Only A Fool Would Say That
Steely Dan · Collected [2006]
Of salads and sun
Only a fool would say that
A boy with a plan
A natural man
Wearing a white stetson hat
Unhand that gun begone
There's no one to fire upon
If he's holding it high
He's telling a lie
CHORUS:
I heard it was you
Talkin' 'bout a world
Where all is free
It just couldn't be
And only a fool would say that
The man in the street
Draggin' his feet
Don't wanna hear the bad news
Imagine your face
There is his place
Standing inside his brown shoes
You do his nine to five
Drag yourself home half alive
And there on the screen
A man with a dream
CHORUS
Anybody on the street
Has murder in his eyes
You feel no pain
And you're younger
Then you realize
CHORUS
Only A Fool Would Say That
Only A Fool Would Say That stands as a sophisticated example of Steely Dan's intricate songwriting and polished production. Released during the band's early period, the track showcases the duo's signature blend of jazz-inflected rock and complex harmonic structures. The recording features the tight, precise musicianship that defined their sound, with layered instrumentation creating a rich sonic texture. As part of their extensive discography, the song reflects the meticulous attention to detail that Walter Becker and Donald Fagen applied to their studio work. It remains a notable song in their catalogue, illustrating the band's ability to craft memorable melodies within a framework of sophisticated pop and rock. The track endures as a testament to their enduring influence on the genre.