Steely Dan’s Classic Hit: “Reelin’ In the Years”
Steely Dan, the American rock band known for its sophisticated music and intricate lyrics, released the quintessential track “Reelin’ In the Years” as the second single from their 1972 debut album, Can’t Buy a Thrill. A notable entry in the annals of rock history, this song achieved remarkable success, peaking at No. 11 on the US Billboard Hot 100 chart and reaching No. 15 in Canada upon its release. Its enduring appeal is a testament to the band’s unique blend of rock with jazz-like arrangements, setting a precedent for their future works.
Written by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, the core duo behind Steely Dan, “Reelin’ In the Years” captures the essence of their early sound. Fagen’s vocals—distinct and slightly jaded—perfectly deliver the lyrical content, which, typical of the band’s style, mixes a biting commentary with smooth, melodic hooks. The lyrics themselves are a sardonic farewell to a past lover, intertwined with reflective musings on life and time. This thematic complexity is paired with an upbeat tempo that belies the deeper, sometimes cynical undertones of the song.
The musical arrangement of “Reelin’ In the Years” features some of the most memorable instrumental performances in rock history. Notably, the guitar solo by session musician Elliott Randall was famously done in a single take and has been celebrated by none other than Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page as his favorite solo of all time, scoring it an unprecedented 12/10. This solo was also ranked as the 40th best guitar solo of all time by the readers of Guitar World magazine in 2016. The track’s production quality was ahead of its time, featuring a four-channel quadraphonic mix that included additional lead guitar fills not present in the more common two-channel stereo version.
Upon its release, the song was well-received by critics and listeners alike. Billboard praised its “easy sounding guitar solos” and “easy sounding piano break,” highlighting the seamless integration of various musical elements. Cash Box labeled it a “winner highlighted by some expert guitar playing,” and Record World predicted its significant sales potential, calling it “another winner from their Can’t Buy A Thrill LP.”
In 2005, “Reelin’ In the Years” was recognized again for its influence and excellence in guitar work when Q magazine placed it at No. 95 in its list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks. This song not only solidified Steely Dan’s reputation as innovative musical craftsmen but also captured the spirit of an era that was redefining rock music’s boundaries. For both new listeners and long-time fans, “Reelin’ In the Years” remains a vibrant and poignant reminder of Steely Dan’s profound impact on the music world.