Greatest Yacht Rock songs of all time

Coined in 2005, Yacht Rock describes the smooth, sophisticated soft rock of the late ’70s and early ’80s. It’s defined by glossy production, clean vocals, and lyrics that bring about images of a life full of leisure. Australia’s music magazine Mixdown has created a playlist of the ten greatest Yacht Rock songs of all time:

Sailing – Christopher Cross
If only for the title, this track is the epitome of Yacht Rock. It’s smooth and a little luxurious, wrapped up in bittersweet nostalgia. The chorus is made to be sung in out-of-tune harmonies with whoever’s nearby, preferably while leaning against a railing with a cold drink in hand. Cross’s vocals float effortlessly over pristine production that defined the era.

What a Fool Believes – Doobie Brothers
Michael McDonald’s voice is a treasure, and this track proves it. The piano groove is infectious, the key changes as smooth as the bass, and that falsetto hits different every single time. It won Record of the Year at the Grammys for good reason—this is pure yacht fuel. – Full report