The 25 Greatest Yacht Rock Songs of All Time

It’s getting warmer out! So let’s bring out some classic yacht rock! 🛥🎶🌊

Matt Mitchell, of pastemagazine.com, discusses “The 25 Greatest Yacht Rock Songs of All Time”…

What the hell is yacht rock?

Well, the internet has agreed that its defining sonic and aesthetical traits are broad. I’d have to agree, as it’s a sub-genre that stretches into everything from prog and pop to blue-eyed soul, jazz, disco, funk and R&B. But, at the end of the day, yacht rock is a smooth gesture of soft rock, and, from 1972 through 1982, few factions of mainstream music were as elemental or beloved. I was speaking with someone just the other day about this, about how I cannot come up with a solid explanation for yacht rock. It’s a style of music delivered through vibes and energy. I can hear a song and say “that’s a yacht rock song,” but don’t expect me to elaborate. When you know, you know! That’s why “Dreams” by Fleetwood Mac is not on this list. While it’s been featured on rankings from other publications, it’s not a yacht rock song to me. Sorry to all “Dreams” fans who were expecting it to make an appearance. It made the Top 5 of our best Fleetwood Mac songs ranking, though.

Photo Cred: Paste Magazine

Now, I am afraid of boats, so I can’t really say for sure whether or not all of these songs would make for a good seaside experience. I’ll let you be the judge. But, then again, all of this is arbitrary, so let’s just all enjoy it together. Oh, and if you came to this list hoping—or expecting—to see “Escape (The Piña Colada Song)” get mentioned, then you might as well just click out of this page now. I will not stand for any Rupert Holmes inclusion, especially not an inclusion of one of the worst songs ever written. But, if you’re game to stick around and hear me out, then please see below for my picks for the 25 greatest yacht rock songs of all time. Please be advised: I am only choosing one song per artist. And feel free to sound off in the comments about what I missed or what I’m wrong on! So, without further ado…