Beginner’s Guide to Yacht Rock: Top 5 Essential Albums
Yacht rock, soft rock, call it what you will. This genre emerged in the 1970s and occasionally dipped into the 80s as well. While not as rebellious or challenging as heavy metal or punk, yacht rock was adored by fans for its smooth sound and top-tier musicianship. Despite critics’ disdain, it has become the ultimate guilty pleasure genre, even spawning an HBO Max series called Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary.
Yacht rock’s vague boundaries encompass artists like The Doobie Brothers, Loggins & Messina, and Christopher Cross. These musicians, mostly bearded gentlemen, created sublime music that resonated with audiences and showcased their musical prowess. While genre lines may blur, their mark on music history is undeniable.
For those looking to dive into yacht rock, here are five essential albums to get you started:
1. Loggins & Messina – “Full Sail” (1973)
Kenny Loggins and Jim Messina joined forces to create this album, featuring hits like “Lahaina” and “Watching The River Run.” This release defined the yacht rock sound and set the stage for future artists to follow.
2. Boz Scaggs – “Silk Degrees” (1976)
Boz Scaggs found success with this album, collaborating with members from Toto to produce hits like “Lowdown” and “Lido Shuffle.” “Silk Degrees” showcases Scaggs’ smooth pop sensibilities and solidified his place in yacht rock history.
3. Steely Dan – “Aja” (1977)
Known for their sophisticated jazz-rock sound, Steely Dan’s album “Aja” pushed the boundaries of the yacht rock genre. Featuring intricate arrangements and funky jazz influences, this album remains a cornerstone of the movement.
While opinions may vary on what truly constitutes yacht rock, these albums provide a glimpse into the genre’s allure and timeless appeal. So kick back, relax, and let the smooth sounds of yacht rock transport you to a bygone musical era.
*Stream Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary on HBO Max to dive deeper into the genre’s history and influence.
