“You have cultural icons who are celebrities to the people. That kind of scares people in a political climate who want control. They can't control them, so all they can do is make the press take control, debase these people and try to take their credibility.” »read more
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Songfacts: You can leave comments about the song at the bottom of the page.
This is a song about people from Puerto Rico who immigrated to New York in the '50s and '60s hoping to secure the American Dream only to find discrimination and hate from the native population. (thanks, Big Moe - Miami, FL)
The album cover of The Royal Scam features a homeless man laying on a bench. Behind him are monolithic skyscrapers topped with the snarling heads of a wolf, snake, alligator and bear. This dark, eerie cover sets the stage for a cynical album. (thanks, Steve - chicago, IL)
More songs by Steely Dan
More songs about racism or discrimination
More songs that deal with immigration
Comments:
I've always been a big fan. I just love Fagan's voice. Chip
- Chip, stratford, CT
Because Fagan sings "St. John" instead of "San Juan", I never made the connection with Puerto Rico until I read it on Songfacts...
- Steve, New York, NY
This song is very symbolic about Big Corporations looking for cheap labor. A "Royal Scam" indeed!
- Spence, Brooklyn, NY
Great show opener at the Beacon in NYC last week.
The horns blasting a stomping beat, and on to the stage walk Becker & Fagen. You could feel the glory.
Great show!
- Andy, Rockaway , NY