Written by Petronilla Shreve
Modified & Updated: 16 May 2024
Reviewed by Sherman Smith
Walter Becker was a legendary musician, songwriter, and producer who left an indelible mark on the music industry. With his unmistakable guitar riffs and intricate craftsmanship, he co-founded the iconic band Steely Dan and helped shape the sound of the 1970s. Throughout his career, Becker displayed a virtuosic talent not only on the guitar but also as a lyricist and composer.
In this article, we delve into the fascinating life and career of Walter Becker, uncovering 31 interesting facts about the man behind the music. From his early beginnings to his innovative contributions to the world of rock and jazz fusion, we will explore Becker’s journey, his influences, and his lasting impact on the music landscape.
Join us as we pay tribute to the remarkable musical legacy of Walter Becker and uncover the lesser-known aspects of his life that made him such a revered and influential figure in the world of music.
Key Takeaways:
- Walter Becker, co-founder of Steely Dan, was a multi-talented musician and producer known for his love of jazz, meticulous studio work, and influence on future generations of musicians.
- Becker’s legacy as a guitarist, lyricist, and music innovator continues to inspire, earning him critical acclaim, Grammy Awards, and a lasting impact on the rock and jazz fusion genre.
Early Life
Walter Carl Becker was born on February 20, 1950, in Queens, New York City.
Musical Journey Begins
Becker met Donald Fagen, his future collaborator, at Bard College in 1967, initiating a musical partnership.
Formation of Steely Dan
In 1971, Becker and Fagen formed the iconic band Steely Dan, named after a sex toy in William S. Burroughs’ novel Naked Lunch.
Multi-Instrumentalist
Becker was not only a skilled guitarist but also played bass guitar, harmonica, and sang backing vocals.
Studio Perfectionists
Steely Dan was known for their meticulous attention to detail in the recording studio, often spending months perfecting a single song.
Chart-Topping Hits
Becker co-wrote many of Steely Dan’s chart-topping hits, including “Do It Again,” “Reelin’ in the Years,” and “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number.”
Grammy Awards
Steely Dan won a total of four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year for their classic album “Two Against Nature” in 2001.
Second Career as a Producer
After the dissolution of Steely Dan, Becker enjoyed a successful second career as a producer, working with artists such as China Crisis and Rickie Lee Jones.
Reunion with Donald Fagen
In 1993, Becker and Fagen reunited, leading to a series of successful world tours and new Steely Dan albums.
Fondness for Jazz
Becker had a deep appreciation for jazz music, which heavily influenced Steely Dan’s unique sound.
Guitar Influences
Becker drew inspiration from guitarists like Jimi Hendrix, Wes Montgomery, and Duke Levine.
Collaborations
Becker collaborated with other notable artists, including Michael McDonald, Walter Trout, and Rosie Vela.
Released Solo Albums
Becker released two solo albums: 11 Tracks of Whack (1994) and Circus Money (2008).
Avid Reader
Becker was an avid reader and drew inspiration from various literary works, which can be seen in his song lyrics.
Music Critics’ Favorite
Becker’s contributions to Steely Dan’s music earned him accolades from music critics and fans alike.
Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
In 2001, Steely Dan was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, solidifying their place in music history.
Fondness for Science Fiction
Becker had a fondness for science fiction and incorporated elements of it into Steely Dan’s album artwork and lyrics.
Unique Songwriting Style
Becker and Fagen’s songwriting style was characterized by wry, sardonic lyrics and complex musical arrangements.
Influence on Future Generations
Steely Dan’s music continues to influence and inspire musicians across different genres, spanning generations.
Love for New York
Becker had a strong connection to New York City, and the city’s culture and atmosphere often found its way into his music.
Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
In 2000, Steely Dan received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing their significant impact on the music industry.
Musician’s Musician
Becker was highly regarded by fellow musicians for his technical prowess and musical innovation.
Collaboration with Walter Brecker
Becker collaborated with his longtime friend, saxophonist Walter Brecker, on various musical projects.
Rolling Stone’s 100 Greatest Guitarists
Becker was included in Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time.
Contributions as a Lyricist
Alongside Fagen, Becker contributed thought-provoking and introspective lyrics to Steely Dan’s songs.
Steely Dan’s Lasting Legacy
Steely Dan’s music continues to resonate with listeners, leaving a lasting legacy in the realm of rock and jazz fusion.
Musical Evolution
Throughout Steely Dan’s career, Becker played a crucial role in the band’s musical evolution, pushing boundaries and experimenting with new sounds.
“Pretzel Logic”
Becker co-wrote the title track of Steely Dan’s album “Pretzel Logic,” showcasing his versatility as a songwriter.
Critical Acclaim
Steely Dan’s albums were consistently lauded by critics for their innovative sound and intelligent songwriting.
Guitar Magazine’s Top 100 Guitarists
Becker was ranked 43rd in Guitar Magazine’s list of the Top 100 Guitarists of All Time.
Legacy and Influence
Walter Becker’s contributions to music will forever be remembered, with his influence extending beyond his time with Steely Dan.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Walter Becker was a remarkable musician, songwriter, and one-half of the iconic band Steely Dan. His contributions to the world of music continue to be celebrated and admired by fans and fellow musicians alike. Becker’s talent, creativity, and dedication to his craft have left an indelible mark on the industry.Through his work with Steely Dan, Becker pushed boundaries and combined various genres to create a unique and timeless sound. His intricate guitar work, along with his lyrical prowess, helped shape the band’s signature style.Despite facing personal and professional challenges throughout his life, Walter Becker remained committed to his artistry and the pursuit of musical excellence. His legacy lives on through his extensive body of work, showcasing his unmatched talent and passion for music.Walter Becker’s impact on the music world will continue to be felt for generations to come. He will always be remembered as a true pioneer and a visionary in the industry.
FAQs
Q: When was Walter Becker born?
A: Walter Becker was born on February 20, 1950.
Q: What was Walter Becker’s role in Steely Dan?
A: Walter Becker was one of the founding members of the band Steely Dan. He played bass guitar, co-wrote songs, and contributed to the band’s overall sound and direction.
Q: Did Walter Becker release any solo albums?
A: Yes, Walter Becker released two solo albums during his career – “11 Tracks of Whack” in 1994 and “Circus Money” in 2008.
Q: What were some of Walter Becker’s notable songwriting contributions?
A: Some of Walter Becker’s notable songwriting contributions include “Do It Again,” “Reelin’ in the Years,” and “Deacon Blues.
Q: Did Walter Becker receive any awards or recognition for his musical achievements?
A: Yes, Walter Becker, along with Donald Fagen, was awarded the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2001 for his contributions to the music industry as a member of Steely Dan.
Q: What was Walter Becker’s approach to music?
A: Walter Becker was known for his meticulous attention to detail and his desire to create complex, intricate musical arrangements. He often incorporated elements of jazz, rock, and pop into his work.
Walter Becker's musical genius extended beyond his work with Steely Dan. His solo albums showcased his unique songwriting style and guitar prowess. Becker's influence on generations of musicians is undeniable, cementing his status as a true legend. For more captivating facts about the iconic band he co-founded, read on to learn 37 intriguing details about Steely Dan's formation, chart-topping hits, and enduring legacy.
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