Yacht Rock

 

I was driving and listening to the radio when the radio host introduced a song as a perfect example of a Yacht Rock song. I must be living under a rock because I had never heard this term used before. I just let the classification drift past me giving it very little thought.

Then on Sunday while listening to the K104.7, 70's on Sunday show Jack Kent used the term again.  He said the song Baby Come Back by Player was perfect Yacht Rock. This caught my attention. Still, unfamiliar with this phrase, I did what anyone would do, I Googled it.

In case you're in the same boat (pun intended 😃😃😃) Here is what I found.  Yacht Rock is a subgenre of soft rock that gained popularity in the late 1970's and early 1980's. It is known for its smooth sometimes nautically themed, breezy vibe. It often blends soft rock with elements of smooth jazz and R&B. Whether or not it mentions sailing or yachts, the music evokes a sense of leisure and laid-back sophistication. Think Michael McDonald, Steely Dan, Toto, and yes—Player.

As I read more about the category, I realized I’ve always gravitated toward soft rock for exactly that reason. Soft rock has always been my go-to for mood-shifting. When the world feels chaotic, I turn to those mellow harmonies to regroup and find inner peace. There’s something comforting about the emotional honesty in the lyrics, and the way the music invites you to slow down and breathe. 

I would be interested in your feedback on the term "Yacht Rock" Have you heard of this term before?  Or is it just me who never heard of it before?

The label doesn’t matter much to me; I just know that soft rock, Yacht Rock included, keeps me company—whether I’m sailing through my day or stalled in Charlotte’s gridlock. So, if you’re ever in need of a musical escape, I highly recommend diving into the world of Yacht Rock. It’s not just a genre—it’s a vibe. And who knows? You might discover you’ve been a Yacht Rocker all along.