John Oates describes his experience on ‘The Masked Singer’ as strange, yet liberating
John Oates, renowned as one-half of the iconic duo ‘Hall & Oates,’ recently ventured into uncharted territory by participating in the reality singing competition, ‘The Masked Singer.’ Despite his decades-long career in the music industry, Oates found a newfound sense of freedom and inspiration through his time on the show, which ultimately propelled him to reinvigorate his sound for his latest album release.
On Season 10 of ‘The Masked Singer,’ Oates took on the persona of the Anteater, a choice that was symbolic of his past hits, including the popular 1982 single ‘Maneater’ by ‘Hall & Oates.’ Stepping onto the stage dressed as the Anteater marked a unique experience for Oates, who described the journey as both bizarre and liberating. The show allowed him to experiment with music in ways he had not explored before, leading him to a creative renaissance. Oates’ performance of Marc Cohn’s ‘Walking in Memphis’ during the competition served as a pivotal moment that inspired his upcoming album.
Following his stint on ‘The Masked Singer,’ Oates delved into recording his latest studio album, ‘Oates,’ which features 13 tracks that showcase a fresh and energetic take on his classic sound. The influence of his appearance on the show is evident in the album’s innovative arrangements and pop-driven style. Oates’ decision to infuse his music with new elements, such as inviting electronic music producer Grabbitz to create a dance remix of his cover of ‘Walking in Memphis,’ reflects his willingness to push boundaries and explore diverse musical avenues.
Reflecting on his time on ‘The Masked Singer,’ Oates expressed gratitude for the opportunity to showcase his vocal talent without the preconceived notions associated with his past achievements. The anonymity provided by the show allowed Oates to break free from the confines of his musical legacy and forge a path forward as a solo artist. By separating himself from the shadow of ‘Hall & Oates,’ Oates embraced the challenge of redefining his identity and artistic vision through his solo endeavors.
As Oates navigates this new chapter in his career, he remains driven by the sense of independence and creativity that ‘The Masked Singer’ instilled in him. The comparisons drawn between his performances on the show and renowned rock legends like John Cougar Mellencamp, Bryan Adams, Billy Joel, and Bob Seger have further fueled his desire to continue exploring uncharted musical territories. Embracing the spirit of reinvention and originality, Oates’ latest album signifies a bold new era for the legendary musician as he forges ahead on his musical journey.