Although Steely Dan's music was rooted in jazz and blues, the band's name came from a literary source--Edgar Burroughs' novel "Naked Lunch," which made mention of a "steely dan," a steam-powered adult toy. This playful reference fit perfectly within the framework of Steely Dan's angular arrangements and Fagen's often bitingly cynical and sarcastic lyrics.
Steely Dan's music could be heard frequently across FM airwaves during the 1970s but not in concert halls. The band existed essentially as a studio-only outfit, as Becker and Fagen refused to tour after 1974, much to the chagrin of their fans.
Fagen and Becker first met while attending Bard College in Annandale-On-Hudson, New York.
Fagen and Becker were part of the Bad Rock Group, an early ensemble that included future "Saturday Night Live" star Chevy Chase, who played drums.
Two former Steely Dan members--guitarist Jeff Baxter Mand vocalist Michael McDonald--both joined The Doobie Brothers in the mid-'70s.