Diksia.com - If you ever dreamed of sailing on a luxury boat, sipping cocktails, and listening to some smooth tunes, you might be a fan of yacht rock. Yacht rock is a term that describes a style of music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, influenced by soft rock, soul, jazz, and disco. Yacht rock songs typically feature high-quality production, catchy melodies, clean vocals, and a relaxed vibe. Some of the most popular yacht rock artists include Christopher Cross, Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, and Toto.
But what exactly is yacht rock, and how did it become a phenomenon? In this article, we will explore the origins, characteristics, and legacy of yacht rock, and introduce you to some of the essential songs and albums of the genre.
Origins of Yacht Rock
The term “yacht rock” was not used during the heyday of the music it describes. It was coined in 2005 by J.D. Ryznar and his friends, who created an online video series called Yacht Rock, which parodied the lives and careers of some of the genre’s artists. The series used the term as a humorous way to connect the music with the image of wealthy yacht owners enjoying a leisurely lifestyle. The term was also meant to be pejorative, implying that the music was bland, boring, and out of touch with reality.
However, the term caught on among music fans and critics, who started to use it as a way to categorize and appreciate the music that was previously known as “soft rock”, “adult-oriented rock”, or “West Coast sound”. The term also helped to revive the interest and popularity of the genre, as well as its artists, who had been largely forgotten or dismissed by the mainstream music industry.
Characteristics of Yacht Rock
Yacht rock is not a clearly defined genre, but rather a broad and flexible term that encompasses a variety of musical styles and influences. However, there are some common elements that can be identified as characteristic of yacht rock, such as:
- Smoothness: Yacht rock songs are smooth in both sound and mood, creating a soothing and pleasant atmosphere. The songs often feature soft rock instruments, such as electric guitars, keyboards, synthesizers, and saxophones, as well as smooth soul vocals, harmonies, and backing singers. The songs also avoid heavy distortion, loud drums, or aggressive rhythms, opting for a more mellow and polished sound.
- Sophistication: Yacht rock songs are sophisticated in both production and composition, reflecting the high level of skill and craftsmanship of the artists. The songs often feature complex arrangements, intricate melodies, and clever lyrics, as well as influences from jazz, fusion, R&B, and disco. The songs also showcase the technical abilities and versatility of the musicians, who often played multiple instruments and experimented with different genres and sounds.
- Catchiness: Yacht rock songs are catchy and memorable, appealing to a wide and diverse audience. The songs often feature catchy hooks, choruses, and refrains, as well as sing-along lyrics and melodies. The songs also balance the smoothness and sophistication with a sense of fun and humor, making them enjoyable and entertaining.
Artists of Yacht Rock
Yacht rock is not limited to a specific group of artists, but rather a loose and inclusive term that can apply to any artist that fits the criteria of the genre. However, there are some artists that are widely considered as the pioneers and representatives of yacht rock, such as:
- Christopher Cross: Christopher Cross is one of the most successful and influential yacht rock artists, who rose to fame in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His debut album, Christopher Cross (1979), won five Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year. His songs, such as “Sailing”, “Ride Like the Wind”, and “Arthur’s Theme (Best That You Can Do)”, are considered as yacht rock classics, featuring smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and nautical themes.
- Kenny Loggins: Kenny Loggins is another prominent yacht rock artist, who started his career as a folk rock singer-songwriter in the early 1970s, before transitioning to a more pop rock and soft rock style in the late 1970s and early 1980s. His songs, such as “This Is It”, “Heart to Heart”, and “Footloose”, are known for their upbeat and energetic vibe, as well as their collaboration with other yacht rock artists, such as Michael McDonald, Steve Perry, and David Foster.
- Michael McDonald: Michael McDonald is one of the most distinctive and recognizable voices of yacht rock, who has been involved in various projects and collaborations throughout his career. He was a member of the Doobie Brothers, a rock band that incorporated elements of soul, R&B, and jazz in their music, especially after McDonald joined them in 1975. He also had a successful solo career, as well as worked with other yacht rock artists, such as Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, and Steely Dan. His songs, such as “What a Fool Believes”, “I Keep Forgettin’”, and “Yah Mo B There”, are known for their soulful vocals, smooth keyboards, and catchy grooves.
- Steely Dan: Steely Dan is one of the most acclaimed and influential yacht rock bands, who combined rock, jazz, pop, and R&B in their music. The band was formed by Donald Fagen and Walter Becker, who were the core members and songwriters of the band, along with various session musicians and guest artists. Their songs, such as “Reelin’ in the Years”, “Do It Again”, and “Hey Nineteen”, are known for their complex and sophisticated arrangements, witty and cryptic lyrics, and polished and refined production.
- Toto: Toto is another popular and successful yacht rock band, who blended rock, pop, soul, and jazz in their music. The band was formed by a group of session musicians, who had worked with various artists, such as Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, and Michael Jackson. Their songs, such as “Hold the Line”, “Rosanna”, and “Africa”, are known for their catchy and anthemic choruses, diverse and eclectic influences, and high-quality and professional musicianship.
Legacy of Yacht Rock
Yacht rock is a genre that has endured and evolved over time, despite its initial negative reception and criticism. Yacht rock has influenced and inspired many artists and genres, such as:
- Chillwave: Chillwave is a genre of electronic music that emerged in the late 2000s and early 2010s, characterized by its lo-fi and nostalgic sound, influenced by 1980s pop and synth-pop. Chillwave artists, such as Toro y Moi, Washed Out, and Neon Indian, have cited yacht rock as one of their influences, and have incorporated elements of yacht rock, such as smooth vocals, synthesizers, and saxophones, in their music.
- Vaporwave: Vaporwave is another genre of electronic music that emerged in the early 2010s, characterized by its sampling and manipulation of 1980s and 1990s pop and corporate music, creating a surreal and nostalgic aesthetic. Vaporwave artists, such as Macintosh Plus, Blank Banshee, and Saint Pepsi, have used yacht rock songs and samples as sources for their music, and have created subgenres, such as mallsoft and future funk, that are influenced by yacht rock.
- City Pop: City pop is a genre of Japanese pop music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s, influenced by Western pop, rock, soul, and jazz. City pop artists, such as Tatsuro Yamashita, Mariya Takeuchi, and Anri, have created songs that are similar to yacht rock, featuring smooth vocals, catchy melodies, and sophisticated production. City pop has also experienced a revival and popularity in recent years, thanks to the internet and platforms, such as YouTube and Spotify.
Conclusion
Yacht rock is a genre of music that has a rich and diverse history, as well as a loyal and passionate fan base. Yacht rock songs are smooth, sophisticated, and catchy, and can transport the listener to a world of luxury and leisure. Yacht rock artists are talented and versatile, and have created some of the most memorable and iconic songs of all time. Yacht rock is a genre that deserves respect and recognition, and can be enjoyed by anyone who loves good music.
