Steely Dan’s Reelin’ In the Years: A Sardonic Groove with Guitar Mastery
From their 1972 debut album Can’t Buy a Thrill, Steely Dan’s Reelin’ In the Years is a track that effortlessly merges sharp wit with dazzling musicianship, making it one of the band’s most enduring songs. Written by the dynamic duo Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, the song was released as the album’s second single and became a commercial success, peaking at No. 11 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 15 in Canada. Decades later, its clever lyrics and iconic guitar solo continue to captivate listeners.
The song’s lyrics present a sardonic farewell to a past relationship, with Fagen delivering biting lines that drip with sarcasm. Its refrain, “Are you reelin’ in the years? / Stowin’ away the time,” encapsulates a tone of both bewilderment and dismissal toward an ex-partner. While the words may cut deep, the song’s buoyant shuffle groove gives it an ironic levity, turning personal heartbreak into something surprisingly danceable.
At the heart of Reelin’ In the Years lies the unforgettable guitar solo by session player Elliott Randall. Played in just one take, the solo has since achieved legendary status. Notably, it’s said to be Jimmy Page’s favorite guitar solo of all time, which he reportedly rated a perfect “12 out of 10.” Its fluid precision and raw emotion demonstrate a rare balance of technical brilliance and instinctive feel, earning it recognition as one of the greatest guitar solos in rock history. In 2016, Guitar World readers ranked it the 40th best guitar solo of all time, a testament to its timeless appeal.
Musically, Reelin’ In the Years exemplifies Steely Dan’s knack for blending genres. It’s a fusion of rock, jazz, and pop, with its signature bouncy piano groove underpinning the biting guitar leads and Fagen’s nonchalant vocal delivery. This juxtaposition of complex musicianship with seemingly straightforward hooks became a hallmark of the band’s style. The four-channel quadraphonic mix of the track even includes additional guitar fills, adding depth for audiophiles who want to dive deeper into its layers.
Critics and audiences alike embraced the song upon its release. Billboard praised the seamless interplay of guitar and piano, while Cash Box and Record World both hailed it as a standout track destined for success. Over the years, Reelin’ In the Years has continued to earn accolades, including a spot on Q magazine’s list of the 100 Greatest Guitar Tracks in 2005.
Despite its acclaim, the song retains a self-effacing charm that reflects its creators’ perspectives. In a 2009 interview, Fagen described it as “dumb but effective,” and Becker quipped, “It’s no fun.” This wry detachment only adds to its mystique, encapsulating Steely Dan’s ability to craft music that’s both intellectually engaging and infectiously listenable.
Reelin’ In the Years remains a cornerstone of Steely Dan’s legacy, capturing the essence of their unique blend of razor-sharp lyricism and intricate instrumental craftsmanship. Whether it’s the sardonic kiss-off lyrics or the dazzling guitar work, the song continues to resonate, inviting listeners to reflect, groove, and marvel at its brilliance.