1980 Japanese Pressing With Insert, No Obi. "The Royal Scam" is the fifth studio album by the American rock band Steely Dan, released in 1976. The album is noted for its darker tone and more cynical lyrics compared to the band's previous works. It features complex musical arrangements that blend rock, jazz, and R&B influences. Key tracks on the album include "Kid Charlemagne," "The Fez," and "Haitian Divorce," which showcase the band's intricate musicianship and sophisticated production. The album cover, designed by Larry Zox, depicts a man sleeping on a park bench with skyscrapers looming behind him, adding to the album's overall themes of disillusionment and societal critique.

"The Royal Scam" was produced by Gary Katz and features core members Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, who were known for their meticulous attention to detail and perfectionism in the studio. The album includes contributions from a variety of session musicians, such as guitarist Larry Carlton, drummer Bernard Purdie, and saxophonist Wayne Shorter. While initially not as commercially successful as some of Steely Dan's other albums, "The Royal Scam" has since gained recognition and praise for its sophisticated songwriting and production. It remains a significant work in the band's discography, appreciated for its thematic depth and musical complexity.