Yacht Rock: The Revival of 70s & 80s Soft Rock Magic

Pop culture historians often revisit and reassess past trends, and one genre currently undergoing a renaissance is the soft rock of the 1970s and 1980s. Once simply considered mellow pop rock, this style has been retroactively dubbed “Yacht Rock,” a term popularized by JD Ryznar and Steve Huey in their 2005 web series. Now, it’s the subject of a fascinating documentary, Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary, created by Bill Simmons for his Music Box series.

In the late 1970s and early 1980s, the term “yacht rock” had not yet entered the musical lexicon, but the sound it describes was already unmistakable. Artists like The Doobie Brothers, Toto, and Christopher Cross dominated the airwaves with their smooth, meticulously produced tracks, blending elements of soft rock, R&B, and jazz. Christopher Cross, in particular, became a defining figure of this era, achieving monumental success at the 1980 Grammy Awards. His ethereal ballad “Sailing” captured listeners’ imaginations and swept the awards, cementing its place as an anthem of the easygoing yet sophisticated aesthetic that would later be labeled “yacht rock.”

This film explores this tightly knit community of musicians who pioneered this breezy, feel-good genre. Despite not being widely celebrated at the time as a pinnacle of rock music, these artists achieved significant commercial success and are still pertinent to dedicated fans today. The documentary also highlights how Yacht Rock has found renewed relevance in modern pop culture, blending nostalgia with a fresh perspective.

What began as a niche parody evolved into a full-blown cultural resurgence. Yacht Rock sparked a renewed appreciation for the genre, leading to the creation of three Sirius XM stations dedicated to its smooth vibes. It also inspired a wave of tribute bands, including the ever-popular Yachtley Crew, who bring the signature sound to life for audiences craving a nostalgic escape. This renaissance has cemented Yacht Rock as more than just a genre—it’s a vibe, a lifestyle, and a celebration of the soft rock era’s enduring appeal.

Max’s Yacht Rock: A DOCKumentary humorously depicts these artists as toiling away to craft the smooth, jazzy sounds that became synonymous with the laid-back luxury of a yacht party—possibly fueled by the excesses of the era. Naturally, the music itself plays a central role in every episode, showcasing the quintessential breezy harmonies and mellow grooves of the genre.

Rock documentaries often benefit from rich archives of music, interviews, and stock footage, and Yacht Rock is no exception. This exploration is not just about the music but the culture it represents—smooth vibes, sun-soaked harmonies, and an indelible mark on the musical landscape of its era.