The Time Steely Dan Feuded With Kanye West Over A Sample Of Kid Charlemagne

March 20, 2025

It all started when Kanye West, the famous rapper and music producer, announced that he was working on a new album. Known for often sampling older music, he had his sights set on a classic track by Steely Dan called “Kid Charlemagne.” This song was a smooth mix of jazz and rock, featuring catchy melodies and sophisticated lyrics. Kanye loved the idea of using a piece of it in his new work. However, he didn’t expect the legendary duo behind Steely Dan, Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, to have such strong feelings about their music.

When Kanye reached out to request permission to use the sample, he was surprised when he received a polite but firm rejection. Fagen and Becker were protective of their art and felt that Kanye’s style could overshadow the essence of “Kid Charlemagne.” They found themselves in a dilemma: they respected Kanye as an artist but had a deep attachment to their creation. This moment sparked a feud that quickly captivated fans and media alike, turning into a dramatic back-and-forth showdown.

As more news broke, Kanye took to social media to express his frustration. He posted a series of tweets, passionately arguing that sampling was a form of respect, a way to pay homage to the greats who inspired him. “Art should be shared and celebrated!” he declared, pouring his heart out for his followers. Meanwhile, Steely Dan held their ground, emphasizing the importance of artistic integrity. Their legacy meant everything to them, and they feared losing the soul of their music to commercial demands. Each side had supporters rallying behind them, creating a division within the music community.

As the feud heated up, fans became increasingly engaged. Some argued that Kanye was a modern genius who should be allowed to experiment, while others stood firmly by Steely Dan’s right to protect their craft. It was a battle of generations—a clash between the old school and the new. Yet, amidst the chaos, both artists felt a pang of sadness. They understood that music was meant to connect people, not divide them. To this day, they each respected the other’s passion, even if they disagreed fiercely on this issue.

In the end, instead of letting the feud define them, Kanye and Steely Dan chose to learn from the experience. Kanye shifted his approach, recognizing the importance of discussing samples before using them and building bridges with the artists he admired. Steely Dan, on the other hand, found inspiration in the modern music scene, allowing themselves to embrace a new generation of creativity. The rivalry transformed into a profound respect for each other’s artistry.

This incident became a pivotal moment for both artists. It taught them that conflict can lead to growth, and that passion for music transcends generations. While they took different paths after the feud, they emerged stronger in their beliefs and more open to the evolving world of music. The drama of “Kid Charlemagne” didn’t just create headlines; it inspired resilience in the face of disagreement and reminded everyone that music is a powerful force that unites us all.