Steely Dan

In January 1974, Steely Dan was embarking on a significant phase of their career, highlighted by their first tour of the UK. At this time, they had just released their album "Countdown to Ecstasy" in July 1973, which included the song "Bodhisattva." This album marked a creative evolution for the duo, showcasing their blending of rock, jazz, and sophisticated lyrics. The live performance of "Bodhisattva" captured in St. Louis exemplifies their growing reputation as a formidable live act. Notably, they utilized the song as an opener for their UK tour, signifying its importance in their setlist. The use of the term "Bodhisattva," which is rooted in Buddhist philosophy, in a popular song by a Western artist was quite groundbreaking. This period laid the groundwork for Steely Dan’s distinct sound and artistic approach that would characterize their work throughout the 1970s.

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