Yacht Rock

What is Yacht Rock?

Up until a year ago, I hadn’t even heard of Yacht Rock.  This may be due to my age (I was still listening to Disney soundtracks in the mid-70’s!), but I had to investigate, it sounded intriguing.

Here is the definitive definition of Yacht Rock according to HoustonianMag “Yacht rock is music, primarily created between 1976 and ’84, that can be characterized as smooth and melodic, and typically combines elements of jazz, rhythm and blues, and rock”.  There seem to be quite a few bands/artists that are wrongly attributed to this genre, especially Fleetwood Mac. Hall & Oates and America.  Don’t even murmur the words Rupert Holmes’ “Escape” the “experts” will have you walking the plank!  If you want to read more then Rolling Stone has a great article on YachtRock.

Meanwhile here is some YachtRock tuneage to get you started:

1.  The Doobie Brothers – What a Fool Believes – The top of the pile for YachtRock.

2.  Toto – Rozanna

3.  Steely Dan FM (No static at all)

4.  And we can’t leave out Christopher Cross – Sailing

5.  Last but by no means least is Michael McDonald – I Keep Forgettin’

Houstonianmag is very particular about what song constitutes a place in the yacht rock hall of fame. I think that if it’s slow and melodic and you enjoy listening to it while cruising along the Florida Keys or relaxing at anchor in the BVI’s then include it in your playlist.  I have now started a YR playlist and will be adding to it regularly and Hall & Oates and Rupert Holmes will have a place at the top!

If you want to meet other sailing devotees with a penchant for rocking on yachts then why not visit our friendly sailing community.  Sailors meet on Lovesail for dating, sailing friendships and crewing opportunities.