Tributes after death of Steely Dan star Becker
Steely Dan co-founder Walter Becker has died at the age of 67.
The guitarist and bassist founded the jazz rock band with Donald Fagen in 1972 alongside guitarists Jeff “Skunk” Baxter and Denny Dias, drummer Jim Hodder and singer David Palmer.
Becker, who also provided backing vocals, and Fagen, remained the core band members as other musicians and singers came and left.
His death was announced on Becker’s official website, where a recent picture was posted next to a childhood photo along with the dates of his birth and death. No other details were given.
Fagen paid tribute to his friend as “hysterically funny” and promised to keep their music alive as long as he can.
In a statement he said: “Walter had a very rough childhood – I’ll spare you the details. Luckily, he was smart as a whip, an excellent guitarist and a great songwriter.
“He was cynical about human nature, including his own, and hysterically funny.”