Part 1
The Jazz Chords That Made Steely Dan Sound Like Steely Dan
A musician-friendly guide to the harmonic secrets behind Steely Dan's signature sound: extended chords, modal interchange, and why their songs feel so sophisticated.
Steely Dan: Insights & Analysis
High-level analysis of Steely Dan's artistry—the partnership, perfectionism, jazz influences, and studio innovation that made them one of rock's most sophisticated acts.
4 essays
Part 2
Donald Fagen and Walter Becker: The Outsiders Who Conquered Pop
The unlikely story of two jazz-obsessed college kids who became one of rock's greatest songwriting partnerships, defined an era, and changed how we think about studio recordings.
Part 3
Steely Dan's Studio Obsession: Why They Fired Everyone
How two perfectionists dissolved their band to build the cleanest sound in rock
Part 4
Aja Track by Track: The Most Expensive Album Ever Made
A deep dive into every song on Steely Dan's 1977 masterpiece and the obsession behind it