Yacht rock, a genre that has sparked debate among music fans for years, is a style of music that emerged in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Artists like the Doobie Brothers, Toto, and Christopher Cross dominated the airwaves with their smooth melodies and expertly crafted songs. However, with the advent of MTV and the rise of pop icons like Madonna and Michael Jackson, yacht rock fell out of favor and was relegated to the realm of “soft rock.”
In 2005, comedians J.D. Ryznar and Steve Huey created a web series called “Yacht Rock,” which humorously depicted the behind-the-scenes antics of musicians like Kenny Loggins and Jimmy Buffett as they created their yacht rock hits. This series sparked a resurgence of interest in the genre, leading to the creation of three Sirius XM stations and tribute bands like Yachtley Crew.
Director Garret Price, known for his documentary on Woodstock ’99, delved into the world of yacht rock with his film “Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary,” which explores the origins and impact of the genre. Through interviews with key figures like Michael McDonald, Christopher Cross, and Kenny Loggins, Price sheds light on how yacht rock has gained a new, younger fanbase.
While some artists initially viewed the term “yacht rock” as kitschy, many have come to appreciate its role in reviving their music and introducing them to a new generation of listeners. However, not everyone was on board with the genre’s revival. Steely Dan co-founder Fagen, known for his curmudgeonly demeanor, initially resisted participating in the documentary but eventually relented.
Despite the controversy surrounding Steely Dan’s inclusion in the genre, Price emphasizes the common roots of yacht rock bands in R&B, soul, funk, and jazz. Modern artists like Questlove and Thundercat cite yacht rock as a major influence on their music, highlighting the genre’s lasting impact.
As “Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary” premieres on HBO, Price hopes to showcase the humor, reverence, and love for the genre that has captivated audiences for decades. With its cross-generational appeal, yacht rock continues to sail on, bringing joy to music fans old and new.
