What is Yacht Rock?

Ace, Little River Band, Daryl Hall & John Oates, and an introduction to Yacht Rock

“Sailing

Takes me away to where I've always heard it could be

Just a dream and the wind to carry me

Soon I will be free”

-Christopher Cross

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This week’s Swap is dedicated to really, really smooth music. Even if you don’t know the term, you are unquestionably familiar with the music known as “Yacht Rock.” Our bonus track takes a deep dive into the genre and tells you why you should love yacht rock too.

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How Long by Ace (Adam)

“How long has this been going on?”

I've just come to recognize that Yacht Rock was a big part of my childhood home. I recall listening to artists like the Doobie Brothers and Steely Dan, but the standout memory is Ace's "How Long," a song vividly etched in my mind, capturing the essence of heartbreak, a hallmark of Yacht Rock.

Also available on Apple Music.

Cool Change by Little River Band (Mat)

I can’t hear “Cool Change” without thinking of my dad. He had a Little River Band CD and I listened to it a ton growing up. I even saw them live with him at RiverFest in my current home, Gadsden, AL. Even without that connection, how could I not focus on a track that includes the line “the albatross and the whales, they are my brothers?” “Cool Change” is quintessential Yacht Rock. So smooth. So much passion. Such tight harmonies. Such an intense saxophone solo. So much nautical imagery. Sit back, crank up the volume, and imagine you are out on the sea alone, staring at the full moon like a lover.

Also available on Apple Music.

Rich Girl by Daryl Hall & John Oates

Just this week a work friend (and new Music Swap subscriber) described Hall & Oates as a safe play no matter the company. It’s so true. Put these guys on in almost any setting and the good vibes are sure to turn up a notch.

I can finally describe Yacht Rock thanks to these two things: 1) this week’s Bonus Track and 2) this Yacht Rock top 100 playlist where I gladly saw “Rich Girl” by Hall and Oates.

Also Available on Apple Music.

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Yacht Rock: A Boatload of Fun by Whitney Alexander

I am making my Music Swap debut to sing the praises of the musical genre that's smoother than a freshly polished yacht deck: Yacht Rock.

If you aren't familiar with the genre of music known as "Yacht Rock," I'd like to give you the :15 masterclass. "Yacht Rock" refers to the soft rock that owned the FM airwaves in the late 1970s to early 1980s. In order for music to be characterized as Yacht Rock, it must contain glossy production, breezy vocals, and bouncy rhythms - all elements thought to evoke relaxing bay cruises in Southern California, which is where the genre originated. 

Now, some may scoff at the term "Yacht Rock," associating it with images of mustachioed captains sipping piña coladas while their polyester-clad crew belts out "Sailing" by Christopher Cross. And you know what? They're absolutely right! That is exactly what Yacht Rock is. But here's why that's a fantastic thing:

Firstly, Yacht Rock is the auditory equivalent of slipping into a pair of well-worn boat shoes. It's comfort music at its finest. Whether you're chilling on a yacht (if you're lucky), driving to work, or just doing the dishes, Yacht Rock is the perfect soundtrack for any occasion. Need to relax? Cue up some Michael McDonald and feel your worries melt away like butter on a sun-kissed deck.

Secondly, Yacht Rock has lyrics that are so delightfully cheesy, they're sure to bring a grin to your face. It's like a lyrical treasure hunt for the most ridiculous nautical references imaginable. From smooth sailing metaphors to odes about summer romance on the high seas, Yacht Rock lyrics are as predictable as they are delightful.

And let's not forget the fashion! Just like the music, Yacht Rock fashion is a glorious throwback to a time when polyester was king and oversized sunglasses were a must. Embrace the captain's hat, the deck shoes, and the pastel-colored shirts, my friends. Embrace them like you're about to set sail on the smoothest musical voyage of your life.

In conclusion, Yacht Rock isn't just a genre of music; it's a lifestyle. So next time you're feeling stressed, crank up the Kenny Loggins, put an umbrella in your drink, and let the smooth sounds of Yacht Rock transport you to a world where the only thing you need to worry about is which yacht to buy next. Smooth sailing, my friends. Smooth sailing.

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-Whitney Alexander lives in Gadsden, Alabama, with her husband (and star Music Swap contributor), Mat, their three fantastic kids, and the two best dogs, Boyce (named after the theologian) and Althea (after the Grateful Dead song). Whitney's music Mt. Rushmore evolves by the day, but today's version includes Taylor Swift, Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band, Elton John, and Celine Dion. She's a marketer by day and a reader by night, and she is counting down the days until her Music Swap hat hits the mailbox.

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Sorry we were late this week! Have a smooth weekend, friends!

-TheMusicSwap