Director Garret Price faced an unexpected turn when he reached out to Donald Fagen of Steely Dan to invite him to participate in the upcoming documentary titled Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary. His inquiry aimed to delve into the nuances of this distinct musical genre, renowned for its smooth melodies and laid-back vibes, which has captivated audiences for decades. However, Fagen’s brief appearance in the film comes solely through an unexpected phone interaction with Price, showcasing the artist’s candid personality.

The documentary had its debut at the DOC NYC festival on Wednesday and is set to premiere on HBO on November 29. The interaction between Price and Fagen is a pivotal moment in the film, highlighting the sometimes contentious relationship artists have with the labels placed upon their music.

When Price posed the question about whether Fagen would discuss “this genre,” the singer, famous for his soft-rock hits like “Rikki Don’t Lose My Number” and “Peg,” responded with curiosity. He asked, “And what genre is that?” Price quickly clarified with, “Um, yacht rock.” This exchange set the stage for a memorable moment, as Fagen’s reaction was anything but conventional.

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Fagen’s retort was sharp and unexpected. Before abruptly ending the call, he quipped, “Oh, yacht rock. Well, I tell you what: Why don’t you go f— yourself?” This candid outburst underscores Fagen’s authentic persona and his feelings towards the genre’s label. Despite the abrupt ending, Price confirmed to People magazine that this interaction was genuine, emphasizing the realness of the moment and the unpredictability of engaging with musical icons.

Watch the Trailer for ‘Yacht Rock: A Dockumentary’

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Price interprets Fagen’s response as a playful acknowledgment of the significance of the term “yacht rock” within the broader context of their music. He describes it as a “wink,” suggesting that Fagen appreciates the cultural relevance of the label while also asserting his individuality. The documentary features six iconic Steely Dan tracks, made possible by a follow-up call from Fagen’s manager granting permission for their inclusion, which adds to the film’s authenticity and appeal.

In addition to Steely Dan, the documentary showcases an impressive lineup of artists who define the yacht rock genre. Among those featured are the Michael McDonald-era Doobie Brothers, Christopher Cross, David Pack from Ambrosia, Kenny Loggins, and Toto. Each of these musicians has significantly contributed to the soft-rock sound that characterizes yacht rock, making the documentary a rich exploration of this musical phenomenon. Comedian Fred Armisen shares his perspective, describing yacht rock as a soothing experience, suggesting that the artists convey a comforting message through their music, resonating with listeners in a profound way.