection with the essential albums Can’t Buy A Thrill, Aja and Two Against Nature. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from rock musicians.
Aja[LP]
Can't Buy A Thrill[LP]
Gaucho[LP]
Pretzel Logic[LP]
7% OffCountdown To Ecstasy [LP]
27% OffNORTHEAST CORRIDOR: STEELY DAN LIVE![2 LP]
29% OffSteely Dan: Greatest Hits
$40.27 (as of April 18, 2024 12:09 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)The Nightfly
The Royal Scam
$39.05 (as of April 18, 2024 12:09 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Everything Must Go
15% OffSteely Dan: The Quintessential Jazz-Rock Fusion Maestros
The Genesis of Steely Dan
In the vibrant and eclectic landscape of 1970s rock music, one band stood out for their unique blend of jazz, rock, and sophisticated songwriting—Steely Dan. Formed in 1972 by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, the duo’s meticulous approach to music production and their penchant for studio perfectionism set them apart from their contemporaries.
Musical Roots and Early Years
Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, both accomplished musicians, met at Bard College in New York. Bonding over a shared love for jazz, blues, and rock, they began collaborating on music that would later become the foundation of Steely Dan’s distinctive sound. Drawing inspiration from jazz legends like Duke Ellington and Miles Davis, the duo sought to bring a level of sophistication to rock music that was unprecedented at the time.
Aja: The Magnum Opus
Crafting a Masterpiece
Released in 1977, “Aja” is often considered Steely Dan’s magnum opus. The album is a sonic journey through jazz, rock, and funk, featuring impeccable instrumentation and complex arrangements. The title track, “Aja,” is a testament to Fagen and Becker’s musical prowess, with its intricate time signatures and seamless transitions.
Deconstructing Aja’s Tracks
- “Black Cow”: Opening the album, this song sets the stage with its smooth jazz undertones and lyrical introspection. The interplay between Fagen’s vocals and the jazz-influenced instrumentation establishes the album’s sophisticated vibe.
- “Deacon Blues”: A standout track, “Deacon Blues” explores the existential angst of a musician. The song’s intricate structure and Fagen’s soulful delivery make it a quintessential Steely Dan piece.
- “Peg”: With its catchy hooks and infectious groove, “Peg” became one of Steely Dan’s most commercially successful songs. The addition of jazz-rock guitar solos showcases the band’s ability to merge genres seamlessly.
- “Josie”: Closing the album on a high note, “Josie” infuses a funk-rock vibe into Aja. The tight rhythm section and dynamic guitar work make it a fitting conclusion to this musical masterpiece.
The Royal Scam and Pretzel Logic: Exploring Steely Dan’s Artistic Evolution
The Royal Scam (1976)
Following the success of “Katy Lied,” Steely Dan released “The Royal Scam” in 1976. The album marked a departure from the more polished sound of its predecessor, embracing a grittier and edgier sonic palette.
Tracks Worth Noting
- “Kid Charlemagne”: Known for its iconic guitar solo by Larry Carlton, this track captures the essence of Steely Dan’s fusion of rock and jazz. The lyrics, inspired by the infamous LSD chemist Owsley Stanley, add a layer of intrigue to the song.
- “Don’t Take Me Alive”: A dark and rebellious anthem, this track showcases Becker’s guitar skills and Fagen’s evocative storytelling. The unconventional chord progressions contribute to the song’s ominous atmosphere.
Pretzel Logic (1974)
“Pretzel Logic,” released in 1974, continued Steely Dan’s exploration of diverse musical influences. The album’s title track exemplifies the band’s ability to incorporate complex jazz harmonies into a rock framework.
Standout Moments
- “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number”: A radio-friendly hit, this track features a memorable piano riff and Fagen’s distinctive vocals. The song’s infectious melody and catchy chorus contributed to its commercial success.
- “Any Major Dude Will Tell You”: With its laid-back vibe and introspective lyrics, this song highlights Steely Dan’s versatility. The acoustic instrumentation and Fagen’s heartfelt delivery make it a standout track on the album.
Influences and Contemporaries
Steely Dan’s innovative fusion of jazz and rock has influenced numerous artists across genres. Their meticulous studio craftsmanship and intricate compositions have left an indelible mark on the music landscape.
Similar Bands
- The Doobie Brothers: Known for their smooth blend of rock and R&B, The Doobie Brothers share a kinship with Steely Dan in their exploration of diverse musical elements. Tracks like “What a Fool Believes” showcase a similar attention to detail in production.
- Chicago: Combining jazz, rock, and pop, Chicago is another band that mirrors Steely Dan’s genre-defying approach. Both bands emerged in the 1970s and contributed to the fusion of rock and jazz elements in popular music.
Bands Influenced by Steely Dan
- Toto: The Grammy-winning band Toto drew inspiration from Steely Dan’s studio sophistication and jazz-infused arrangements. Songs like “Rosanna” and “Africa” showcase Toto’s homage to Steely Dan’s meticulous production style.
- Prefab Sprout: This British band, led by Paddy McAloon, embraced Steely Dan’s influence in their smooth pop-rock sound. Albums like “From Langley Park to Memphis” feature intricate arrangements and sophisticated songwriting reminiscent of Steely Dan.
Legacy and Later Years
Gaucho (1980)
Following the success of “Aja,” Steely Dan faced challenges during the production of their next album, “Gaucho.” Fagen and Becker’s perfectionism led to prolonged recording sessions, resulting in a three-year gap between the two albums. Despite the setbacks, “Gaucho” maintained the band’s high standard of musical excellence.
Key Tracks
- “Babylon Sisters”: A soulful and jazz-infused track, “Babylon Sisters” showcases Steely Dan’s ability to create lush, intricate arrangements. The song’s smooth groove and Fagen’s velvety vocals contribute to its timeless appeal.
- “Hey Nineteen”: Exploring themes of aging and nostalgia, this track combines a funky rhythm with Fagen’s satirical lyrics. The use of brass instruments adds a touch of sophistication to the overall composition.
Steely Dan’s Hiatus and Return
After the release of “Gaucho,” Steely Dan went on a lengthy hiatus. Donald Fagen and Walter Becker pursued solo projects, with Fagen achieving success with his solo album “The Nightfly.” The duo reunited in the 1990s for live performances and eventually released new studio albums, including “Two Against Nature” (2000) and “Everything Must Go” (2003).
Induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2001, Steely Dan was rightfully inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their status as one of the most influential and enduring bands in music history. The induction ceremony acknowledged their contributions to the evolution of rock and jazz fusion.
Steely Dan’s Lasting Impact
Steely Dan’s legacy extends far beyond their chart-topping hits and critical acclaim. Their meticulous approach to music production, sophisticated songwriting, and seamless fusion of genres continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
Enduring Popularity and Cultural Significance
Despite the evolving music landscape, Steely Dan’s music remains relevant and continues to attract new listeners. The band’s albums are celebrated for their timeless quality, with fans spanning multiple generations.
Sampling in Hip-Hop
Steely Dan’s catalog has found a second life in hip-hop, where their samples have been used by artists seeking to inject a touch of jazz sophistication into their beats. Tracks like Kanye West’s “Champion,” which samples “Kid Charlemagne,” showcase Steely Dan’s enduring influence.
Conclusion
In the annals of music history, Steely Dan stands as a testament to the boundless possibilities of genre fusion. From their early days of jazz-rock experimentation to the polished perfection of “Aja” and the later years of their enduring legacy, Fagen and Becker’s musical journey reflects a commitment to innovation and artistic excellence. As we continue to revisit their timeless albums, Steely Dan’s influence on the landscape of rock and jazz fusion remains as potent and inspiring as ever.
Steely Dan Gaucho 1980 US 1st MCA Masterdisk RL Ultrasonic Clean VG+
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STEELY DAN Gaucho Vinyl LP Record Album 1980 MCA With Inner Sleeve
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STEELY DAN Greatest Hits *2 LP ABC AK-1107 MASTERDISK Rob Ludwig RECORD
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Steely Dan Aja MFSL Mobile Fidelity Audiophile US vinyl
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Steely Dan - Can't Buy A Thrill [New Vinyl LP] 180 Gram
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Steely Dan - Countdown To Ecstasy
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Steely Dan - Can’t Buy A Thrill - 1972 Vinyl LP MCA Records MCA-1591 w/ Inner/NM
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Steely Dan - Aja [New Vinyl LP]
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Steely Dan – Gaucho 1980 Gloversville Press Vinyl LP, VG+, MCA-6102, TESTED
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Steely Dan : Katy Lied 1975 Pop Rock LP Vinyl Record ABCD-846 (Grade G+)
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Steely Dan - Aja Vinyl 1977 ABC Records LP Gatefold Original
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Steely Dan-Can't Buy a Thrill-LP Vinyl 1972 ABC Records ABCX-758 1st Press EX/EX
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Steely Dan - Aja Vinyl 1977 ABC Records LP Gatefold Original
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STEELY DAN Aja - 1977 First Press Gatefold ABC Records LP AB-1006 RARE! Vg
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Donald Fagen (Steely Dan) The Nightfly Vinyl LP 1982 Warner Bros.
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1973 Steely Dan Countdown To Ecstasy LP
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Steely Dan - Aja - MFSL Vinyl Original Master Recording
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Steely Dan Greatest hits abc records double lp original album 1978
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STEELY DAN Gaucho Vinyl LP Record Album 1980 MCA MCA6102 Inner Sleeve
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STEELY DAN~VERY RARE SEALED LP~CANT BUY A THRILL~1972 USA 1stPRESS~ABC RECORDS
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HIT ME HARD AND SOFT (Amazon Exclusive Red Vinyl)
$32.99 (as of April 18, 2024 03:59 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)eternal sunshine[Ruby LP] [Alt Cover]
$32.97 (as of April 18, 2024 01:37 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)THE TORTURED POETS DEPARTMENT [Ghosted White 2 LP]
$39.98 (as of April 18, 2024 08:10 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)Greatest Hits (Remastered)
10% OffOnly God Was Above Us
5% OffRumours
8% OffKind Of Blue (Vinyl)
15% OffThe Nightmare Before Christmas (Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) [Zoetrope Picture Disc 2 LP]
Wall of Eyes
Take This To Your Grave (20th Anniversary)
24% Off