During their long and illustrious career, Nancy and Ann Wilson of Heart dedicated themselves to achieving new levels of musical excellence. Throughout their journey, they drew inspiration from a wide range of artists who first ignited their passion for music, including iconic figures like The Beatles, Jeff Beck, and Elton John. However, one band that profoundly impacted them was Steely Dan.
For the Wilson sisters, Steely Dan was “like no other band.” With deep jazz roots, Steely Dan crafted a sound that was both sophisticated and distinctive. Their music took listeners on intricate journeys, combining innovative compositions with a forward-thinking approach. Unlike other bands that relied on familiar melodies and guitar riffs, Steely Dan pushed boundaries by incorporating diverse musical influences, resulting in a sound that was groundbreaking and unmistakably their own.
In their early years, Steely Dan stood out as one of the most enigmatic groups in the music industry. They not only filled the contemporary musical landscape with timeless masterpieces but also maintained an aura of mystery by rarely touring or giving interviews. Their music was accessible yet layered with complexities and inside jokes, creating a unique confidence that resonated with fans who enjoyed dissecting music beyond its surface. This approach especially appealed to listeners like Nancy and Ann Wilson, who appreciated the challenge of uncovering the subtle nuances in Steely Dan’s work.
One song that particularly captivated the Wilson sisters was Steely Dan’s breakout hit, “Do It Again.” This track embodies the band’s signature style, featuring an immediately captivating rhythm, innovative arrangements, and seemingly cryptic lyrics that require unconventional critical thinking to fully understand. The song prioritizes mood over literal interpretation, resulting in a sound that was both unusual and revolutionary. Steely Dan would later describe their music as “smart rock,” a fitting term for the sophisticated and complex nature of their work.
“Do It Again” didn’t just capture the Wilson sisters’ interest—it quickly became a cultural staple. The song has been featured in numerous significant films and TV shows, including The Dead Zone, All Good Things, Invincible, and Laurel Canyon. When discussing this iconic track on an episode of The Celebrity Playlist Podcast, Nancy Wilson included it in a list of songs that “inspire, taught us how to play and sing, and songs that were turning points, that made us cry and laugh.”
Expanding on Steely Dan’s timeless appeal, Wilson remarked: “These guys took jazz, turned it on its ear, and created their own sound out of jazz and rock. They made sarcasm and a wink and a sneer really accessible. I still don’t know how they did that.”
Wilson also recalled her first encounter with “Do It Again,” saying she was so impressed by its groundbreaking sound that she immediately bought the single and sent it to a friend in Germany, eager to share the musical innovation she had discovered.
Revisiting “Do It Again” today, it’s easy to see why it left such a lasting impact on the Wilson sisters. The song’s dynamic structure, hypnotic sitar riff, and genre-defying qualities set it apart as a masterpiece. While many artists have covered the track over the years, few have managed to replicate its unparalleled magnetism.
