Ruby Baby

"Ruby Baby," featured on Donald Fagen's 1982 solo album The Nightfly, is a cover of a 1956 hit by The Drifters, written by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. Fagen’s version, infused with his signature jazz-pop finesse, was shaped by his deep dive into 1950s records to capture the era’s atmosphere. To create the song’s lively party vibe, Fagen and his team initially tried recording ambient noise at Studio 54, suspending a microphone from the ceiling during one of Jerry Rubin’s “business parties.” Dissatisfied with the results, they scrapped it and threw their own studio party, capturing the authentic chatter and clinks that made the final cut. Another tidbit: Fagen demanded subtle timing differences between the left and right-hand piano parts, achieved by having pianists Michael Omartian and Greg Phillinganes play together on the same keyboard, showcasing his perfectionist streak. The song’s complex vocal harmonies and a key change at 2:57 reflect Fagen’s harmonic sophistication, making it a standout track that feels like a nostalgic nod to his youth.

Donald Fagen, born January 10, 1948, in Passaic, New Jersey, grew up in the suburbs of Kendall Park, a setting he found stifling and later channeled into The Nightfly. His musical journey began with an early love for rock and rhythm and blues, sparked by buying Chuck Berry’s “Reelin’ and Rockin’” at age 11. By 12, Fagen was sneaking into Greenwich Village to catch jazz legends like Earl Hines and Bill Evans at the Village Vanguard, cementing his shift to jazz. In the late 1960s, while at Bard College, he met Walter Becker, a guitarist whose shared passion for jazz, soul, and beat poetry ignited a lifelong collaboration. They formed bands, including one with Chevy Chase on drums, and started writing songs together. After college, Fagen and Becker worked as songwriters for ABC Records, but their quirky compositions didn’t suit other artists, leading them to form Steely Dan in 1972 with producer Gary Katz’s encouragement. The band’s debut, Can’t Buy a Thrill, with hits like “Do It Again,” launched their rise, blending jazz, rock, and pop with meticulous craft.

You can explore more about Donald Fagen on his official website, DonaldFagen.com, which offers updates on his music and tours. His Facebook page shares news and nostalgic posts, while his Instagram features behind-the-scenes glimpses and performance shots. On X, Fagen occasionally posts about his projects and reflections, connecting with fans directly. For deeper fan engagement, check out the Steely Dan Database, a fan-run site with detailed discographies and song info, including “Ruby Baby.” The Steely Dan Fans Facebook group is another vibrant spot where Zoo Freaks can join discussions, share covers, and celebrate Fagen’s work with fellow enthusiasts.