Yacht rock; the secret soundtrack to summer
The sound started in the late 1970s and early 1980s and was categorized as adult-oriented rock, dominating the dial in your dad’s old Dodge.
Today, it’s called Yacht Rock and it dominates summer days on the boat and summer nights around the fire pit.
Yacht rock is known by its smooth, mellow sound, often featuring catchy melodies, soft rock instrumentation, and polished production.
What channel is Yacht Rock Radio?
Every summer, SiriusXM offers a dedicated channel for yacht rock enthusiasts. The channel, known as “Yacht Rock Radio,” is available on SiriusXM from Memorial Day through Labor Day, so you still have several weeks of easy listening to enjoy.
This year, Yacht Rock Radio is on SiriusXM Channel 17. You can also search the SiriusXM app for Yacht Rock Radio.
Boat music?
Yacht rock offers an easy soundtrack for a leisurely day on the water, a laid-back summer evening, or chill day at the beach.
Yacht rock — your less hip friends might call it boat music — features a variety of artists and hits from the late ’70s and early ’80s, including some quintessential tracks:
“Sailing” by Christopher Cross - A classic yacht rock anthem
“What a Fool Believes” by The Doobie Brothers - Featuring Michael McDonald’s signature vocals, this song defines yacht rock.
“Ride Like the Wind” by Christopher Cross - Another hit by Cross, this song is a yacht rock favorite.
“Africa” by Toto - This track has become an iconic yacht rock tune.
“Rosanna” by Toto - Known for its rhythm and harmonies, this song is typical of yacht rock.
“Steal Away” by Robbie Dupree - This track’s breezy sound and catchy hook make it a yacht rock staple.
“You Make My Dreams” by Hall & Oates - Known for its upbeat tempo and infectious chorus, this song is a yacht rock must.
New yacht rock songs; what is nu yacht
Despite the late 20 century nostalgia most yacht rock evokes, new artists are making music inspired by the yacht rock genre, often referred to as "nu yacht" or "yacht rock revival."
Here’s a few new yacht rock artists to check out:
Young Gun Silver Fox: This duo marries the essence of the classic yacht rock sound with modern production techniques. Check out: "Emilia," "Lenny," "Midnight in Richmond"
Tuxedo: Tuxedo blends yacht rock with funk for a modern twist. Check out: "Do It," "Number One," "Shy"
Thundercat: Thundercat's music gives off yacht rock-inspired vibes. Check out: "Show You the Way" (featuring Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins), "Them Changes," "Dragonball Durag"
Poolside: Poolside's music often gives off the laid-back vibe associated with yacht rock. Check out: "Harvest Moon," "California Sunset," "Feel Alright"
Does SiriusXM have a Halloween channel?
Seriously? We’re just getting into the swing of summer and you’re thinking about doing the Monster Mash?
Yes. SiriusXM does have a Halloween station. SCREAM radio last year aired on SiriusXM Channel 107, though the satellite radio company hasn’t yet announced information on SCREAM 2024, including a start date.
The spooky songs, ghost stories and Halloween antics usually go live in early October and last through mid November.
What channel is SiriusXM Holly?
Christmas, already? Well, we are nearing Christmas in July, so it makes sense.
The annual winter holiday channel lineup features a selection of stations for different genres of holiday music.
The mainstay, Holly plays modern Christmas and winter holiday songs. Last year, Holly went live in early November and ended on the day after Christmas.
No announcement has been made yet on what channel Holly will land on this year.
This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Yacht rock is part of summer; where to find it
