Date of Birth: February 20, 1950
Zodiac Sign: Pisces
Date of Death: September 3, 2017
Biography
Walter Carl Becker was an acclaimed American musician, songwriter, and record producer, best known as the co-founder, guitarist, bassist, and co-songwriter of the rock band Steely Dan. Born in Queens, New York, Becker met Donald Fagen while both were students at Bard College in the late 1960s. They formed Steely Dan in 1972, creating a unique blend of rock, jazz, Latin music, R&B, blues, and sophisticated studio production. Steely Dan was known for its complex compositions, witty and cryptic lyrics, and meticulous studio production. The band released several critically acclaimed albums in the 1970s, including “Can’t Buy a Thrill,” “Pretzel Logic,” and “Aja.” Becker’s musicianship and songwriting were integral to the band’s success. After Steely Dan disbanded in 1981, Becker moved to Hawaii and largely withdrew from the music industry, although he continued to work as a producer. He rejoined Fagen in 1993 to revive Steely Dan, and the band released two more albums, “Two Against Nature” and “Everything Must Go.” “Two Against Nature” won four Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year. Becker also released two solo albums, “11 Tracks of Whack” in 1994 and “Circus Money” in 2008. He continued to tour with Steely Dan until his health declined. Walter Becker passed away on September 3, 2017, leaving behind a legacy as one of the most influential and respected figures in rock music.
5 Interesting Facts about Walter Becker
1. Walter Becker met his long-time collaborator Donald Fagen while they were both students at Bard College.
2. Steely Dan’s album “Aja” is considered one of the greatest albums of all time by many music critics.
3. Becker was a multi-instrumentalist, proficient in guitar, bass, and keyboards.
4. Becker and Fagen were known for their perfectionist approach to recording, often using numerous session musicians to achieve their desired sound.
5. In addition to his work with Steely Dan, Becker produced albums for artists such as Rickie Lee Jones and Michael Franks.
5 Most Interesting Quotes from Walter Becker
1. “I listen to a lot of different kinds of music, and I try to take bits and pieces from all the different things I like.”
2. “We had a vision for the music, and we were determined to see it through, no matter what.”
3. “The goal was always to make records that were interesting and challenging, both musically and lyrically.”
4. “When you’re making records, you have to have a clear idea of what you want to achieve and stick to it.”
5. “Music is a journey, and every song is a new adventure.”
Highest Net Worth Achieved
At the peak of his career, Walter Becker’s net worth was estimated to be around $20 million.
Children
Walter Becker had two children: a son named Kawai and a daughter named Sayan.
Relevant Links
1. [Walter Becker’s Official Website](http://walterbecker.com/
2. [Steely Dan’s Official Website](http://steelydan.com/
3. [Walter Becker on AllMusic](https://www.allmusic.com/artist/walter-becker-mn0000812592
5. [Walter Becker’s Discography](https://www.discogs.com/artist/29303-Walter-Becker
