A Cynical Yet Groovy Commentary on the FM Radio Landscape of the Late 70s
This isn’t just a song; it’s a snapshot of a very specific moment in music history. Released in 1978 as part of the soundtrack for the film FM, this track perfectly encapsulates the slick, sophisticated sound that Steely Dan had perfected by the late 70s. It peaked at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100, a respectable showing for a band known more for their album-oriented rock than chart-topping singles. The song has since become a staple on classic rock radio, solidifying its place in the musical canon.
The story behind “FM (No Static at All)” is as interesting as the song itself. The film FM was a somewhat satirical look at the world of FM radio, a format that was rapidly gaining popularity at the time, challenging the dominance of AM radio. The film follows the staff of a fictional radio station, QKQK, and their struggles with corporate pressures and the changing landscape of the music industry. Steely Dan, known for their cynical and often ironic lyrics, were the perfect choice to contribute to the soundtrack.
The song, penned by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, is a clever commentary on the perceived differences between AM and FM radio. AM radio was often associated with Top 40 hits and simpler, more straightforward music, while FM radio was seen as the home of album-oriented rock, jazz, and more experimental sounds. The lyrics of “FM (No Static at All)” playfully contrast these two formats, with lines like “No static at all” referring to the clearer signal of FM radio, and “Living in the kingdom of cool” suggesting the more sophisticated and discerning audience of FM.
But there’s more to it than just a simple comparison of radio formats. The song also touches on the commercialization of FM radio, the pressure to conform to trends, and the loss of artistic integrity. This is evident in lines like “The Cuervo Gold, the fine Colombian / Make tonight a wonderful thing,” which subtly hints at the influence of advertising and corporate sponsorship on the radio industry. It also reflects the band’s own sometimes fraught relationship with the industry.
Musically, “FM (No Static at All)” is a masterpiece of studio craftsmanship. The song features the band’s signature blend of jazz harmonies, rock rhythms, and intricate arrangements. The production is incredibly polished, with every instrument perfectly placed in the mix. The song is also notable for its use of session musicians, a hallmark of Steely Dan’s meticulous approach to recording. The smooth, almost effortless feel of the track belies the complex and demanding work that went into its creation.
For those of us who remember the late 70s, “FM (No Static at All)” is more than just a song; it’s a time capsule. It evokes memories of cruising in cars with the windows down, listening to the radio, and discovering new music. It’s a reminder of a time when FM radio was a vital part of youth culture, a place where you could hear music that you wouldn’t find anywhere else. It’s a nostalgic trip back to a simpler time, a time when the radio was king, and Steely Dan were its royal court. The song’s enduring appeal lies not only in its musical brilliance but also in its ability to transport us back to that era. It’s a reminder of how music can capture a moment in time, preserving it for generations to come. This is a song that continues to resonate with listeners, reminding us of the power of music and the magic of FM radio in its heyday.