Yacht rock is the official genre of the yacht life. This smooth, sweet style of music is all about the true essence of living life on the seas. If you are considering renting a luxury yacht charter from The Advantaged, you need the correct music to help you enjoy yourself to the fullest. Here are ten yacht essentials for your private charter cruise.
Summer Breeze – Seals & Croft
Always included on lists, “Summer Breeze” isn’t universally adored as a yacht rock classic. The creators of the genre argue it isn’t even a yacht rock song. To us, however, its smooth, mellow sound makes it impossible to leave out.
Anything with Michael McDonald
In the world of yacht rock, there is a Mount Rushmore, and front and center on that monument to all things yacht is Michael McDonald. His silky-smooth voice could make the yellow pages sound poetic. McDonald is a quintessential part of the genre and added a touch of honey to every group he touched, including Steely Dan and The Doobie Brothers. Two of our favorite Michael McDonald creations are his solo track “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near)”, and “What a Fool Believes” by the Doobie Brothers.
Rosanna -Toto
Toto, like Michael McDonald, are royalty. With a host of staples of boat-living classics such as the ever-popular “Africa” and “Hold the Line”, it can be tough to pick the best of the bunch, but many consider “Rosanna” to be their quintessential yacht rock staple.
FM – Steely Dan
Steely Dan brought smooth faux-jazz to soft rock and created the perfect soundtrack for yacht living. While pretty much everything they composed should be thought of yacht rock, there are a few tracks that are head and shoulders above the rest. “FM (No Static At All)” is one of those tracks.
Biggest Part of Me – Ambrosia
Written with the help of – you guessed it, Michael McDonald – “Biggest Part of Me” is another can’t miss yacht rock classic. Ambrosia was one of many studio bands formed in the 70s, but like Steely Dan, they too found their niche in yacht rock.
Sailing – Christopher Cross
Perhaps no song is more identifiable with the genre of yacht rock than “Sailing”. Cross burst onto the music scene with his 1980 debut, and this track was his calling card. The song, reaching number one on the charts, took “Song of the Year” at the Grammys. This song is so essentially yacht rock that VH1 named it the most “softsational soft rock song of all time.”
Escape (The Pina Colada Song) – Rupert Holmes
Ask anyone to name a song they consider yacht rock, and you might get a variety of different answers – especially if they aren’t familiar with the genre. A lot of them, however, will likely name “The Pina Colada Song.” “Escape” (as it is officially titled), is often maligned, but it’s catchy, and is the perfect addition to any yachting playlist.
Whenever I Call You Friend – Kenny Loggins & Stevie Nicks
One of Kenny Loggins’ biggest hits, “Whenever I Call You Friend”, is an unforgettable duet with Stevie Nicks. Originally written to be a collaboration with Michael McDonald, the king of yacht rock turned down the song, saying he didn’t get it. Turning to Grammy-winning artist Melissa Manchester, they finished writing the song, but couldn’t perform due to different recording contracts. So, Kenny turned to another friend – Fleetwood Mac’s Stevie Nicks. The result: yacht rock gold.
Take Me Home – Phil Collins
No list is complete without a controversial selection – so what better place to end? While many might not consider Phil Collins to be yacht rock per se, the creators of the genre have given his music their blessing. That said, of all the easy-going Phil Collins songs, our favorite has to be “Take Me Home”. Featuring a hypnotic beat and soothing and evocative lyrics, this is the perfect song for sailing off into the sunset.
The Advantaged Has the Yacht to Match Your Rock
The Advantaged has more than 30 vessels to choose from. With everything from motor yachts, sailing yachts, and even super and mega yachts; there is something perfect for your private party or getaway excursion.
Your private yacht charter excursion not only includes your chosen catering and bartending experiences but can also be tailored to head to specific locations, so you can fully utilize the boat’s amazing sound system. So, ready to party? What are you waiting for? Give us a call at (305) 358-0745 or contact us to set up a ride.