In the summer of 1973, Steely Dan was on the verge of a significant breakthrough in their career, following the release of their critically acclaimed album "Countdown to Ecstasy" earlier that year. By the time they performed "My Old School" on "The Midnight Special" on August 31, 1973, they were firmly establishing their unique blend of rock, jazz, and pop music, which would become their signature sound. The performance highlighted their meticulous musicianship and distinctive lyrical storytelling. Interestingly, "My Old School" is a tribute to their college experiences, reflecting the band members’ backstory and the culture of the era. This live appearance marked an essential moment as it showcased Steely Dan's growing popularity and foreshadowed their later success, paving the way for future albums like "Pretzel Logic" released in 1974.