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Walter Becker

American musician

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Walter Becker (February 20, 1950 – September 3, 2017) was an American musician, songwriter, and record producer. He is best known as the guitarist and co-founder of the influential rock band Steely Dan, alongside Donald Fagen. Becker and Fagen met at Bard College in 1967 and began writing music together. They formed Steely Dan in the early 1970s, and the band became known for their unique blend of jazz, funk, soul, and rock, characterized by complex harmonies and sophisticated lyrics.12

After Steely Dan took a break in the early 1980s, Becker pursued solo work and produced for other artists. He and Fagen reunited in the early 1990s, touring as Steely Dan and releasing new material. Becker passed away in 2017, but Fagen has continued to tour under the Steely Dan name.21

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2 Britannica Sources
  1. Donald Fagen
  2. Steely Dan

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