For decades, Walter Becker stood as the epitome of the ultimate musical architect—the cynical, brilliant, and famously reclusive co-founder of Steely Dan. Together with Donald Fagen, Becker crafted an immaculate world of studio perfection combining sharp wit with elusive jazz-rock genius. His solo output was historically scarce, making every release a treasured artifact. The drama around his creative work deepened when years after his prime, a collection of previously hidden recordings was uncovered, offering fans a rare, unrefined peak behind the curtain of his creative process. This archival treasure, released as Found Studio Tracks (2007), showcased an unpolished dimension of his musical soul, with at its core the powerful, insistent groove of “Soul Ram.”
Although never released as a single or charted piece, “Soul Ram” carries a mystique that resonates deeply among aficionados. Its impact stems from both the mystery of its origins and the raw, unfiltered funk flowing throughout the track. Known for their relentless pursuit of sonic perfection, Becker and Fagen rarely allowed anything less than absolute polish to see the light of day. The very existence of a piece such as “Soul Ram” feels anomalous—an exposed, visceral blueprint from a musician who was mostly guarded and cerebral.
This track offers crucial insight into Walter Becker’s artistry beyond the meticulous lyrics and arrangements synonymous with Steely Dan. A heavy, muscular funk-rock number, it stands as a moment where Becker, celebrated for his virtuosity on bass and rhythm guitar, surrendered to the primal, insistent rhythm, proving that even the most intellectual musicians could be overwhelmed by groove’s raw power. Stripped down and grimier than the classic Steely Dan sound, “Soul Ram” is a shadowy, more urgent musical statement.
The essence of “Soul Ram” lies in the freedom found in its sound. The title itself promises a forceful charge of soul, and the music delivers with intensity. Unlike the elaborate lyrical puzzles that defined Becker’s collaborative work with Fagen, this instrumental track is straightforward—Becker’s instruments speak directly, weaving a complex yet gripping pattern that is both technically sophisticated and delightfully unrefined. For listeners who treasure the deep cuts and instrumental mastery behind Steely Dan’s hits, this song is revelatory, harkening back to a time when rhythm ruled and funk propelled the music forward.
Sarah Jenkins, a longtime Steely Dan historian, noted,
“Walter Becker’s ‘Soul Ram’ is an unprecedented look at his unvarnished musical soul. Unlike the meticulous layers we expect, here we feel the grit and raw passion that often remained hidden.”
For veteran fans who cherish the intricate tapestry of 1970s and 1980s rock, “Soul Ram” is an evocative journey steeped in nostalgia. It represents a poignant, intimate moment with a genius who often stayed in the shadows. This track not only immortalizes a deeply emotional and raw piece of music history but also serves as a fitting document of a reclusive mastermind revealing his true, unfiltered self.
Music critic Michael Latimer observed,
“What makes ‘Soul Ram’ so compelling is its stark contrast to the polished perfection of Steely Dan’s known catalog. It’s a rare glimpse into Becker’s primal groove, showcasing the human behind the genius.”