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Last updated on Mar 4,2025, updated monthly. |
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 1 . Don Henley - The Boys Of SummerProduced by Henley and Mike Campbell, "The Boys of Summer" by Don Henley was released in 1984. The song emerged from a collaboration between Henley, a former Eagle, and Campbell, guitarist for Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Campbell initially recorded an instrumental demo, to which Henley added lyrics. The song addresses themes of nostalgia and loss of innocence. "The Boys of Summer" was critically acclaimed, reaching number 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 and winning the Grammy for Best Male Rock Vocal Performance in 1985. Fans of "Friends" will remember "The Boys of Summer" from the episode "The One With Two Parts (2)" in season 1, during a hospital scene with Ross and Marcel. The music video is directed by Jean-Baptiste Mondino. Writer(s) : Donald Hugh Henley, Michael W Campbell Publisher(s) : Wild Gator Music, Woody Creek Music
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 2 . Eagles - Hole In The WorldThe Eagles' first track without guitarist Don Felder since 1974, "Hole in the World," was penned by Don Henley and Glenn Frey in response to the September 11, 2001 attacks. Henley began crafting the song on the evening of the attacks, with the composition evolving amidst American reactions and the onset of the Iraq War. The single peaked at number 69 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 5 on the Adult Contemporary chart. Produced by the Eagles and Bill Szymczyk, known for his work on classic Eagles albums like "Hotel California," the song received a Grammy nomination for Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals in 2004. Writer(s) : Glenn Lewis Frey, Don Henley Publisher(s) : Privet Songs, Red Cloud Music Featured on the 2003 album The Very Best Of Eagles
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 3 . George Benson - In Your EyesGeorge Benson’s "In Your Eyes," produced by Arif Mardin in 1983, features a rich fusion of jazz-funk, soul, and pop elements, symbolizing Benson’s transition toward mainstream appeal without abandoning his jazz roots. Benson's smooth vocals and expressive guitar are complemented by contributions from accomplished musicians like Steve Gadd on drums and Robbie Buchanan on piano. The song embodies the refined, crossover sound of the period, showcasing Benson’s sophisticated artistry and securing his position as both a jazz and pop icon. Writer(s) : Daniel Grafton (Anthem) Hill, Michael William Masser Publisher(s) : If Dreams Had Wings Music Ltd, Prince Street Music Featured on the 1983 album In Your Eyes
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 4 . Billy Ocean - Caribbean Queen [No More Love on the Run]Initially titled "European Queen," but renamed for different international markets, "Caribbean Queen (No More Love on the Run)" is a 1984 single by Billy Ocean. Co-produced by Keith Diamond, who also worked with Donna Summer and Michael Bolton, the song was recorded with session musicians in New York. It topped the Billboard Hot 100 and R&B charts, winning a Grammy for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance. The music video is directed by Michael Geoghegan. Writer(s) : Billy Ocean, Keith Diamond (USA 1) Publisher(s) : Keith Diamond Music, Zomba Management And Publ Ltd Featured on the 1984 album Suddenly
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 5 . Michael McDonald - I Keep Forgetting [Every Time You’re Near]Released in 1982, "I Keep Forgettin' (Every Time You're Near)" is a song by Michael McDonald. Produced by McDonald himself and Ted Templeman, also known for his work with the Doobie Brothers and Van Halen, this yacht rock staple features rich vocal harmonies and characteristic synths. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has been sampled in numerous hip-hop and R&B tracks, including Warren G and Nate Dogg's "Regulate." For more on Templeman, check out his autobiography co-written with Greg Renoff, titled "Ted Templeman: A Platinum Producer's Life in Music," offering a detailed look at his career and legendary collaborations. Writer(s) : Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller Publisher(s) : Jerry Leiber Music, Mike Stoller Music
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 6 . Chicago - You're the InspirationReleased as the third single from Chicago’s fourteenth studio album, "Chicago 17," in 1984, "You're the Inspiration" threads its way into power ballad territory with Peter Cetera's soaring vocals and David Foster's signature production touch. Once destined for Kenny Rogers, this 4-minute-29-second track secures a No. 3 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 and ascends to No. 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart by early 1985. Accompanied by a dramatic music video, now archived on YouTube, the track helped propel "Chicago 17" to 6× Platinum status under RIAA certification, marking the album as the band's commercial zenith. Its enduring cultural footprint even secured its place in Chicago's 2016 Rock and Roll Hall of Fame set, featuring a reunion with Cetera that fans had eagerly anticipated. The music video is directed by Steven R. Monroe. Writer(s) : James E Ingram, Quincy D Jones, Rodney Temperton, Michael H Mcdonald Publisher(s) : Genevieve Music, Rodsongs, Yellowbrick Road Music, Warner Tamerlane Publishing Co Featured on the 1984 album 17
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 7 . Chicago - Hard To Say I'm Sorry"Hard to Say I'm Sorry" is a song by the band Chicago, released in 1982. The song was produced by David Foster, a renowned producer known for collaborations with artists like Whitney Houston and Céline Dion. During its recording, several session musicians, including Toto members David Paich and Steve Porcaro, contributed synthesizers. The single was notably successful, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming an international hit. It also appeared in the soundtrack of the film "Summer Lovers" (1982), boosting its popularity. Writer(s) : David W Foster, Peter P Cetera Publisher(s) : Peermusic Iii Ltd, Universal Music-Mgb Songs
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 8 . James Ingram - Yah Mo B ThereJames Ingram & Michael McDonald’s “Yah Mo B There,” released in 1983 from Ingram’s album “It’s Your Night,” serves a potent blend of R&B and gospel under Quincy Jones’s production. Co-written with Michael McDonald, Quincy Jones, and Rod Temperton, it fuses spiritual undertones with chart-friendly grooves, peaking at No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 5 on the R&B chart, while landing at No. 44 in the UK. A Grammy-winning anthem, it features a metaphor-laden music video where faith guides a man through perilous paths. The music video is directed by Jeffrey Abelson. Writer(s) : Trevor Stanley Veitch, Gregory Richard Mathieson Publisher(s) : Slapshot Music, Mighty Mathieson Music Featured on the 1983 album It's Your Night
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 9 . Billy Ocean - LoverboyCo-produced by Keith Diamond and recorded in New York, "Loverboy" is a 1984 single by Billy Ocean that blends rock, pop, and R&B elements. The song reached number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and topped the R&B chart, cementing Ocean's reputation as an international hitmaker. In recognition of his musical contributions, Billy Ocean received a MOBO Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010. The music video is directed by Maurice Phillips. Writer(s) : Mutt Lange, Keith Vincen T Alexander, Billy Ocean Publisher(s) : Aqua Music Ltd, Out Of Pocket Publishing Co, Universal Music Z Songs Featured on the 1984 album Suddenly
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 10 . Chicago - Hard Habit To BreakProduced by David Foster, and marked by extensive use of keyboards and synthesizers characteristic of Foster's style, "Hard Habit to Break" is a Chicago song released in 1984. It features a powerful vocal duo between Peter Cetera and Bill Champlin. The song was a commercial success, reaching number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 1 on the Adult Contemporary chart. It was recorded with experienced session musicians, including members of Toto. The music video is directed by Leslie Libman. Writer(s) : John Lewis Parker, Stephen Alan Kipner Publisher(s) : Stephen A Kipner Music, Parkersongs, Mca Music Publishing
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 11 . Chicago - Along Comes A Woman"Along Comes a Woman" is a song by Chicago released in 1985, from their album "Chicago 17." David Foster's production adds a sophisticated touch with brass and synth arrangements. The single peaked at number 14 on the Billboard Hot 100. The music video is heavily influenced by film noir, in a style described as "Indiana Jones meets Casablanca." The music video is directed by Jay Dubin. Writer(s) : Mark Goldenberg, Peter P Cetera Publisher(s) : Mca Music Publishing, Fleedleedle Music, Double Virgo Music Featured on the 1985 album 17
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 12 . Kenny Loggins - Footloose"Footloose" is the title track of the 1984 film directed by Herbert Ross, starring Kevin Bacon. Produced by Kenny Loggins and Peter Wolf, it was recorded with seasoned session musicians: Dean Parks on guitar, Nathan East on bass, Michael Boddicker on keyboards, and Tris Imboden on drums. The song topped the Billboard Hot 100 and was nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. The music video is directed by Brian Grant. Writer(s) : Kenneth Clark Loggins, Dean Pitchford Publisher(s) : Sony Atv Melody, Milk Money Music Featured on the 1984 album Footloose : Soundtrack
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 13 . Billy Ocean - Mystery Lady"Mystery Lady" is a song by Billy Ocean released in 1984, produced by Keith Diamond, known for his sophisticated productions and groove, who also worked with Donna Summer and Mick Jagger. The song was recorded in New York The music video is directed by David G. Hillier. Writer(s) : James T Woodley, Billy Ocean, Keith Vincent Alexander Publisher(s) : Aqua Music Ltd, Universal Music Z Songs, Universal Music Z Tunes Llc Featured on the 1984 album Suddenly
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 14 . Eric Carmen - Hungry EyesEric Carmen’s “Hungry Eyes,” released in October 1987, pulsates through the "Dirty Dancing" soundtrack, blending John DeNicola and Franke Previte’s writing finesse with Carmen’s emotive vocals. Recorded at Beachwood Studios in Ohio, the track climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 2 on Adult Contemporary in 1988, while import sales placed it at No. 82 in the UK. Initially reluctant, Carmen was persuaded by Jimmy Ienner, his old Raspberries producer, and the song signaled his return to chart success after “All by Myself.” The music video intertwines Carmen’s performance with "Dirty Dancing" clips, cementing its cultural link. The music video is directed by Mark Rezyka. Writer(s) : Peter P Cetera, David W Foster Publisher(s) : Peermusic Iii Ltd, Double Virgo Music Featured on the 1987 album Dirty Dancing: Original Soundtrack
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 15 . Patrick Swayze - She's Like The Wind (w/ Wendy Fraser)Co-written by Swayze for the film "Dirty Dancing" directed by Emile Ardolino, "She's Like the Wind," performed by Patrick Swayze and Wendy Fraser, was produced by Michael Lloyd. It peaked at number 3 on the Billboard Hot 100, contributing to the film's phenomenal soundtrack success. The music video is directed by David Fincher. Writer(s) : Patrick Swayze, Stacy Widelitz Publisher(s) : Emi Music Publishing Ltd Featured on the 1987 album Dirty Dancing: Original Soundtrack
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 16 . Fleetwood Mac - The ChainReleased in 1977, "The Chain" is an iconic song by Fleetwood Mac, produced by Ken Caillat and Richard Dashut. It is unique as the only song on the "Rumours" album credited to all members of the band. It stands out for its complex structure and innovative use of John McVie's bass and Lindsey Buckingham's guitar solo. "The Chain" has been frequently used in various media, including the film "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2." The music video is directed by Bruce Gowers. Writer(s) : Lindsey Buckingham, Michael John Fleetwood, Anne Christine Mac Vie, John Graham Mc Vie, Stevie Nicks Publisher(s) : Hipgnosis Songs Fund Limited, Reach Global Inc, Welsh Witch Music, Rattleman Music, Hipgnosis Sfh I Limited, Universal Music Careers Featured on the 1997 album The Dance
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 17 . Patty Smyth - Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough (w/ Don Henley)A major commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 and becoming a hit on Adult Contemporary radio, "Sometimes Love Just Ain't Enough" is a duet by Patty Smyth and Don Henley, released in 1992. Produced by Danny Kortchmar, known for his work with James Taylor and Carly Simon, the song was recorded during a pivotal time in both Smyth's and Henley's solo careers. Two years later, Patty Smyth co-wrote "Look What Love Has Done," a Grammy and Oscar-nominated song for the "Junior" soundtrack, and five years later, she married former tennis player John McEnroe. The music video is directed by Scott Kalvert. Writer(s) : Joleen L Belle, Ronald James Finn Publisher(s) : Bok Music Featured on the 1992 album Patty Smyth
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 18 . Billy Ocean - SuddenlyBilly Ocean’s "Suddenly" emerges as the centerpiece of his 1984 album, a ballad steeped in romance and quiet revelation. With smooth vocals and lyrics tracing the abrupt shift from solitude to love, Ocean delivers a song that resonates with unexpected emotion. It climbs to number four on the US Billboard Hot 100 in 1985, reinforcing his growing prominence. Following "Caribbean Queen" and "Loverboy," it cements the album’s commercial impact. Born Leslie Sebastian Charles in Trinidad and Tobago in 1950, Ocean relocates to London as a child, later stepping into the music scene in the 1970s. His first major UK success arrives in 1976 with "Love Really Hurts Without You." His US breakthrough follows in 1984 with "Caribbean Queen," a Grammy-winning track that amplifies his reach. More hits, including "When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going," extend his influence through the mid-1980s. The music video is directed by Maurice Phillips. Writer(s) : Billy Ocean, Keith Vincen T Alexander Publisher(s) : Aqua Music Ltd, Universal Music Z Songs Featured on the 1984 album Suddenly
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 19 . Daryl Hall & John Oates - Out Of Touch"Out of Touch" was created by Daryl Hall and John Oates in collaboration with producer Arthur Baker, also known for working with artists like New Order and Afrika Bambaataa. Released in 1984, this pop-rock song marked a shift in the duo's sound towards a more electronic and dance style. The single topped the Billboard Hot 100, confirming the duo's ongoing popularity. The music video is directed by Raoul Kark. Writer(s) : John William Oates, Daryl F Hall Publisher(s) : Hot Cha Music Co, Unichappell Music Inc Featured on the 1984 album Big Bam Boom
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 20 . Billy Ocean - When the Going Gets Tough the Tough Get Going"When the Going Gets Tough, the Tough Get Going," performed by Billy Ocean and co-written with Wayne Brathwaite, Barry Eastmond, and Mutt Lange, emerges as the defiant anthem of the 1985 film *The Jewel of the Nile*. Ocean, on a tight four-day deadline from Jive Records’ Clive Calder, crafts this chart-topping hit, dominating the UK Singles Chart for four weeks and peaking at number two in the US. The video, featuring Michael Douglas, Danny DeVito, and Kathleen Turner, faces a *Top of the Pops* ban due to union rules. The music video is directed by Maurice Phillips. Writer(s) : Billy Ocean, Barry James Eastmond, Wayne Anton Brathwaite, Robert John Lange Publisher(s) : Aqua Music Ltd Featured on the 1986 album Love Zone
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ABOUT YACHT ROCKYacht Rock: The SoundYacht Rock is characterized by a polished and sophisticated production, where every detail is meticulously crafted to create a smooth and harmonious sound. This style relies on soft melodies and complex arrangements, influenced by jazz, R&B, and soul. Harmonized vocals are one of the genre’s trademarks, often doubled and carefully mixed to achieve a fluid and pleasant sound. Backup vocalists are frequently present in the compositions, adding a distinctive vocal texture. Several producers have played a key role in shaping the unique sound of Yacht Rock: – Ted Templeman (The Doobie Brothers, Van Morrison): Templeman is one of the main figures behind the success of The Doobie Brothers, with albums like *Minute by Minute* (1978). He is recognized for skillfully blending jazz and rock elements, emphasizing vocal harmonies and clean keyboard and guitar solos. – Gary Katz (Steely Dan): Katz produced Steely Dan’s albums, known for their studio perfectionism. He oversaw sessions with numerous renowned studio musicians, recording multiple takes to achieve flawless performances using complex techniques like overdubbing and precise timbre adjustments. – Michael Omartian (Christopher Cross, Michael McDonald): In addition to being a producer, Omartian was a musician (keyboardist) and arranger. He is best known for producing the album *Christopher Cross* (1979), which includes the hit song “Sailing.” He favored using keyboards like the Fender Rhodes and layered vocal tracks for harmonized textures. – Val Garay (James Taylor, Linda Ronstadt): Garay is recognized for his precise studio work, often seeking sonic perfection in soft rock and Yacht Rock. He frequently employed subtle compression and reverb techniques to achieve clear and spacious sounds. Yacht Rock favors soft synthesizer tones and clean, undistorted guitar solos, achieved using instruments such as: – Fender Rhodes Electric Piano, one of the most iconic instruments of the genre. Its warm and fluid sound, produced by metal tines struck by hammers, is omnipresent in Yacht Rock tracks. – Yamaha CS-80 Synthesizer, used by artists like Toto, is appreciated for its rich and expressive sounds, perfect for creating harmonious and atmospheric textures. – Gibson Les Paul Guitar, although generally associated with heavier rock, is also used for lighter, clean solos with effects like chorus or reverb. – UREI 1176 Compressor, highly valued for its fine control of dynamics, often used to smooth out vocals and instruments. – Since reverb is a crucial feature in the genre, the Lexicon 224 is widely used to create a broad and enveloping sound. Yacht Rock: The WordsThe lyrics of Yacht Rock songs are generally light and focus on themes of love, relationships, and nostalgia. They often evoke moments of relaxation, personal experiences, and a certain desire for escape. Love is frequently at the heart of the lyrics, and they often express a sense of escape or travel, usually tied to the idea of leaving worries behind to find a moment of peace.
The songs explore personal feelings and reflections on intimate moments, but in a calm and laid-back manner.
Yacht Rock: Record LabelsThe following labels are known for having produced artists associated with the Yacht Rock genre: – Warner Bros. Records Further Reading and ViewingDocumentaries – “Yacht Rock” (Web Series, 2005-2010) – “The Yacht Rock Special” (BBC Radio 2, 2018) – “I Can Go For That: The Smooth World of Yacht Rock” (BBC Four, 2019) – Books – “The Yacht Rock Book” (2018) by Greg Prato – “Sailing the Yacht Rock Wave” (2021) by Tim Sommer – Magazines and Articles – “Yacht Rock Revue” (Rolling Stone, 2020) – “The Oral History of Yacht Rock” (Vice, 2015) |
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