Former Hall & Oates member John Oates discusses his new solo album ‘Oates’

Formerly of the legendary duo Hall & Oates, John Oates is making waves with his latest solo album, “Oates.” Departing from his successful partnership with Daryl Hall, Oates delves into his musical journey and shares insights into his latest solo venture during an interview with NPR’s Scott Simon.

Now embarking on his seventh solo album, Oates highlights the unique energy and groove-oriented essence of “Oates.” He acknowledges that while each of his albums has its distinctions, this album in particular resonates deeply with his musical roots – drawing inspiration from R&B, soul, and rhythm-focused styles. Infusing a renewed vigor into his music, Oates explains that “Oates” stands out in its enthusiastic approach and stylistic choices that set it apart from his past acoustic troubadour works.

Drawing from a plethora of influences, Oates reveals his admiration for the New York pop group Lawrence. Intrigued by their musicianship, he felt compelled to capture their essence in his song “Enough Is Enough” and even entertained the idea of a potential collaboration. With each musical endeavor, Oates remains attentive to the evolving music scene, continually seeking fresh inspiration to infuse into his compositions.

Hailing from Philadelphia, Oates cites the city as a pivotal influence on his musical journey; reminiscing about his youth marked by the chord changes, harmonies, and distinct production style that defined Philly’s sound. Describing his musical journey as one that mirrored the evolution of rock ‘n’ roll, Oates narrates a nuanced perspective shaped by an era where music carved its path in defining cultural landscapes.

Reflecting on his illustrious partnership with Daryl Hall, Oates delves into the collaborative magic that propelled their success as a songwriting duo. By highlighting their distinct backgrounds – one steeped in classical training and the other immersed in grassroots Americana – Oates underscores the transformative power of creative collaboration. Emphasizing the intertwining of craft and intuition in their songwriting process, Oates expresses gratitude for the rich musical tapestry that they jointly wove over the years.

As he delves into the rhythmically charged track “Pushin’ A Rock,” Oates effortlessly channels his distinctive musical essence into his solo endeavors. With each note, he carries forth a legacy of musical innovation and collaborative artistry that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide. In crafting his latest album, Oates transcends boundaries and ventures into uncharted territory, forging a musical path that reflects his ever-evolving artistic journey.