When it comes to rankings, this is one that some artists might prefer to avoid. Being part of the “Big 4” in Yacht Rock has its benefits and drawbacks.

The issue is evident in the name. Part celebration and part insult, yacht rock can be as laid-back as it is complicated. Many associated with this belatedly named music genre openly embrace it, even performing at ship-themed concerts. However, others have a strong aversion to it.

In its heyday, yacht rock might have been referred to as soft rock, adult-oriented rock, or simply the West Coast sound. Regardless of the label, this music became a commercial powerhouse from the mid-’70s to mid-’80s, even amidst the emergence of punk, new wave, post-punk, and hip hop. The genre’s top acts were platinum-selling chart-toppers.

READ MORE: Top 50 Yacht Rock Songs

A key factor in that success was the music’s adaptability and high production quality. Yacht rock drew influences from outside the realm of rock, including R&B, jazz, soul, and disco. Its biggest stars were adept in the studio. Everything came together to produce some of the smoothest, catchiest, and best-crafted songs of any era.

How Did Yacht Rock Get Its Name?

Yet it lacked a name until the mid-’00s when an online video comedy series connected the songs and their artists with one of California’s beloved leisure activities. Aside from rare references to boating – such as Little River Band’s “Cool Change,” Christopher Cross’ “Sailing,” and Crosby Stills and Nash’s “Southern Cross” – this connection was weak at best. However, it was humorous, so the name persisted.

The roots in parody may explain why some artists labeled as yacht rock (including Daryl Hall, Boz Scaggs, Ambrosia’s David Pack, and notably, Donald Fagen) have resisted the title.

The whole concept can become somewhat comical – especially when cover bands dress up like budget versions of characters from Gilligan’s Island or The Love Boat. Fortunately, as the following list demonstrates, that wasn’t necessary to be considered one of the “Big 4” of Yacht Rock.