The Meaning Behind The Song: Deacon Blues by Steely Dan
When it comes to classic rock, few bands are as iconic as Steely Dan. Known for their unique blend of jazz, rock, and blues, Steely Dan has produced some of the most memorable tracks in the history of music. One of their most beloved songs is Deacon Blues, which was released in 1977. This song has stood the test of time and remains a staple of classic rock radio today. In this article, we will take a closer look at the meaning behind this classic tune.
The Inspiration Behind Deacon Blues
Deacon Blues was inspired by a jazz musician named Jay Beckenstein, who was the founder of the jazz fusion band Spyro Gyra. Jay had never heard of Steely Dan and was surprised to find out that he had inspired one of their songs. In an interview, Donald Fagen, the songwriter and lead vocalist of Steely Dan, explained the origins of the song:
“One day I was sitting in my apartment and I heard a Spyro Gyra album playing in the apartment next door. I didn’t know who the band was, but there was something about the music that really spoke to me. I felt like they were playing for me and that I was in the club with them. That’s how Deacon Blues came about.”
In many ways, Deacon Blues is a tribute to all the jazz musicians who play in small clubs and bars, working hard to make a living and pursuing their passion for music.
The Lyrics of Deacon Blues
Deacon Blues is a song about a man who is unhappy with his life and wants to escape from the mundane and everyday routine. He dreams of a life of glamour and fame, of playing saxophone in a band and being recognized for his talent. The opening lines of the song set the tone for what’s to come:
“This is the day of the expanding man
That shape is my shade
There where I used to stand
It seems like only yesterday
I gazed through the glass
At ramblers
Wild gamblers
That’s all in the past”
The phrase “the expanding man” refers to the protagonist’s desire to be more than he currently is. He wants to break free from his dull, monotonous life and become someone who is admired and respected. The line “That shape is my shade” suggests that he is a shadow of his former self and wants to find a way to stand out in the world.
The Significance of the Title
The title of the song, Deacon Blues, has been the subject of much speculation over the years. Many people have assumed that it refers to a religious leader or minister, but Donald Fagen has explained that the title has no religious connotations whatsoever. In an interview, he said:
“Deacon Blues doesn’t have anything to do with religion. It’s just a name that we came up with. There’s no hidden meaning or symbolism behind it.”
Instead, Fagen has said that the title came from a friend of his who was a fan of baseball player Deacon White. Fagen liked the way the name sounded and decided to use it for the song.
The Music of Deacon Blues
Deacon Blues is a prime example of Steely Dan’s unique fusion of jazz and rock music. The song features a smooth, jazzy groove with intricate piano, saxophone, and guitar solos. The arrangement also includes backing vocals and a memorable horn section.
The song is notable for its use of a particular chord progression known as the “mu major”. This chord progression is a series of chords that move in an unconventional order and create a unique harmonic effect. The mu major chord progression is used throughout Deacon Blues and is a defining feature of the song.
The Legacy of Deacon Blues
Since its release in 1977, Deacon Blues has become one of Steely Dan’s most beloved songs. It has been covered by numerous artists and has been included in many “best of” lists of classic rock songs.
Part of the song’s appeal is its relatable message about the desire to break free from the mundane and pursue one’s passion. This message has resonated with listeners of all ages and backgrounds, and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and music fans.
Conclusion
Deacon Blues is a timeless classic that continues to captivate and inspire listeners. Its unique blend of jazz and rock music, memorable lyrics, and relatable message have made it a favorite among fans of classic rock and jazz. Steely Dan’s legacy as one of the greatest bands of all time is largely due to songs like Deacon Blues, which have stood the test of time and remain as relevant and impactful as they were when they were first released.
