The Time Steely Dan Used 50 Different Guitarists To Get The Perfect Solo For Peg

March 20, 2025

In the late summer of 1976, the air was thick with creativity in the bustling world of rock music. Steely Dan was in the studio, determined to capture a sound that would define their iconic song “Peg.” As the band worked tirelessly, they faced a challenge that would test their patience and passion: finding the perfect guitar solo. This wasn’t just any solo; it was the kind that would elevate the song to legendary status. The pressure was on, and the stakes were high, but Donald Fagen and Walter Becker had a vision that wouldn’t let them settle for anything less.

With a strong sense of determination, the duo set out on a mission that would change the song—and perhaps their careers—forever. They invited over 50 different guitarists to work on the solo, each bringing their unique style and flair. From seasoned professionals to emerging talents, they filled the studio with music that echoed in the hearts of everyone present. Each evening, the sounds of bluesy riffs and intricate solos reverberated off the walls, but after each session, Fagen and Becker found themselves unsatisfied. They didn’t want just a fantastic solo; they wanted a masterpiece.

It was during these long, exhausting nights that the true spirit of Steely Dan emerged. The band members shared ideas and collaborated in ways that showcased their resilience. They laughed and struggled together, knowing that their commitment to perfection would pay off. Fagen and Becker listened closely to every shred of music, understanding that each guitarist offered something special—even if it wasn’t quite right. Week after week, they sifted through recordings, mixing and matching of sounds, never losing sight of their goal.

Finally, after countless hours, the breakthrough came from an unlikely source. A little-known guitarist named Jay Graydon walked into the studio, ready to give it everything he had. With a twinkle in his eye, he picked up his guitar and played a solo that seemed to light up the room. It was as if all the frustration of the previous weeks melted away, replaced by a rush of pure musical magic. Fagen and Becker exchanged glances, and in that moment, they knew they had found what they were seeking. Graydon’s solo would become an integral part of “Peg,” forever etched in the annals of music history.

The release of “Peg” from their album “Aja” marked a turning point for Steely Dan. The song not only soared to the top of the charts but also solidified their reputation as perfectionists and innovators in the music industry. The journey to find the ideal solo became a testament to their dedication and love for music. Each postponed session and every rejected take were not signs of failure but stepping stones on the path to greatness. Donald Fagen and Walter Becker’s relentless pursuit of their artistic vision left a lasting legacy, inspiring countless artists to embrace their own creative journeys, no matter how winding or challenging they might be.

In the end, the story of “Peg” wasn’t just about a hit song; it was about friendship, perseverance, and the magic that happens when you refuse to give up on your dreams. Steely Dan taught the world that sometimes, you have to seek out fifty different paths before you find the one that leads you to your true sound. And when that moment arrives, it’s all worth it.