Which yacht rock song we sailing to?

Okay, fellow smooth sailors, let's talk yacht rock! If you're anything like me, you've probably spent countless hours daydreaming about cruising the coast, wind in your hair, a vintage cologne commercial playing out in your mind, all to the perfect soundtrack. And what is that soundtrack? Yacht rock, of course! But what exactly is yacht rock, and which songs truly earn a spot on that exclusive top-tier playlist? For me, it's that incredibly polished, breezy soft rock from the late '70s and early '80s that just screams sophisticated chill. Think intricate arrangements, smooth vocals, and lyrics that often touch on themes of love, escape, and the good life. It's music that doesn't just play; it transports you straight to a sun-drenched deck. When I think of quintessential yacht rock songs, a few always come to mind. You can't talk about it without mentioning Christopher Cross's 'Sailing'. It's practically the genre's anthem, capturing that effortless, serene feeling. Then there's Kenny Loggins' 'Ride Like The Wind' (with Michael McDonald's unmistakable backing vocals, a true yacht rock staple!) or 'This Is It'. And speaking of Michael McDonald, anything he touched, especially with The Doobie Brothers during his tenure, is pure gold. 'What a Fool Believes' or 'Minute by Minute' are just buttery smooth. Of course, no yacht rock songs list would be complete without Toto's 'Africa'. It's got that epic feel, those intricate harmonies, and a story that takes you on a journey. And for a dose of pure, unadulterated wistful romance, Steely Dan's 'Reelin' In The Years' or 'Peg' are absolutely essential. They have that complex musicianship that elevates the entire genre. If you're just starting your journey into the world of yacht rock, these are fantastic entry points. To build your own ultimate cruise playlist, I’d suggest exploring artists like Ambrosia ('Biggest Part of Me'), Player ('Baby Come Back'), and Robbie Dupree ('Steal Away'). Don’t be afraid to dig a little deeper too; sometimes the lesser-known tracks by these icons are just as perfect. The beauty of yacht rock is its ability to instantly set a mood. It's the background music to your best life, whether you're actually on a yacht, driving down the coast, or just unwinding at home pretending you're in that classic '80s cologne commercial. So, while I've shared some of my top yacht rock songs, I'm genuinely curious: which ones make your ultimate list for setting sail? Let's share our treasures and keep these smooth vibes flowing!