Tomorrow’s Girls

The Zoo Crew is spinning "Tomorrow’s Girls" by Donald Fagen from his 1993 album Kamakiriad, and the Zoo Freaks are in for a treat with this funky, sci-fi-inspired track. One piece of trivia that stands out is the song’s music video, which features actor Rick Moranis. According to a post on r/SteelyDan, Moranis, a huge Steely Dan fan, learned that Fagen wanted a “Rick Moranis type” for a previous video and jumped at the chance to appear in this one. The video, remastered in 4K, plays up the song’s quirky narrative about extraterrestrial women landing on Earth, blending humor with Fagen’s jazzy groove. Fans on Reddit have praised the track’s infectious rhythm, with one user noting the chord on “MORROW” gives them “the feels,” highlighting its emotional pull despite the playful alien theme.

Another tidbit comes from the Reprise Records press kit for Kamakiriad, which describes “Tomorrow’s Girls” as a story where the narrator is caught in a quiet town during a sci-fi disaster, questioning if it’s a nightmare or reality. The song’s concept ties into the album’s futuristic narrative about a journey in a steam-driven car called the Kamakiri. Music critic S. Victor Aaron, writing for Something Else!, called it a “near-perfect rock and soul (and jazz) pop tune,” praising its Fender Rhodes riff and soaring chorus. The track reached #20 on the Mainstream Rock Tracks chart in 1993, though Aaron noted it deserved more attention, overshadowed by the grunge wave of the era. A post on X from 2023 also shared a nostalgic photo of Fagen and Moranis on the video set, capturing the song’s cult following.

Donald Fagen began his career in the late 1960s, born on January 10, 1948, in Passaic, New Jersey. His early exposure to jazz and R&B shaped his distinctive sound. While studying at Bard College, he met Walter Becker, and the two bonded over their love for jazz and sardonic humor. They started writing songs together, initially as staff songwriters for ABC Records. Their songs, too complex for other artists, led producer Gary Katz to encourage them to form their own band, Steely Dan, in 1972. Named after a reference from William S. Burroughs’ Naked Lunch, the band’s debut album, Can’t Buy a Thrill, featured hits like “Do It Again” and “Reelin’ in the Years,” establishing their sophisticated blend of rock, jazz, and pop. Fagen’s role as lead singer and keyboardist, alongside Becker’s guitar and production, defined Steely Dan’s sound through the 1970s.

After Steely Dan’s 1980 album Gaucho, Fagen and Becker parted ways, and Fagen launched his solo career with The Nightfly in 1982, a platinum-selling album reflecting his 1950s upbringing. Kamakiriad, his second solo effort, reunited him with Becker as producer and marked a return to their collaborative magic. Fagen’s official website, www.donaldfagen.com, offers updates on his music and tour dates. His Facebook page connects with fans, sharing news and archival content, while his Instagram features occasional posts about performances. On X, Fagen’s account is active, engaging with fans and posting about his work. Fan communities thrive on platforms like the Steely Dan Official Fan Group on Facebook, where enthusiasts discuss Fagen’s solo work and Steely Dan’s legacy. The Steely Dan website also serves as a hub for fans, with forums and discographies celebrating Fagen’s career.