Yacht rock band to perform at Aura in Portland

The Yacht Rock Festival is ready to make waves once again at Aura in Portland on August 29th, bringing the smooth sounds of soft rock hits from the late 1970s and early 1980s to life. Yacht rock, a genre known for its mellow, California boat vibe, was popularized by the Yacht Rock web series creators J. D. Ryznar, Steve Huey, Hunter Stair, and David Lyons. This music transports listeners to a sunny, carefree yacht in 1979, where tunes like Rupert Holmes’ “Escape” and Stephen Bishop’s “On and On” create the perfect soundtrack for cruising the open seas.

The Yacht Rock Festival has gained a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to HBO Max’s release of “Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary” last year. The documentary features live performances and interviews with iconic yacht rock musicians such as Michael McDonald and Christopher Cross. The Ship to Shore band, comprised of local talents like Owen Conforte, Don Campbell, Kris Rodgers, Gina Alibrio, Susanne Gerry, and Max Cantlin, will take the stage at Aura once again to play some of the most beloved yacht rock tunes.

Mark Curdo, general manager of Aura and the mind behind the Yacht Rock Festival, curates a setlist that captures the essence of yacht rock. During a discussion about what qualifies as a yacht rock song, Curdo and others debated the inclusion of songs like Laura Branigan’s “Gloria” and Air Supply ballads. The fluid definition of yacht rock leaves room for interpretation, with some songs making the cut while others may not fit the bill.

This year’s festival at Aura promises to feature classics like Poco’s “Crazy Love,” Michael McDonald’s “I Keep Forgettin’ (Every Time You’re Near),” Christine McVie’s “Got a Hold on Me,” and duets like “Whenever I Call You Friend” by Kenny Loggins and Stevie Nicks. Staple tunes such as Toto’s “Africa” and Christopher Cross’s “Ride Like the Wind” will also make an appearance, ensuring that fans get to experience the best of yacht rock once again.

The Yacht Rock Festival is not just a concert; it’s a nostalgic journey back to a time when the music was carefree and happy. These songs evoke memories of simpler times and bring a sense of joy to those who listen. Yacht rock may be subjective and open to interpretation, but one thing is certain – it never fails to put a smile on people’s faces.

As the world faces uncertainty and challenges, the Yacht Rock Festival offers a temporary escape into a world of timeless music and good vibes. Whether you’re a die-hard yacht rock fan or a newcomer to the genre, the festival promises an unforgettable night of smooth tunes and good times. Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic of yacht rock at Aura on August 29th.