How Everything Must Go By Steely Dan Was A Fitting Swan Song Before Walter Becker’S Passing

March 20, 2025

The sun began to set over the New York skyline, bathing the city in a warm golden hue as the music echoed through the concert hall. The air was thick with excitement as fans packed into the venue, eagerly waiting for their favorite band to take the stage. It was the summer of 2017, and Steely Dan, the legendary band known for their smooth blend of rock, jazz, and pop, was about to embark on what would become their final tour. Walter Becker, the band’s co-founder and mastermind behind many of their beloved songs, was battling serious health issues. Little did anyone know that this night, filled with nostalgia and passion, would serve as a fitting swan song for an artist who had given so much to the world of music.

As the first notes of “Everything Must Go” rang out, the crowd erupted in applause. The song, rich with Becker’s intricate guitar work and Donald Fagen’s soulful voice, spoke of resilience and acceptance, themes that resonated deeply with Walter in those challenging times. It was a poignant reminder that life is full of changes, often unexpected and sometimes difficult. As the band played, Walter leaned into the music, pouring his heart and soul into each note, as if he were saying goodbye not just to the audience, but to the life he had dedicated himself to.

The energy in the room was electric, filled with memories of past concerts and the songs that had shaped the lives of so many. Fans sang along, their voices blending with the melodies created decades earlier. Walter looked out over the crowd, and for a brief moment, the worries of his illness faded away. He was not just a musician; he was a storyteller, weaving tales of love, loss, and the complex world around him. “Everything Must Go” reminded everyone that while life’s chapters may close, the stories we create and the music we share remain forever etched in the hearts of those we touch.

As the last notes faded into silence, Walter Becker took a moment to soak in the appreciation that surrounded him. His laughter, his spirit, and his artistry had left an indelible mark on fans young and old. He had faced his battles with courage and grace, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, one could continue to find joy and purpose. The show concluded, but the energy lingered in the air, a testament to a life well-lived through the lens of creativity.

Walter’s passing in September 2017 left a void in the music world, but “Everything Must Go” served as a reminder of his passion and resilience. Even in his final days, he was able to offer the world his truth, leaving behind a legacy that would inspire future generations. His music still plays on, a gentle nudge to embrace life’s changes and appreciate the moments we often take for granted. As fans revisit his songs, they feel not just the sadness of his departure, but the joy of his contributions—a celebration of a remarkable journey wrapped in the beauty of melody.

In the end, the concert wasn’t just a farewell; it was a celebration of a life brimming with creativity, love, and unwavering spirit. Walter Becker’s legacy lives on, a powerful reminder that even as everything must go, the music and the memories we create can last forever. Through the ups and downs, he showed us all that the show must go on, and in that, there is solace and hope for all of us.