The Royal Scam, released in 1976, radiates surreal satire, jazz precision, and lyrical puzzles. With tales of acid kings, skyscraper beasts, and sly nods to rock rivals, the album is packed with curious gems. Here are five delightful facts tucked inside the grooves.
1. “Kid Charlemagne” Tells the Tale of a Psychedelic Trailblazer
The album’s opener draws inspiration from Owsley Stanley, the famed LSD chemist of the 1960s counterculture. His “Technicolor motorhome” likely refers to the Merry Pranksters’ kaleidoscopic bus. Through jazz fusion and biting lyrics, Steely Dan immortalized a moment of psychedelic history.
2. Larry Carlton’s Guitar Solo Became a Landmark
Carlton recorded his solo on “Kid Charlemagne” in segments, blending precision and spontaneity. Each phrase bends and twists with fluid energy, earning it recognition as one of rock’s greatest solos. The final product flows so smoothly, it feels like a song within a song.
3. “The Fez” Features a Rare Co-Writing Credit
Paul Griffin, the session keyboardist, helped shape the melody during the recording of “The Fez” and received co-writing credit. Becker and Fagen, known for their meticulous credits, added his name in a spirit of generosity and curiosity. Griffin’s playful riff helped elevate the track’s groove.
4. Steely Dan and the Eagles Traded Musical Winks
“Everything You Did” includes the line, “Turn up the Eagles, the neighbors are listening,” a lyric sparked by Becker’s girlfriend’s listening habits. The Eagles replied later that year in “Hotel California” with, “They stab it with their steely knives,” a lyrical nod. The connection reflected shared management and mutual respect.
5. The Album Cover Merged Two Striking Visions
The dreamlike cover art—featuring a man asleep beneath looming animal-headed skyscrapers—was originally created for a Van Morrison project. Designer Ed Caraeff added a photo of a Boston vagrant to complete the surreal composition. Fagen and Becker once called it the most memorable artwork of the decade.
The Royal Scam sails through jazz, funk, and lyrical folklore with polished ease, every track shaped by masterful musicianship and sharp imagination. Each listen reveals another layer waiting to be uncovered.