What Is Yacht Rock?

Welcome to the world of Yacht Rock! At Sugar The Band, we are frequently asked, “What is Yacht Rock?” Well, there are different interpretations. Some define it as Soft Rock from the 1970s and 1980s, while others specify a specific period between 1977 and 1984. Many also associate Yacht Rock with Westcoast Rock, incorporating smooth jazz, downbeat disco, and soul. Some even consider Jimmy Buffet’s nautical-themed Caribbean-style music as Yacht Rock. In the end, Yacht Rock is a genre we all love, filled with music that makes you want to groove and dance.

It’s perfectly fine to add any song that floats your boat to your Yacht Rock playlist. However, some Yacht Rock purists may argue and identify certain songs as “NYacht” Rock (Not Yacht Rock). It’s hard to explain, but you’ll know Yacht Rock when you hear it.

Let’s explore some examples of Yacht Rock bands from that era: Hall and Oates, Doobie Brothers, Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross, Toto, Ambrosia, Lionel Richie, Little River Band, Steely Dan, Boz Scaggs, Eagles, Linda Ronstadt, Fleetwood Mac, and many more. Other key contributors to the familiar Yacht Rock sound include David Foster and Jay Graydon, who seemed involved in almost every Yacht Rock album. Additionally, renowned session musicians such as Jeff Porcaro on drums, The Pages on vocals, Steve Lukather on guitar, Steve Gadd, and others have left their mark. Electric pianos, acoustic guitars, strings, and beautiful vocal harmonies define our favorite Yacht Rock tunes.

Yacht Rock is gaining popularity nationwide, with stations like Sirius/XM Yacht Rock radio featuring this unique genre. In fact, last year, the Dallas Observer featured an article titled “Yacht Rock Is Now the Official Music of Dallas City Council” when Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson tweeted that yacht rock is “the official music of the Dallas City Council.” (Dallas Observer article)

At Sugar The Band, we absolutely love Yacht Rock music! Join us on a journey through this nostalgic and captivating genre. Let the smooth sounds of Yacht Rock elevate your event and create an unforgettable experience. Contact us today, and let’s set sail on a musical voyage you won’t forget!