Funk Rock

This song by Walter Becker and Donald Fagen was the breakthrough hit for Steely Dan. It was released in 1972 for their debut album Can’t Buy a Thrill. They also released it as a single, backed with “Fire in the Hole.” In 1972-1973, the song wen to to #6 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 and in Canada. It was #10 in The Netherlands, #29 in Italy, and #33 in Germany.  The album ultimately earned RIAA platinum certification.

The song has an absolutely mesmerizing groove, which is the point of the wheels turning and doing it again. Whether one shoots, gambles, or makes bad choices in love, there seems to be another chance to make those wrong choices another time.

There have been numerous covers of “Do It Again.” This includes versions by Waylon Jennings, Falco, Tori Amos, Paul Hardcastle, and Smash Mouth. The Italian group Club House released a mash-up of this song in 1983 with “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson. It was titled “Do It Again (Medley with Billie Jean),” and it charted well internationally.

On the track were Donald Fagen (Wurlitzer electric piano, Yamaha YC-30 organ, vocals), Denny Dias (electric sitar), Jeff Baxter (guitar), Walter Becker (bass guitar), Jim Hodder (drums), and Victor Feldman (percussion).  Steely Dan formed in 1972. The lineup has changed over the years, and many musicians have played on their recordings.  Steely Dan continues to tour and perform.  Walter Becker passed away this September.

Here are the lyrics to “Do It Again” by Steely Dan:

In the mornin’ you go gunnin’ for the man who stole your water
And you fire till he is done in but they catch you at the border
And the mourners are all sangin’ as they drag you by your feet
But the hangman isn’t hangin’ and they put you on the street

You go back, Jack, do it again, wheels turnin’ ’round and ’round
You go back, Jack, do it again

When you know she’s no high climber then you find your only friend
In a room with your two timer, and you’re sure you’re near the end
Then you love a little wild one, and she brings you only sorrow
All the time you know she’s smilin’; you’ll be on your knees tomorrow

You go back, Jack, do it again, wheels turnin’ ’round and ’round
You go back, Jack, do it again

Now you swear and kick and beg us that you’re not a gamblin’ man;
Then you find you’re back in Vegas with a handle in your hand
Your black cards can make you money so you hide them when you’re able
In the land of milk and honey you must put them on the table

Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again, wheels turnin’ ’round and ’round
You go back, Jack, do it again

For another song by Steely Dan: “Rikki Don’t Lose That Number.”

For More 70s Tunes

The System has daily featured music from all sorts of genres of 1970s music. You’re welcome to listen to any of the 40+ selections in The System. Thank you for stopping by. Hope you enjoyed “Do It Again” by Steely Dan.