Hall takes a restraining order against Oates? Legendary duo in legal battle

Last Updated on November 29, 2023

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on all the things we’re grateful for, and one of those things – most certainly – is friends. That’s why it’s sad to note that one of the most legendary duos of all time, Hall & Oates, seems to be feuding, with Daryl Hall recently taking a restraining order against his former creative partner, John Oates. 

According to Variety, the restraining order stems from a legal battle between the two, although the lawsuit remains confidential, so there is no news on the issue. While the two have never broken up (I saw them in concert together just a few years ago), there’s been some open conflict between them, with Hall noting on Bill Maher’s Club Random podcast, “You think John Oates is my partner? … He’s my business partner. He’s not my creative partner.”

TMZ speculated that the battle revolves around song royalties and that John Oates performs songs from their repertoire during his solo shows. While they share credit on many of their hits, Hall shares songwriting credits on several signature songs, such as Kiss on My List and Private Eyes, with Janna and Sara Allen rather than Oates.

Daryl Hall has been busy lately, recently reviving his popular internet show, Live from Daryl’s House. Hall and Oates last played together in 2022, but Hall has been on tour with his band, recently playing The Venetian in Las Vegas. And yes, he’s playing Hall & Oates songs. John Oates has also been on tour, with his set list including several songs from their repertoire, but only the ones he has a songwriting credit on.

Do you hope Hall & Oates patch up their differences? Let us know in the comments.