On This Day

Walter Becker

Musician

Born: Died: American

Walter Carl Becker (February 20, 1950 – September 3, 2017) was an American musician, songwriter, and record producer. He was the co-founder, guitarist, bassist, and co-songwriter of the jazz rock band Steely Dan.

Becker met future songwriting partner Donald Fagen while they were students at Bard College. After a brief period of activity in New York City, the two moved to Los Angeles in 1971 and formed the nucleus of Steely Dan, which enjoyed a critically and commercially successful ten-year career. Following the group's dissolution, Becker moved to Hawaii and reduced his musical activity, working primarily as a record producer. In 1985, he briefly became a member of the English band China Crisis, producing and playing synthesizer on their album Flaunt the Imperfection.

Becker and Fagen reformed Steely Dan in 1993 and remained active, recording Two Against Nature (2000), which won four Grammy Awards. Becker released two solo albums, 11 Tracks of Whack (1994) and Circus Money (2008). Following a brief battle with esophageal cancer, he died on September 3, 2017. He and Fagen are the only two members of Steely Dan who appeared on every studio album by the band.

Notable For

American musician, songwriter, and record producer

Walter Becker's Historical Timeline

  1. Walter Becker is born

    Walter Becker, American musician, known for american musician, songwriter, and record producer, was born on 1950-02-20.

Associated Historical Events

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Walter Becker born?
Walter Becker was born on 1950-02-20 (American).
What is Walter Becker known for?
American musician, songwriter, and record producer
What historical events involved Walter Becker?
Walter Becker was involved in 1 recorded historical event, including Walter Becker is born.
When did Walter Becker die?
Walter Becker died on 2017-01-01.

Related Years