Yacht rock is a genre of soft rock music that emerged in the United States during the late 1970s and early 1980s. It is characterized by smooth melodies, polished production, and lyrics that often celebrate the lavish lifestyle associated with yachting and boating. The term “yacht rock” is used to describe this genre of music, but many people may wonder why it is called that.
The term “yacht rock” was coined in the mid-2000s by music critics and bloggers to describe the smooth, polished sound of the soft rock music of the late 1970s and early 1980s. The term was originally used as a tongue-in-cheek reference to the affluent, privileged lifestyle associated with yachting and boating, which is often celebrated in the lyrics of the songs in this genre. The music is often associated with the West Coast of the United States and the laid-back, sun-soaked lifestyle of Southern California in the 1970s and early 1980s.
The origins of yacht rock can be traced back to the mid-1970s, when soft rock and adult contemporary music were beginning to emerge as popular genres. At this time, a number of artists began to experiment with a more polished, sophisticated sound that was heavily influenced by jazz and soul music. This new style of music, which was characterized by smooth melodies, intricate arrangements, and polished production, would come to be known as yacht rock.
Some of the key artists associated with yacht rock include Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Christopher Cross, Steely Dan, Toto, and Hall & Oates. These artists all shared a similar sound, characterized by smooth harmonies, intricate instrumental arrangements, and polished production. Many of their songs celebrated the hedonistic lifestyle associated with yachting and boating, with lyrics that often referenced luxury boats, exotic destinations, and beautiful women.
Despite its initially tongue-in-cheek name, yacht rock has become a beloved genre among music fans, and has enjoyed a resurgence in popularity in recent years. The genre has been celebrated in a number of ways, including a popular podcast called “Yacht Rock,” which explores the history of the genre and its key players, as well as a number of yacht rock-themed cruises and festivals.
In conclusion, the term “yacht rock” was coined in the mid-2000s to describe the smooth, polished sound of soft rock music from the late 1970s and early 1980s. The term was originally used as a tongue-in-cheek reference to the affluent, privileged lifestyle associated with yachting and boating, which is often celebrated in the lyrics of the songs in this genre. Despite its initially humorous name, yacht rock has become a beloved genre among music fans, and continues to enjoy a devoted following today.