Remembering Walter Becker’s Greatness

We’re still reeling from the death of founding Steely Dan member Walter Becker, a gift from the music Gods lost a few weeks ago. He and Donald Fagen met at Bard College, toured as the backup band for Jay and the American’s for a summer, and once had actor Chevy Chase as their drummer. Walter died of an undisclosed illness at the age of 67.

How good of a song writer was Walter? Consider the tunes he wrote or co-wrote: “Reelin’ in the Years” “Aja,” “Josie,” “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number,” “Do It Again,” “Peg,” “Dirty Work,” and “Deacons Blues” all come from the imagination and talent of Walter.

Life had been filled with ups and downs for Walter; from drug addiction to music awards, he continued to make a difference in the world. Steely Dan was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2001.
Donald Fagen announced last week the Steely Dan would be back on the road with a moderate tour this fall.