About The Song
“Do It Again” is a 1972 song by Steely Dan from their debut album “Can’t Buy a Thrill.” The single version differs from the album version by shortening the intro and outro and omitting the organ solo. The composer of “Do It Again” by Steely Dan is Donald Fagen and Walter Becker. It became a classic rock staple, peaking at number 6 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
The meaning of Steely Dan’s “Do It Again” revolves around themes of self-destructive behavior, reincarnation, and the cyclical nature of life. The song addresses common human motivations like money, violence, and relationships with women, depicting how these can lead to self-destructive patterns. It tells the story of a man who returns to Las Vegas after initially winning big but subsequently losing everything, symbolizing the cyclical nature of experiences and temptations. Overall, “Do It Again” delves into human desires and the repetitive nature of life experiences, cautioning against the destructive consequences of certain behaviors.
Lyrics
[Verse 1]
In the mornin' you go gunnin'
For the man who stole your water
And you fire 'til he is done in
But they catch you at the border
And the mourners are all sangin'
As they drag you by your feet
But the hangman isn't hangin'
And they put you on the street
[Chorus]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
[Verse 2]
When you know she's no high climber
Then you find your only friend
In a room with your two timer
And you're sure you're near the end
Then you love a little wild one
And she brings you only sorrow
All the time you know she's smilin'
You'll be on your knees tomorrow
[Chorus]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
[Instrumental break]
[Verse 3]
Now you swear and kick and beg us
That you're not a gambling man
Then you find you're back in Vegas
With a handle in your hand
Your black cards can make you money
So you hide them when you're able
In the land of milk and honey
You must put them on the table
[Outro]
Yeah, you go back, Jack, do it again
Wheel turnin' 'round and 'round
You go back, Jack, do it again
[Instrumental outro]