The iconic duo Daryl Hall And John Oates, the hitmakers behind classics like “You Make My Dreams (Come True)” and “Rich Girl,” are indeed “Out of Touch,” not just musically but legally. John Oates has recently addressed the ongoing legal disputes between the pair for the first time publicly, confirming the rift.
Hall and Oates, who haven’t engaged in collaborative studio work for nearly two decades – their last joint album of original material being 2003’s “Do It for Love,” followed by a Christmas album in 2006 with just two original tracks – entered legal conflict in November 2023. Daryl Hall initiated legal action against John Oates concerning Oates’ plans to sell his share of their joint company, Whole Oats Enterprises. Hall contended that this sale would breach their existing business agreement and sought a restraining order against his long-time musical partner.
Oates explained his decision to step away was driven by frustration with the complexities and unhappiness associated with their shared business entity. “I said, ‘You know what? Daryl has always wanted to be his own man. I’m gonna give him the opportunity to do that. If I sell my half, he can do what he wants,’” Oates stated in a recent interview on “Good Morning America.”
It appears Oates was unprepared for Hall’s reportedly negative reaction. Court documents revealed Hall’s legal team describing him as “blindsided” by Oates’ move, labeling it as the “ultimate partnership betrayal.”
Oates downplayed the significance of selling his catalog share, referencing the trend among artists doing the same. “I mean, you look at all the artists who are selling all their catalogs. … It’s not that big a deal,” Oates commented. However, he acknowledged a specific point of contention: “But Daryl didn’t like the idea that I would sell to a certain third party,” though he refrained from naming the party in question.
Reflecting on their dynamic, Oates echoed sentiments previously voiced by Hall about the inherent challenges of being in a duo. Hall had remarked in a 2022 interview with The Times, “It’s very annoying to be a duo. People always say, ‘Oh, you’re the tall one, you’re the short one. You’re the one that sings, you’re the one that doesn’t sing,” highlighting the constant comparisons and individual identity struggles within musical partnerships. He likened it to comedy duos where roles are more defined but found it “f— up, actually” in music.
Despite the current discord, both Daryl Hall and John Oates have carved out individual paths and enjoyed solo successes. Hall has consistently released solo albums, including the popular track “Philly Mood.” Oates also launched a solo album this year titled “Reunion,” drawing inspiration from his pre-Hall musical interests in blues and folk.
In closing his “GMA” interview, Oates offered a sentiment of reconciliation, stating he still holds affection for Hall. “Brothers have disagreements, families grow apart,” he reflected. “I wish him the best. I hope that he has everything he wants in life, and that he can pursue his dream of being a respected solo artist, which I believe is something that he’s always wanted.”
It appears that for Daryl Hall and John Oates, their professional and personal relationship has indeed reached an “Out of Touch” juncture, leaving fans to reflect on their remarkable musical legacy as a duo while they navigate separate paths.
