Steely Dan — Any Major Dude Will Tell You
Album: Pretzel LogicAvg rating:
Your rating:
Total ratings: 1774
Length: 3:04
Plays (last 30 days): 0
share
tweet
I never seen you looking so bad
My funky one
You tell me that your superfine mind
Has come undone
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
Have you ever seen a squonk's tears?
Well, look at mine
The people on the street
Have all seen better times
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
I can tell you all I know
The where to go, the what to do
You can try to run
But you can't hide
From what's inside of you
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
My funky one
You tell me that your superfine mind
Has come undone
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
Have you ever seen a squonk's tears?
Well, look at mine
The people on the street
Have all seen better times
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
I can tell you all I know
The where to go, the what to do
You can try to run
But you can't hide
From what's inside of you
Any major dude with half a heart
Surely will tell you my friend
Any minor world that breaks apart
Falls together again
When the demon is at your door
In the morning it won't be there no more
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
Any major dude will tell you
Comments (209)add comment
Frater_Kork wrote:
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
I don't think it's pretentiousness, so much as a realisation that what they were doing was really, really special. I'm a musician and composer and if I ever managed to compose something half as good as their worst song I'd have an ego the size of Donald Trump's.
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
I don't think it's pretentiousness, so much as a realisation that what they were doing was really, really special. I'm a musician and composer and if I ever managed to compose something half as good as their worst song I'd have an ego the size of Donald Trump's.
buddy wrote:
Here, here!
Heard this on while listening to the Mellow Mix tonight. Admittedly I'm a huge SD fan, there really is no other band quite like Donald & Walter & whomever they drafted into each album. I've been binging on them for a few weeks now, every album. Some say they are dated, some don't get the complexities of the compositions, the extremely detailed arrangements, the blend of jazz & rock & blues, and of course the intelligent weave of the lyrics. To each their own. They remain one of my absolute favorite musicians, composers, & performers since I bought that first album when it came out.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
Here, here!
buddy wrote:
Amen to that brother!🙂👍
Heard this on while listening to the Mellow Mix tonight. Admittedly I'm a huge SD fan, there really is no other band quite like Donald & Walter & whomever they drafted into each album. I've been binging on them for a few weeks now, every album. Some say they are dated, some don't get the complexities of the compositions, the extremely detailed arrangements, the blend of jazz & rock & blues, and of course the intelligent weave of the lyrics. To each their own. They remain one of my absolute favorite musicians, composers, & performers since I bought that first album when it came out.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
Amen to that brother!🙂👍
Today I resigned from the worst job I have ever had. Lines like "Any minor world that breaks apart, Falls together again" help me look forward to the furure.
All my square friends like Steely Dan. I'm a bit square, but Steely Dan's tune sounds like Chinese torture.
All the squonks around my neighbourhood love this song.
I am huge SD fan from the beginning. This is arguably one of my top 5 favorites, and album is brilliant.
I'm not a SD fan and this track typifies their cruisey schmaltzy feel. 2/10 Soz peeps
Steely Dan music conjures fond memories of my past trips to Austin,Tx when I was a younger man. I really love the vibe there, and this music speaks to me
pinto wrote:
Well then, why don't YOU do something about it rather than bitch to the rest of us about what you don't like about what is and what is not played on the radio / internet after 10 pm?
I totally agree with bashing on mid-reaming's pretentious, ridiculous, and h8ful commentary on Steely. But placing his/her utter tripe unredacted in your comment allows true garbage to float to the top of the board. So I must down vote to lower the sludge beneath the surface.
Well then, why don't YOU do something about it rather than bitch to the rest of us about what you don't like about what is and what is not played on the radio / internet after 10 pm?
I totally agree with bashing on mid-reaming's pretentious, ridiculous, and h8ful commentary on Steely. But placing his/her utter tripe unredacted in your comment allows true garbage to float to the top of the board. So I must down vote to lower the sludge beneath the surface.
Heard this on while listening to the Mellow Mix tonight. Admittedly I'm a huge SD fan, there really is no other band quite like Donald & Walter & whomever they drafted into each album. I've been binging on them for a few weeks now, every album. Some say they are dated, some don't get the complexities of the compositions, the extremely detailed arrangements, the blend of jazz & rock & blues, and of course the intelligent weave of the lyrics. To each their own. They remain one of my absolute favorite musicians, composers, & performers since I bought that first album when it came out.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
A couple of major dudes to be sure.
this one is always a comfort. brilliance.
It's interesting to read all the comments and controversial discussions about Steely Dan and songs like "Any major dude ..". Maybe my English is not good enough to get in all comments the "message", and I never tried to understand the complete lyrics (up to now).
For me a lot of their songs "touch" me, they trigger emotions like this piece does. Maybe its because its linked to some experience in my life, maybe its because I like the guitar, and maybe, in case I was able to get the "message" directly, the lyrics etc.. Whatever it is, this is what makes me "like" or "less like". For me this deserves a 8-9.
For me a lot of their songs "touch" me, they trigger emotions like this piece does. Maybe its because its linked to some experience in my life, maybe its because I like the guitar, and maybe, in case I was able to get the "message" directly, the lyrics etc.. Whatever it is, this is what makes me "like" or "less like". For me this deserves a 8-9.
midreaming wrote:
Well then, why don't YOU do something about it rather than bitch to the rest of us about what you don't like about what is and what is not played on the radio / internet after 10 pm?
so tired of this suburban dried up poo. i appreciate internet radio and RP in particular for their contribution, but the 24 hour "it's prime time somewhere" effect sucks. no more is the midnight show on fm radio that peels away the veneer of cultural dead skin, opening eyes and ears, exposing pink flesh to the open air of our collective spiritual and cultural sub-conscious. ya see In this light SteelyD fans are really the cosmic anchor, yoke, the dead weight that chains us to the ground. would that only Prometheus be unbound. why some prefer being chained to a rock having their guts plucked daily by a bird (i like that corporate metaphor) is beyond me. It feels "safe" . . ? who the f knows. Enablers are equally to blame. How about Saturday nights 10 pm pst we have an hour or two where prime time shackles come off. a little taste of what it feels to be free, a drop of water for a spirit dying from thirst
just a thought
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
just a thought
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
Well then, why don't YOU do something about it rather than bitch to the rest of us about what you don't like about what is and what is not played on the radio / internet after 10 pm?
Walter Becker, a major dude for sure.
You will be missed.
You will be missed.
Grammarcop wrote:
A guy who looks like Walter Becker.
RIP, Walter… may we find ourselves half the major dude you were in your time on this rock.
A guy who looks like Walter Becker.
RIP, Walter… may we find ourselves half the major dude you were in your time on this rock.
to sum up. "it gets better"
handyrae wrote:
A guy who looks like Walter Becker.
What is a major dude?
A guy who looks like Walter Becker.
handyrae wrote:
A major dude is a hoopy frood.
What is a major dude?
A major dude is a hoopy frood.
Frater_Kork wrote:
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
After a while the pretense turns out to be "I told you so"
I saw three shows in a row last month in Vegas. They've still got it.
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
After a while the pretense turns out to be "I told you so"
I saw three shows in a row last month in Vegas. They've still got it.
kcar wrote:
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
Same here.
For years Steely Dan were the epitome of pretentiousness to me. Then suddenly, not sure how, my perspective inverted like when you stare at an optical illusion. Now I can't unsee their greatness, but I can still see the old pretentiousness if i squint real hard.
handyrae wrote:
A large gent in cowboy get-up.
What is a major dude?
A large gent in cowboy get-up.
handyrae wrote:
A major is a guy who's like really high up in the military, dude.
What is a major dude?
A major is a guy who's like really high up in the military, dude.
What is a major dude?
I bought this album through one of those record clubs when I was 12 in 1975 because I liked Rikki Don't Lose That Number, but I always loved this song best. It has really spoken to me during more than one difficult part of my life. It still does.
Maybe one of their weakest tracks
Skydog wrote:
another of the world's secrects is why people will blindly assume they know what another person's philosophy of life is
after they read a mildly comical and innocent sarcastic quip
but any major dude will tell you that some people attach their own reality onto others for a multitude of confused reasons
.
i'll probably never know why this happens
but i'll always be here to help you
just ask first before you accuse
.
okay, if you hurry you can catch the last few minutes of Star Trek
.
soo .. what you wrote makes no sense. .. but what I'm gathering so far is that you have nothing to contribute to the conversation, actually -any conversation, above the standard: "how 'bout that weather, huh? am i right?" favor? skip the lame attempt at "deep thoughts" SkyD cz you sound like my girlfriends schmarmy step dad (ew) maybe just stfu, and in the other room please. ok ok - pretty please
another of the world's secrects is why people will blindly assume they know what another person's philosophy of life is
after they read a mildly comical and innocent sarcastic quip
but any major dude will tell you that some people attach their own reality onto others for a multitude of confused reasons
.
i'll probably never know why this happens
but i'll always be here to help you
just ask first before you accuse
.
okay, if you hurry you can catch the last few minutes of Star Trek
.
soo .. what you wrote makes no sense. .. but what I'm gathering so far is that you have nothing to contribute to the conversation, actually -any conversation, above the standard: "how 'bout that weather, huh? am i right?" favor? skip the lame attempt at "deep thoughts" SkyD cz you sound like my girlfriends schmarmy step dad (ew) maybe just stfu, and in the other room please. ok ok - pretty please
midreaming wrote:
another of the world's secrects is why people will blindly assume they know what another person's philosophy of life is
after they read a mildly comical and innocent sarcastic quip
but any major dude will tell you that some people attach their own reality onto others for a multitude of confused reasons
.
i'll probably never know why this happens
but i'll always be here to help you
just ask first before you accuse
.
okay, if you hurry you can catch the last few minutes of Star Trek
.
oh my god. you are the dead weight incarnate. your voice, that thought, is the 80 lb yoke choking the life out of life. we "might" never know, so don't wander too far it's probably a waste of time. is that your profound insight? you know we just landed a space ship on a f'n asteroid right?
another of the world's secrects is why people will blindly assume they know what another person's philosophy of life is
after they read a mildly comical and innocent sarcastic quip
but any major dude will tell you that some people attach their own reality onto others for a multitude of confused reasons
.
i'll probably never know why this happens
but i'll always be here to help you
just ask first before you accuse
.
okay, if you hurry you can catch the last few minutes of Star Trek
.
Skydog wrote:
it's a big ole world out yonder
and try as we may
we might not ever know her secrects
oh my god. you are the dead weight incarnate. your voice, that thought, is the 80 lb yoke choking the life out of life. we "might" never know, so don't wander too far it's probably a waste of time. is that your profound insight? you know we just landed a space ship on a f'n asteroid right?
it's a big ole world out yonder
and try as we may
we might not ever know her secrects
midreaming wrote:
it's a big ole world out yonder
and try as we may
we might not ever know her secrects
just a thought
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
it's a big ole world out yonder
and try as we may
we might not ever know her secrects
so tired of this suburban dried up poo. i appreciate internet radio and RP in particular for their contribution, but the 24 hour "it's prime time somewhere" effect sucks. no more is the midnight show on fm radio that peels away the veneer of cultural dead skin, opening eyes and ears, exposing pink flesh to the open air of our collective spiritual and cultural sub-conscious. ya see In this light SteelyD fans are really the cosmic anchor, yoke, the dead weight that chains us to the ground. would that only Prometheus be unbound. why some prefer being chained to a rock having their guts plucked daily by a bird (i like that corporate metaphor) is beyond me. It feels "safe" . . ? who the f knows. Enablers are equally to blame. How about Saturday nights 10 pm pst we have an hour or two where prime time shackles come off. a little taste of what it feels to be free, a drop of water for a spirit dying from thirst
just a thought
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
just a thought
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsNKSbTNd5I
forgot all about this one
good call Bill
good call Bill
Proclivities wrote:
I don't believe they were very privileged - they met in a small, liberal-arts college in upstate NY (which was not Vassar). Their lyrics do have a certain "university" or "intelligensia" quality to them, but I don't find their stuff to be exclusive or requiring of a membership. We all hear different things, though.
I don't believe they were very privileged - they met in a small, liberal-arts college in upstate NY (which was not Vassar). Their lyrics do have a certain "university" or "intelligensia" quality to them, but I don't find their stuff to be exclusive or requiring of a membership. We all hear different things, though.
Skunk Baxter and I went to the same prep school. I got there in '75 and he was quite the legend for his playing...
Always loved this band. Yes, slick, but most excellent musically.
10!
brookap wrote:
I raise you six to a solid 9!
One of Steely Dan's best. A solid 3!
I raise you six to a solid 9!
One of Steely Dan's best. A solid 3!
Sweet guitar!
kcar wrote:
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
Yep, that pretty well describes most worthwhile things we find aversive (OK I made up that word.)
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
Yep, that pretty well describes most worthwhile things we find aversive (OK I made up that word.)
rdo wrote:
After 30 years...I still don't get 'em.
Not surprised really. Their tunes are subversive. You're not really all that subversive, are you?The best. Good call on the tune. Love your station!!
scrubbrush wrote:
bam23 wrote:
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
i respect the fact that people love this band but i cannot stand their psuedo-lounge style and the singers voice has never worked for me. instant station changer.
bam23 wrote:
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
You two perfectly capture my former dislike of SD. The music was too slick, arranged and breezy. The lyrics were cleverclever and dealt with people who seemed too sophisticated for the likes of me.
And then things clicked and I realized how well constructed the music was and the lyrics were filled with restraint, sarcasm and deflection. Now I love these guys.
Lazarus wrote:
Sorry to hear your living out on the streets, Laz.
But at least you've still got some decent Wi-Fi to listen to RP, which is nice.
Everybody in my homeless camp loves this song...
Sorry to hear your living out on the streets, Laz.
But at least you've still got some decent Wi-Fi to listen to RP, which is nice.
Everybody in my homeless camp loves this song, and Pretzel Logic...
buddy wrote:
Couldn't agree more. One of my favorite bands of all time. Still listening.
What's to get? It's intelligent, hip, brilliantly arranged pop/rock/jazz music like no other created by a pair of geniuses that every great session player in the country would kill to play with. Guess you had to be there.
Couldn't agree more. One of my favorite bands of all time. Still listening.
Fagen identifies himself as a sociopath from New Jersey. Does he thus admit that he, himself, is not likeable? His and Walter's music, however, is not only likeable, but timeless.
msymmes wrote:
msymmes wrote:
Agree with point number one. But as for your second comment... How can you NOT like Don and Walter?
MusiqueMusique wrote:
MusiqueMusique wrote:
Two slick, sharp and very major dudes.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
milleronic wrote:
That made me laugh out loud. And you are so right.
I think that Steely Dan was the Shins of the 70's.
That made me laugh out loud. And you are so right.
And Bill G - Your hifi feed makes this song sooooo good.
helgigermany wrote:
helgigermany wrote:
Love this music!
Agree with point number one. But as for your second comment... How can you NOT like Don and Walter?
MusiqueMusique wrote:
MusiqueMusique wrote:
Two slick, sharp and very major dudes.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
Love this music!
I think that Steely Dan was the Shins of the 70's.
neuticle wrote:
One of the few bands in the world that I can not stand
I'm with you on that. I've tried to appreciate them, I really have, but have now given up!The Dan rules OK
bam23 wrote:
I guess there are at least 2 of us facing this conundrum. There seems to be some sort of shared set of assumptions about the world and experiences, likely revolving around East Coast colleges at a particular time in history (possibly including class), that resonate with their fans. The instrumental work is very good, but for me there is nothing to hold on to. Geez, I seem to have written something similar prior to this. The music does sound professional....
steely are from L.A. because that's where the work was, they were the best. that is a dot.... meaning. period.
if you do not "get it" worry not you will still survive, just not nearly as well as we, who do...
HINT....( the guys played behind damn near every hit RECORDED in L.A.at the time) guitars, keyboards, production, you name it. like the meters in new Orleans and the mg's in Detroit.
I guess there are at least 2 of us facing this conundrum. There seems to be some sort of shared set of assumptions about the world and experiences, likely revolving around East Coast colleges at a particular time in history (possibly including class), that resonate with their fans. The instrumental work is very good, but for me there is nothing to hold on to. Geez, I seem to have written something similar prior to this. The music does sound professional....
steely are from L.A. because that's where the work was, they were the best. that is a dot.... meaning. period.
if you do not "get it" worry not you will still survive, just not nearly as well as we, who do...HINT....( the guys played behind damn near every hit RECORDED in L.A.at the time) guitars, keyboards, production, you name it. like the meters in new Orleans and the mg's in Detroit.Two slick, sharp and very major dudes.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
Albeit not particularly likeable.
What's to get? It's intelligent, hip, brilliantly arranged pop/rock/jazz music like no other created by a pair of geniuses that every great session player in the country would kill to play with. Guess you had to be there.
rdo wrote:
I guess there are at least 2 of us facing this conundrum. There seems to be some sort of shared set of assumptions about the world and experiences, likely revolving around East Coast colleges at a particular time in history (possibly including class), that resonate with their fans. The instrumental work is very good, but for me there is nothing to hold on to. Geez, I seem to have written something similar prior to this. The music does sound professional....
After 30 years...I still don't get 'em.
I guess there are at least 2 of us facing this conundrum. There seems to be some sort of shared set of assumptions about the world and experiences, likely revolving around East Coast colleges at a particular time in history (possibly including class), that resonate with their fans. The instrumental work is very good, but for me there is nothing to hold on to. Geez, I seem to have written something similar prior to this. The music does sound professional....
After 30 years...I still don't get 'em.
bam23 wrote:
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
This a really thoughtful comment and you are certainly justified in feeling the way you do. Fagan and Becker met at Bard College and both grew up in comfortable New York City suburbs. If you listen to a lot of their lyrics, their themes revolve around sex, drugs, and crime more than preppy culture, "Reeling in the Years" notwithstanding. In fact, a lot of the material gets really dark at times - more cynicism than satire. But the music is rooted in complex jazz rhythms which can be off putting to the typical fan of rock. Still, I love all these aspects of their work.
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
This a really thoughtful comment and you are certainly justified in feeling the way you do. Fagan and Becker met at Bard College and both grew up in comfortable New York City suburbs. If you listen to a lot of their lyrics, their themes revolve around sex, drugs, and crime more than preppy culture, "Reeling in the Years" notwithstanding. In fact, a lot of the material gets really dark at times - more cynicism than satire. But the music is rooted in complex jazz rhythms which can be off putting to the typical fan of rock. Still, I love all these aspects of their work.
neuticle wrote:
Too bad. It is a favourite for many who were listening back in the day. Lots of musicians like this band.
One of the few bands in the world that I can not stand
Too bad. It is a favourite for many who were listening back in the day. Lots of musicians like this band.
i love them, and i love this particular track so much. thanks bill!
One of the few bands in the world that I can not stand
bam23 wrote:
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
I don't believe they were very privileged - they met in a small, liberal-arts college in upstate NY (which was not Vassar). Their lyrics do have a certain "university" or "intelligensia" quality to them, but I don't find their stuff to be exclusive or requiring of a membership. We all hear different things, though.
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
I don't believe they were very privileged - they met in a small, liberal-arts college in upstate NY (which was not Vassar). Their lyrics do have a certain "university" or "intelligensia" quality to them, but I don't find their stuff to be exclusive or requiring of a membership. We all hear different things, though.
peter_james_bond wrote:
Amen, brother!
And I've spent hours trying to play that little riff on the guitar. I can approximate it now
If anyone fits the definition of Major Dude, it is our captain; Mr Bill G. 
Amen, brother!
And I've spent hours trying to play that little riff on the guitar. I can approximate it now
the_jake wrote:
yes
Does this major dude abide?
yes
Turn it UP!
scrubbrush wrote:
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
i respect the fact that people love this band but i cannot stand their psuedo-lounge style and the singers voice has never worked for me. instant station changer.
My problem is that it has never been possible for me to really understand the world they are describing or pretending to inhabit. It's as if a group of Eastern prep school students on their way to Ivy League universities are describing their tribulations. There is very little for me to identify with. The music that works best is that which does not require membership in a social group for appreciation. Of course, I may have read these folks wrong. If anyone out there can enlighten, please do so.
any hoopy frood will tell you...
Does this major dude abide?
Makes me smile.
One of my favorites.
A rare Steely Dan song in that it is devoid of SD's typical cynicism and sarcasm. Instead we hear genuine empathy.
Have you ever seen a squonk's tears? Well, look at mine.
The Squonk is probably the world's ugliest animal. So ugly, in fact, that it spends most of its life crying over its cruel fate. Eventually many squonks just dissolve into a puddle of tears.
The Squonk is probably the world's ugliest animal. So ugly, in fact, that it spends most of its life crying over its cruel fate. Eventually many squonks just dissolve into a puddle of tears.
peter_james_bond wrote:
....I don't give Amens' but to this OH YES !
Might R be a major Dudette !?
If anyone fits the definition of Major Dude, it is our captain; Mr Bill G.
....I don't give Amens' but to this OH YES !Might R be a major Dudette !?
shawshank wrote:
The only major DUDE worth mentioning!!!
"That rug really tied the room together, man."
The only major DUDE worth mentioning!!!
"That rug really tied the room together, man."
redeyespy wrote:
Not exactly a good case to cite in defense of anti-Danism.
Anti-Danism? I don't like the sound of that one bit.
Not exactly a good case to cite in defense of anti-Danism.
Anti-Danism? I don't like the sound of that one bit.
vesta0424 wrote:
Perhaps you just don't get the music/lyrics?
I have decided that Steely Dan sucks.
Perhaps you just don't get the music/lyrics?
The only major DUDE worth mentioning!!!
ear candy
I have decided that Steely Dan sucks.
Verpeiler wrote:
I like your style, dude :-)
"But do you have to use so many cuss words?"
I like your style, dude :-)
"But do you have to use so many cuss words?"
Stingray wrote:
amen! rating SD or Neil Young, waste of time. HOF!
No ranks for SD.
HALL OF FAME!
("8")
amen! rating SD or Neil Young, waste of time. HOF!
Bat wrote:
I'm going so shamelessly pat myself on the back and say that yes I did know back then.
I have to admit it took me a while to figure them out. If not for the guitarist in the band I was managing at the time, I would have had to wait another album or two. But he sat me down and made me listen to this a couple times.
Thanks, Pat. Haven't seen you in ages and hope life is treating you well.
I'm going so shamelessly pat myself on the back and say that yes I did know back then.
I have to admit it took me a while to figure them out. If not for the guitarist in the band I was managing at the time, I would have had to wait another album or two. But he sat me down and made me listen to this a couple times.
Thanks, Pat. Haven't seen you in ages and hope life is treating you well.
i respect the fact that people love this band but i cannot stand their psuedo-lounge style and the singers voice has never worked for me. instant station changer.
Deadwing wrote:
I'm going to shamelessly pat myself on the back and say that yes I did know back then.
Still one of my favorite bands after all these years. Amazing tight production and sound and such searing lyrics 
I don't think anyone realized back then just how great these guys were...
I don't think anyone realized back then just how great these guys were...I'm going to shamelessly pat myself on the back and say that yes I did know back then.
This is far better than the 'Rikki don't Lose That Number'...tune off the same album for the simple fact that it wasn't overplayed to death. Nice feel and nostalgic...!!!
No ranks for SD.
HALL OF FAME!
("8")
Steely sweetness, a dandy from the Dan. 10
Most excellent!
nigelr wrote:
2nd.
Ah, these were amongst the days.......................
2nd.
Strictly old-school Steely Dan and I just love it to no end, whatsoever.
One of my favorites. That frickin' demon's been hanging on past the morning though, dude.
If anyone fits the definition of Major Dude, it is our captain; Mr Bill G.
peter_james_bond wrote:
I like your style, dude :-)
Any Major Dude would tell you this is a great song. This song IS the 1970s baby!
The Dude
abides
The Dude
abidesI like your style, dude :-)
I have always thought I was hearing the lyric "any major dude" incorrectly! It's just so silly, I never thought it was actually what was really being sung.
Unique talents.
Yes!
My all time favorite Steely Dan song - killer laid back vibe and the sense that they weren't trying to overthink it.
Still one of my favorite bands after all these years. Amazing tight production and sound and such searing lyrics I don't think anyone realized back then just how great these guys were...
I don't think anyone realized back then just how great these guys were...Ah, these were amongst the days.......................
Any Major Dude would tell you this is a great song. This song IS the 1970s baby!
The Dude abides
The Dude
abidesTerrific song from a terrific album! Definitely an underrated album. Their lyrics and musicianship were excellent. They always achieved a high standard of performance. Always surrounded themselves with some of the best jazz musicians ever.
Any song of The Dan will do! Keep up the good work, Bill!
casey1024 wrote:
My first car out of college was a 73 superbeetle with an 8 track. My best friend gave me all his 8 tracks as a present (here take these before I throw them out!). Many Steely Dans in that mix. Somehow, the combination of a low horsepower flat four with a shitty stereo at the beginning of my professional career compares favorably with my turbocharged/intercooled flat four of today with a similar high output stereo
But alas, Steely Dan were an awesome band of my grade school high school years. Totally tight, totally creative. Amazing talent.
My brother's friend gave me an 8-track he had made of this album in 1975 or 76. It was my first exposure to Steely Dan. Funny thing was a couple of the tracks, like East St. Louis Toodle-ooo had the recording volume turned down as far as possible - guess the guy didnt like those songs. I eventually got the non-bootleg 8-track and I've been a fan since, and remember being amazed by how good they were in concert! Sorry but I STILL like them!
My first car out of college was a 73 superbeetle with an 8 track. My best friend gave me all his 8 tracks as a present (here take these before I throw them out!). Many Steely Dans in that mix. Somehow, the combination of a low horsepower flat four with a shitty stereo at the beginning of my professional career compares favorably with my turbocharged/intercooled flat four of today with a similar high output stereo
But alas, Steely Dan were an awesome band of my grade school high school years. Totally tight, totally creative. Amazing talent.
wonderful!
steely dan is neither good nor bad to me. the LP cover is really cool though.
Ericac wrote:
I'm with you sister! I can groove on Steely Dan any old day. Tight and a lot more complex then the rest of music popular during their hay day.
I saw them live in 1974 - under protest at the time. But I came away a fan and will have NOTHING said against them.
I'm with you sister! I can groove on Steely Dan any old day. Tight and a lot more complex then the rest of music popular during their hay day.
I saw them live in 1974 - under protest at the time. But I came away a fan and will have NOTHING said against them.
I always hear a bit of the Dead's Terrapin Station in this partic tune...
Ahhh - great mellow CLASSY rock at the end of my day here in the UK. Anyone who hates the Dan can go and eat dog poo.
So there.
So there.
Alright Buddy Bill! Good song choice. . .
I just saw these guys at the Greek theatre in Berkeley and they were great.
bumrush wrote:
I wish Donald Fagen would read this and write a typically razorsharp Dan song about it.
God I hate Steely Dan..... MUST RESIST URGE TO KILLLLLLLLL !!!!
I wrote a Haiku for them: I hate Steely Dan With a bright purple passion They can eat poo poo
I wrote a Haiku for them: I hate Steely Dan With a bright purple passion They can eat poo poo
I wish Donald Fagen would read this and write a typically razorsharp Dan song about it.
casey1024 wrote:
My brother's friend gave me an 8-track he had made of this album in 1975 or 76. It was my first exposure to Steely Dan. Funny thing was a couple of the tracks, like East St. Louis Toodle-ooo had the recording volume turned down as far as possible - guess the guy didnt like those songs. I eventually got the non-bootleg 8-track and I've been a fan since, and remember being amazed by how good they were in concert! Sorry but I STILL like them!
I'm with you sister! I can groove on Steely Dan any old day. Tight and a lot more complex then the rest of music popular during their hay day.
hostile crowd in the room -- but I understand. The younger people having to listen to Steely Dan all the effing time during the 80s, 90s and 00's it would make anyone monosyllabic.
My brother's friend gave me an 8-track he had made of this album in 1975 or 76. It was my first exposure to Steely Dan. Funny thing was a couple of the tracks, like East St. Louis Toodle-ooo had the recording volume turned down as far as possible - guess the guy didnt like those songs. I eventually got the non-bootleg 8-track and I've been a fan since, and remember being amazed by how good they were in concert! Sorry but I STILL like them!
Interestingly I have never encountered Steely Dan hatred until now. Until here on good old RP.
I like Steely Dan, especially this album yet I'm diggin on the hatred.
To summarize the legend of the squonk: It is a very ugly creature, and it knows this. Its skin is ill-fitting, and covered with warts and other blemishes, therefore the squonk hides from being seen, and spends much of its time weeping sorrowfully over its own ugliness. Hunters who have attempted to catch squonks have found that the creature is capable of evading capture by dissolving completely into a pool of tears and bubbles when cornered.
Genesis has a great song called Squonk on their album Trick of the Tail
I loves me some Dan too
bumrush wrote:
God I hate Steely Dan..... MUST RESIST URGE TO KILLLLLLLLL !!!!
I wrote a Haiku for them:
I hate Steely Dan
With a bright purple passion
They can eat poo poo
I got your back on this one!
bumrush wrote:
God I hate Steely Dan..... MUST RESIST URGE TO KILLLLLLLLL !!!!
I wrote a Haiku for them:
I hate Steely Dan
With a bright purple passion
They can eat poo poo
Not exactly a good case to cite in defense of anti-Danism.
All my square friends like Steely Dan. I'm a bit square, but Steely Dan's tune sounds like Chinese torture.
Then hit the "skip buttton"!! Problem solved! I think it is a GREAT TUNE!