Walter Becker Net Worth

What was Walter Becker's Net Worth?

Walter Becker was an American musician, songwriter and record producer who had a net worth of $50 million at the time of his death in 2017. Walter Becker earned his fame and fortune as the co-founder, guitarist, bassist and co-songwriter for the band Steely Dan. He co-founded the group with Donald Fagen in the early 1970s. Becker's distinct guitar work, brilliant songwriting, and impeccable production skills were instrumental in crafting the complex and sophisticated sound that made Steely Dan one of the most critically acclaimed acts of the 1970s.

Over the next several decades Steely Dan sold more than 40 million albums worldwide over nine studio album releases. Steely Dan would also become one of the most-sampled bands by hip-hop artists. Several of their riffs would be turned into hugely popular rap songs. Their music has been sampled for songs by De La Soul, Lord Tariq & Peter Gunz, Kanye West, Ice Cube, Wiz Khalifa, and 3rd Bass.

Unfortunately, Walter died on September 3, 2017 at the age of 67.

Two years after his death, Walter's widow held an estate sale of all the musician's former guitars and amplifiers among other valuables. The sale brought in more than $3 million.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Becker was born and raised in Queens, New York. An only child, Becker developed a love for music early on. He learned saxophone and guitar, and by his teenage years, he was already playing blues music. Becker's interest in jazz, as well as literature and art, would later influence Steely Dan's distinct style.

While studying at Bard College in Annandale-on-Hudson, New York, Becker met Donald Fagen. The two quickly bonded over their shared love of jazz and blues music, and began playing in bands together. After leaving Bard College in 1969, the pair moved to Brooklyn and attempted to start their careers as songwriters.

Formation of Steely Dan

After some initial struggle, Becker and Fagen moved to Los Angeles and formed Steely Dan in 1972. With Becker on bass and guitar and Fagen on vocals and keyboards, the band began its unique fusion of rock with elements of jazz, R&B, and traditional pop.

The band's breakthrough came with their debut album, "Can't Buy a Thrill", which spawned the hit singles "Do It Again" and "Reelin' In the Years". Becker's intricate guitar work and his and Fagen's intricate songwriting set Steely Dan apart in the era of straightforward rock 'n' roll.

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Success and Hiatus

Steely Dan's popularity grew with each subsequent release. Their albums, including "Countdown to Ecstasy" (1973), "Pretzel Logic" (1974), and "Aja" (1977), were celebrated for their sophisticated songwriting, intricate arrangements, and top-notch musicianship. Becker, alongside Fagen, was the driving force behind this success.

However, the intense work ethic and the stress of constant touring led Becker to substance abuse. After the release of the band's seventh studio album, "Gaucho" (1980), Becker and Fagen announced a hiatus. Becker moved to Hawaii, where he focused on getting sober and started working as a record producer.

Solo Career and Reformation of Steely Dan

During the 1990s, Becker reignited his music career. He produced Fagen's "Kamakiriad" (1993) and released two solo albums of his own, "11 Tracks of Whack" (1994) and "Circus Money" (2008). His solo work continued the jazz-rock tradition of Steely Dan, albeit with a more personal touch.

In 1993, Becker and Fagen reformed Steely Dan, releasing two more albums – "Two Against Nature" (2000) and "Everything Must Go" (2003). They also embarked on several successful tours, their sophisticated sound continuing to resonate with audiences.

Passing and Legacy

Walter Becker passed away on September 3, 2017, leaving behind a rich musical legacy. His work with Steely Dan, marked by its musical sophistication and lyrical depth, continues to be celebrated today.

Walter Becker, along with Donald Fagen, crafted a sound that was unique in the landscape of rock music, blending elements of jazz, traditional pop, and R&B into a style that was wholly their