Josie (Steely Dan song)

Becker and Fagen wrote an early version of "Josie" well before the recordings for Aja took place. Nonetheless "Josie" incorporates many jazz chords. Don Breithaupt sees an influence from the Delta blues, particularly in the "stark open fifths and lyric-driven rhythm," but he also notes that it incorporates "exotic open chords derived from the parallel Phrygian scale." Mason praises the song's "sly irony and danceable R&B groove." Becker plays a guitar solo on the song, one of the few on Aja. Fagen sings the lead vocals. The drummer is Jim Keltner, whom critic Victor Aaron particularly praises for a fill that restarts the song near the end after a brief pause. ==Lyrics and reception==

Billboard described "Josie" as a "rhythmic rocker" and praised its "outstanding vocals," "funky, steady beat" and "wry lyrics." Cash Box said it has a "clean crystalline rhythm and lead lines," "understated yet invigorating rhythm guitar funk," and a "clever 'up' lyric," among other virtues. Record World said that "The opening guitar figure is an eerie hook in itself, while the balance of the song blends pop and jazz in fine fashion." Seguin Gazette-Enterprise reviewer J. J. Syrja describes the song as "a tasty ditty about a community girl in the truest sense of the word." Sweet suggests that she may be returning from prison. ==Personnel==

Source: • Donald Fagen – synthesizers, vocals • Walter Becker – guitar solo • Victor Feldman – electric piano • Larry Carlton – guitar • Dean Parks – guitar • Chuck Rainey – bass • Jim Keltner – drums, percussion • Timothy B. Schmit – backing vocals ==Release charting==

Josie was released as the third single from Aja, following "Peg" and "Deacon Blues." It also reached number 44 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart. In Canada it reached number 20. "Josie" was included on several Steely Dan compilation albums, including Greatest Hits in 1978, Citizen Steely Dan in 1993 and Showbiz Kids: The Steely Dan Story, 1972–1980 in 2000. Several live versions were released, including on Alive in America in 1995, Plush TV Jazz-Rock Party in 2000 and Green Flower Street: Radio Broadcast 1993 in 2015. ==References==