Three Best Steve Miller Songs (1970-1973)

Steve Miller, c. '73 (YouTube)

Steve Miller‘s 1970s output consists of two entirely different styles. There’s the extension of his psychedelic ’60′s blues rock sound and his post-Joker repertoire that includes the songs we all know and love (and have heard on countless TV commercials). Herein we consider the former: his Three Best Songs from 1970-1973.

#3. “The Gangster Is Back” (from Rock Love)

Though Rock Love was generally panned by critics as in-genuine and self-indulgent, “The Gangster Is Back” is an important cut from Miller’s early-’70s catalog. It was among the first of his songs to properly integrate his blues roots with his rock-and -oll sensibility. It didn’t quite make the grade — and the album was a flop — but it’s a benchmark in his musical development.

#2. “Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma” (from The Joker)

Whereas “Gangster of Love” falls short, “Shu Ba Da Du Ma Ma Ma Ma” has it all: the slight tint of psychedelia, a touch of the blues, a pressing tempo and a whole lot of funk. No hippies were harmed in the recording of this record but Dick Thompson did do time for killing a Hammond organ.

1. “The Joker” (from The Joker)

For hardcore Steve Miller fans (like myself), there are plenty of cuts that could easily be #1 on this list (including a couple of more from this album). But “The Joker” has to win the crown for best Steve Miller song of the early ’70s. It’s sexy. It’s funny. And it flawlessly blends slide guitar blues, early-’70s pop and country twang into a 3-minute, 29-second gas that still stands strong today.

Try not to sing along.

How do your picks stack up against ours? Find more ‘Three Best Songs’ for other artists here.

Check out more Michael’s articles at MichaelVerity.com.