"Cousin Dupree" is a single released in 2000 from Steely Dan's album Two Against Nature, also released that year. The female vocals of this song were provided by Carolyn Leonhart.
Background The song's lyrics describe the sexual desires the narrator, Dupree, has for his attractive cousin Janine. In 2001, the song won a Grammy Award for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal.
In July 2006, Steely Dan posted a humorous letter on their website saying that the title of Owen Wilson's film You, Me and Dupree was stolen from their song.Becker and Fagen. Open Letter to the Great Comic Actor, Luke Wilson (July 17, 2006). Accessed October 3, 2006. The film is about a house guest who overstays his welcome; the song's title character is a slacker who is sleeping on his aunt's couch. Owen Wilson defended himself in similarly deadpan comic fashion, stating, "I have never heard the song 'Cousin Dupree' and I don't even know who this gentleman, Mr. Steely Dan, is. I hope this helps to clear things up and I can get back to concentrating on my new movie, 'HEY 19.'"AP Owen Wilson Says 'Dupree' Is No Rip-Off (July 28, 2006). Accessed October 3, 2006
Release The single included live tracks from the band's 90's American tour. "Aja" is taken from the album Alive in America, while the other two songs are exclusive to the single.
Tracklisting
Personnel Donald Fagen – Wurlitzer piano and lead, male vocalist Walter Becker – bass guitar, guitars Leroy Clouden – drums Jon Herington – rhythm guitar Ted Baker – Rhodes piano Carolyn Leonhart – female vocalist Amy Helm – whistling
References
External links Lyrics from Steely Dan website