Steely Dan had never really kicked in for me-until someone played this entire album (vinyl) at a party. Then I had to go buy it. Royal Scam is one of my favorite songs from them.
My man this is the kind of song that has to age on the palette for a bit. Before you know it you will be thinking : I need to hear that again. This is the way Fagen and Becker planned it.
I love this song. The way they keep going back to that hypnotic piano/guitar stabs with those beautiful chord changes during verse and chorus. I could listen to it for an hour. This album my fav SD better than Aja IMHO. The song is about immigrants and their mistreatment I believe from Puerto Rico after WW2.
The last frame from the video looks like the marquis at the Chicago Theater the night my good friend and I saw Steely Dan and the Royal Scam tour several years ago. That show was fire. Started with Kid Charlemagne, and every song through to The Royal Scam. Larry Carlton was also with them. The only prop that they had was a turntable with a record on it, and just before they started to play, one of the singers held up a finger to pause, walked down to to the record player, turned it on, set the arm on the album, and so it began, Side One. Brilliant. They took a break at the end of side one, and Donald, Walter, and Larry walked off stage for about a 5 minute break, and the band continued to play with the horn players doing their thing. Then the rhythm went into The Fez. Donald, Walter, and Larry came back out to their instruments. The same singer paused everyone again, went down to the turntable, flipped the album, set the arm, and they started playing The Fez, and played the entire side finishing with the Royal Scam. The entire band took about a 15 minute break, then returned for about another hour of their hits. I have seen Steely Dan several times, and this show was very memorable, and will always stand out. I am looking forward to your Trip to Aja, some of the best Steely music there is. I agree with you on Can't Buy a Thrill, but there is so much outstanding music in each of their albums. Sort of like Big Band music, Jazz , Country, Rock, Hip Hop, and Classical, some really amazing stuff, but not all of it is for everyone. God bless brother, stay well. Sorry for being long winded, but like I said, the last frame brought back a memory that I had to share.
My DramaSydE, I totally agree with you. Every piece of music has a particular like or dislike to the individual listener but contain nuggets of pure gold in them. You have such a rich ear and appreciation for every type of music. Thanks for this.
Got to see them twice and this song was the best both times with the light show and brass. It was mesmerizing. And that one piano chord slammed is the shi&
Puerto Ricans began their exodus to NYC, especially in the late 40’s, early 50’s. They settled into several areas, most notably into the South Bronx. These lyrics make references to those early experiences. Many of those slides of burnt down buildings was reflecting when this album was made, when the Bronx was literally burning. The next album would be Aja.
Next stop: Aja (1977) - Arguably the band's most praised album. I don't want to mess with your expectations but one thing is for sure: the production is even one or two steps ahead of what you've heard so far!
Not a lot of popular music I would call monumental, but these guys are that. They document the late 20th century cultural malaise as any great novelist would but with the added dimension of spectacular songwriting and musicianship. Bravo Donald and Walter
This is probably my favorite SD cut, overall. If you want to hear something beautiful, try "H Gang", from D Fagen's second solo effort, "Morph the Cat". It's your formula.
Appreciate your insight as usual. That sneaky trumpet lurking in the background throughout.. just brilliant. On to the next album. Looking forward to it D. 🔥✌️
DramaSyde, I've enjoyed all of your Steely Dan videos. Great to hear your analysis and appreciation. I was wondering if you're ever going to finish off "Katy Lied." There are two tracks on it I'd love to hear your thoughts on: "Your Gold Teeth II" and "Doctor Wu." All the best, and keep rocking! --Your fan.
Aja is a mood, next album be relaxed going in. Take a night drive or something sit down and listen to it after, its just a special kinda relaxing. Fun album
Of all the albums I have and their are many from the 60, 70 and 80’s Steely Dan and Donald Fagen solo albums I listen too the most because they top almost everything else great reaction Michael !
The streets of London are paved with gold was a common saying among people looking to escape their corner of hell in the 19th century . There were only 2 choices for people back then. Stay in a life of hard work with no return other than existence. Or pack up your trinkets and go searching for a better life. Many would hear the stories of the new world and the 'golden streets' saying replaced London for NYC. As they came off the ships they were greeted with every form of scam & violence one could imagine. What this song captures for me is imagine your first night in the big Apple, your savings & your eldest son gone defending your family in a violent robbery, Huddled in a freezing cold doorway in some slum, what must be going through their minds and how the wished they never left home. That is what this song says to me.(:
To truly understand how SD puts their music together do yourself a favor you won’t regret listen to Oliver Nelson the blues and the abstract truth album then add a heavy dose of sarcasm and humor and a pinch of science fiction
This may be their finest song. It's right up there. It rewards repeat listens. The album might be their finest too. It's not as flawless as Aja, but some of the high points are Everest. Loved the way you reacted to the trumpet coming in. Give Here At The Western World a spin before you move onto Aja. Chronologically it belongs on this LP and is plenty classy.
Aja is next I believe. Most agree it's their best body of work. It will be interesting to see where you rank it. In fact at journey's end it would be cool to see you rate your least to most favorite work by Steely Dan!
I know exactly what u mean with the lyrics. I felt like that for so long and the only albums i could really listen to CDE and CBAT. Smoke a joint or get drunk af and get used to the songs and it opens up a different world the instruments get even more detailed and the singing works in a way thats just different but whines up really making the song more cinematic. Its really just like drink you sink into it cause it tastes like shit at first but with enough experience and tasting it just becomes great.
the 'Aja' album is next!!! It's without a doubt their most praised album for average listeners and audiophiles alike! This will definitely take the cake from 'Can't Buy A Thrill' as your favorite Steely Dan album. I love all their albums (not their last two so much though).
Agreed. Some SD songs fit perfectly with Donald Fagen's unique voice and visa-versa. Others, not so much, this being one of those. But like you said the real star of this tune, well, let's be honest, the real star of all SD songs is the unparalleled musicianship. Walter and Donald were/are unrivaled composers in the world of "popular" music, and on par with the best of many other genres.
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The Royal Scam, both the album and its title track, is Steely Dan's dark, cynical masterpiece.
Steely Dan had never really kicked in for me-until someone played this entire album (vinyl) at a party. Then I had to go buy it. Royal Scam is one of my favorite songs from them.
My man this is the kind of song that has to age on the palette for a bit. Before you know it you will be thinking : I need to hear that again. This is the way Fagen and Becker planned it.
I love this song. The way they keep going back to that hypnotic piano/guitar stabs with those beautiful chord changes during verse and chorus. I could listen to it for an hour. This album my fav SD better than Aja IMHO. The song is about immigrants and their mistreatment I believe from Puerto Rico after WW2.
This song really grew on me over the years. A cinematic masterpiece.
Same great word to use, cinematic is key. Especially with Gaucho also
Kid Charlemagne too.
The last frame from the video looks like the marquis at the Chicago Theater the night my good friend and I saw Steely Dan and the Royal Scam tour several years ago. That show was fire. Started with Kid Charlemagne, and every song through to The Royal Scam. Larry Carlton was also with them. The only prop that they had was a turntable with a record on it, and just before they started to play, one of the singers held up a finger to pause, walked down to to the record player, turned it on, set the arm on the album, and so it began, Side One. Brilliant. They took a break at the end of side one, and Donald, Walter, and Larry walked off stage for about a 5 minute break, and the band continued to play with the horn players doing their thing. Then the rhythm went into The Fez. Donald, Walter, and Larry came back out to their instruments. The same singer paused everyone again, went down to the turntable, flipped the album, set the arm, and they started playing The Fez, and played the entire side finishing with the Royal Scam. The entire band took about a 15 minute break, then returned for about another hour of their hits. I have seen Steely Dan several times, and this show was very memorable, and will always stand out. I am looking forward to your Trip to Aja, some of the best Steely music there is. I agree with you on Can't Buy a Thrill, but there is so much outstanding music in each of their albums. Sort of like Big Band music, Jazz , Country, Rock, Hip Hop, and Classical, some really amazing stuff, but not all of it is for everyone. God bless brother, stay well. Sorry for being long winded, but like I said, the last frame brought back a memory that I had to share.
My DramaSydE, I totally agree with you. Every piece of music has a particular like or dislike to the individual listener but contain nuggets of pure gold in them. You have such a rich ear and appreciation for every type of music. Thanks for this.
Got to see them twice and this song was the best both times with the light show and brass. It was mesmerizing. And that one piano chord slammed is the shi&
Puerto Ricans began their exodus to NYC, especially in the late 40’s, early 50’s. They settled into several areas, most notably into the South Bronx. These lyrics make references to those early experiences. Many of those slides of burnt down buildings was reflecting when this album was made, when the Bronx was literally burning.
The next album would be Aja.
Next stop: Aja (1977) - Arguably the band's most praised album. I don't want to mess with your expectations but one thing is for sure: the production is even one or two steps ahead of what you've heard so far!
Not a lot of popular music I would call monumental, but these guys are that. They document the late 20th century cultural malaise as any great novelist would but with the added dimension of spectacular songwriting and musicianship. Bravo Donald and Walter
I knew when that trumpet came in it was gonna turn your head around.
This is probably my favorite SD cut, overall. If you want to hear something beautiful, try "H Gang", from D Fagen's second solo effort, "Morph the Cat". It's your formula.
I change my mind about best all the time, but it's certainly one of their best songs.
My favorite Steely Dan bv song. And they wondered in from the City of St. Johns without a dime. My favorite group.
Appreciate your insight as usual. That sneaky trumpet lurking in the background throughout.. just brilliant. On to the next album. Looking forward to it D. 🔥✌️
Great song. You actually nailed the meaning completely fwiw.
Those keys at the very end they always end w the coolest parts of the song at the very end right before it fades and always like ‘hey wait!’
DramaSyde, I've enjoyed all of your Steely Dan videos. Great to hear your analysis and appreciation. I was wondering if you're ever going to finish off "Katy Lied." There are two tracks on it I'd love to hear your thoughts on: "Your Gold Teeth II" and "Doctor Wu." All the best, and keep rocking! --Your fan.
He already finished Katy Lied. The video was blocked on YT but it's on Vimeo. Here's the link: vimeo.com/440869503
@@MichaelTrogdon1990 Thanks for the heads up!
Aja is probably the most consistent style wise. You gonna love it. Peace and love to everyone out there ✌❤
Aja is a mood, next album be relaxed going in. Take a night drive or something sit down and listen to it after, its just a special kinda relaxing. Fun album
Welcome brother to the world of Steely Dan! I really appreciate you're thoughtful insights.
Of all the albums I have and their are many from the 60, 70 and 80’s Steely Dan and Donald Fagen solo albums I listen too the most because they top almost everything else great reaction Michael !
Great Review. Very thoughtful and well analyzed. This is one of my favorite SD songs. Just discovered your channel and subscribed.
I've been to St.John's many times.I'll take it over NYC anytime.
San Juan really ???
The streets of London are paved with gold was a common saying among people looking to escape their corner of hell in the 19th century . There were only 2 choices for people back then. Stay in a life of hard work with no return other than existence. Or pack up your trinkets and go searching for a better life. Many would hear the stories of the new world and the 'golden streets' saying replaced London for NYC. As they came off the ships they were greeted with every form of scam & violence one could imagine. What this song captures for me is imagine your first night in the big Apple, your savings & your eldest son gone defending your family in a violent robbery, Huddled in a freezing cold doorway in some slum, what must be going through their minds and how the wished they never left home. That is what this song says to me.(:
To truly understand how SD puts their music together do yourself a favor you won’t regret listen to Oliver Nelson the blues and the abstract truth album then add a heavy dose of sarcasm and humor and a pinch of science fiction
You are correct sir!
This may be their finest song. It's right up there. It rewards repeat listens. The album might be their finest too. It's not as flawless as Aja, but some of the high points are Everest. Loved the way you reacted to the trumpet coming in. Give Here At The Western World a spin before you move onto Aja. Chronologically it belongs on this LP and is plenty classy.
your on point with the meaning of the lyrics
I remember what a mess NYC was in the mid ‘70s, when this was made.
And it back to a mess now
Aja is next I believe. Most agree it's their best body of work. It will be interesting to see where you rank it. In fact at journey's end it would be cool to see you rate your least to most favorite work by Steely Dan!
I agree with you on the sound of the vocals though maybe that is what they were going for!
I know exactly what u mean with the lyrics. I felt like that for so long and the only albums i could really listen to CDE and CBAT. Smoke a joint or get drunk af and get used to the songs and it opens up a different world the instruments get even more detailed and the singing works in a way thats just different but whines up really making the song more cinematic. Its really just like drink you sink into it cause it tastes like shit at first but with enough experience and tasting it just becomes great.
You are right
so good
Steely Dan dedicated this song to Gino Vanelli. Another Hot Artist. My favorite male vocalist.
No shit. That's cool.
Did they really?
Sorry I'm late...had to get nap in... nice flow/tune
Two smart fellas.
Yes the lyrics are great, but this one would be great with just instrumental alone... Just Sayin
I saw them in 94, here you go ( Royal scam instrumental opener) ruclips.net/video/mGt8RebOy7Q/видео.html
Like to hear Santana cover this one
The wacky vox patterns tend to boil to the top as my fave in the end
Do Joe Walsh Funk #48, and #49. You won't regret it. 48 is my fave, but 49 is the most famous one.
Basically it about the myth of the American dream
One thing to note, and I may be exaggerating this, but Fagen didn't want to be the singer. He wasn't, originally. He didn't like his chops.
True but they could find a singer they really like so he took it over
Immigrants from San Juan Puerto Rico like most telling that the streets of America, particularly NYC were paved with gold with plenty of jobs!
he has no idea what’s coming🤠
Name one other song that has the same vocal delivery though. Maybe after a few more listens youll appreciate it more.
Aja is next, enjoy i know you will.
So many have been scammed here in the good ol usa
the 'Aja' album is next!!! It's without a doubt their most praised album for average listeners and audiophiles alike! This will definitely take the cake from 'Can't Buy A Thrill' as your favorite Steely Dan album. I love all their albums (not their last two so much though).
The next album is Aja... the best is yet to come.
Aja next
Agreed. Some SD songs fit perfectly with Donald Fagen's unique voice and visa-versa. Others, not so much, this being one of those. But like you said the real star of this tune, well, let's be honest, the real star of all SD songs is the unparalleled musicianship. Walter and Donald were/are unrivaled composers in the world of "popular" music, and on par with the best of many other genres.
Pretty sure Kanye wanted this instrumental
Aja is next, get some new socks, yours are about to get blown off !
I'm not familiar with this one from Steely Dan. I agree - the instrumentation is awesome, not so much the lyrics and how they were done.