Meaning: Walter Becker, a musician and co-founder of the band Steely Dan, made this statement about his primary influences in music. His reference to the best jazz players from the 1950s and 1960s, along with prominent pop and blues musicians from the same era, provides insight into the diverse range of musical styles that shaped his artistic sensibilities.

The 1950s and 1960s were pivotal decades in the evolution of jazz, pop, and blues music, marked by significant innovations and the emergence of influential artists. Jazz in the 1950s saw the rise of bebop and hard bop, with luminaries such as Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Thelonious Monk pushing the boundaries of the genre. Meanwhile, the 1960s witnessed the advent of avant-garde jazz and the fusion of jazz with rock and other genres, exemplified by artists like Herbie Hancock and Charles Mingus.

Becker's mention of pop musicians from the same time period reflects the immense impact of the 1950s and 1960s on popular music. This era gave rise to iconic figures such as The Beatles, The Beach Boys, and Bob Dylan, who revolutionized the pop music landscape with their innovative songwriting and sonic experimentation. The 1960s also witnessed the emergence of Motown and the soul music movement, with artists like Marvin Gaye and Aretha Franklin leaving an indelible mark on popular music.

In addition to jazz and pop influences, Becker highlights the significance of blues musicians from the same era. The 1950s and 1960s were a transformative period for the blues, with artists such as Muddy Waters, Howlin' Wolf, and B.B. King shaping the evolution of the genre and laying the groundwork for the blues revival of the late 1960s and early 1970s. These musicians brought raw emotion and electrifying performances to the forefront, influencing countless artists across genres.

By drawing from these diverse musical influences, Becker's own musical contributions reflect a fusion of jazz sophistication, pop sensibilities, and blues authenticity. Steely Dan's music is renowned for its intricate harmonies, sophisticated arrangements, and lyrical depth, reflecting the impact of jazz's harmonic complexity, the melodic hooks of pop, and the emotional resonance of the blues.

Furthermore, Becker's acknowledgment of the "better" known blues musicians suggests a discerning approach to his musical influences. Rather than simply embracing the mainstream or popular artists of the time, he sought out the most skilled and authentic practitioners of the blues, recognizing the importance of craftsmanship and artistry in shaping his own musical identity.

In conclusion, Walter Becker's statement underscores the profound impact of the 1950s and 1960s on his musical development. By embracing the best jazz players, influential pop figures, and skilled blues musicians of that era, Becker synthesized a rich tapestry of musical influences that informed his creative expression as a musician and shaped the distinctive sound of Steely Dan. His words serve as a testament to the enduring legacy of the music from that era and its enduring influence on contemporary artists.