Music Monday: Steely Dan and “Reelin’ In The Years” #video
Posted By RichC on January 27, 2025
“Reelin’ In the Years,” a song by American rock band Steely Dan was written by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. The song features Fagen on vocals and is an early example of their easily recognized sound. I found it interesting to read that Fagen thought it “dumb but effective,” and Becker said it was “no fun.”
Who am I to disagree, but when I hear it, I only think … Steely Dan.
Interestingly while listening to it on my iPhone 16 Pro Max, with the updated iOS 18.2 and Apple Intelligence, I grab a screenshot thinking it would remind me to include it on Music Monday sometime in January. While looking at it (left), I thought, I wonder what the Apple “clean up” tools could do to make it more blog friendly (image right).
| Steely Dan – “Reelin’ In The Years” | 1972 |
In keeping with the artificial intelligence (AI) theme on a song recorded way back in 1972, and a Midnight Special video from August 31, 1973 (mp4 link in case the YouTube clip disappears), I asked Brave’s Leo AI to give me a 
summary of the song (below the break). It is interesting.
Meaning and Inspiration
The song “Reelin’ in the Years” from Steely Dan’s 1972 album “Can’t Buy a Thrill” has been subject to various interpretations over the years. According to some fans and critics, the title refers to the act of reeling in memories or experiences from the past, much like an Irish reel dance. This interpretation is supported by the song’s lyrics, which describe a nostalgic and melancholic reflection on a past relationship.
Double Meaning
Others argue that the title has a double meaning, referencing both the idea of reeling in memories and the phrase’s connotation of being “reeling” or off-balance, as if hit by an unexpected blow. This interpretation is supported by the song’s themes of regret, longing, and the passage of time.
Musical Composition
The song features Steely Dan’s signature jazz-rock fusion sound, with intricate instrumental arrangements and cryptic lyrics. The guitar work, particularly the harmony guitar bridge, is notable for its complex and beautiful interplay between Walter Becker and Larry Carlton.
Cultural Significance
“Reelin’ in the Years” has been widely praised for its innovative production, lyrical depth, and musical craftsmanship. It has been cited as one of the greatest songs of all time by various publications and critics, including Rolling Stone and Pitchfork.
Legacy
The song has been covered by numerous artists, including jazz musicians such as Pat Metheny and Brad Mehldau. Its influence can be heard in many subsequent jazz-rock and pop songs, and it remains a fan favorite and a staple of Steely Dan’s live performances.
In Conclusion
“Reelin’ in the Years” is a masterpiece of Steely Dan’s discography, with its enigmatic title and lyrics open to multiple interpretations. The song’s musical composition, cultural significance, and legacy make it a standout track in the band’s catalog, and a testament to their innovative and enduring influence on popular music.
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