John Oates, one-half of the iconic duo Hall & Oates, recently shared his thoughts on the song he wishes to be remembered for. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Oates reflected on his extensive musical career and revealed his choice for the standout track from his discography. At the 2025 Songwriters Hall of Fame induction ceremony in New York City, Oates expressed his sentiments about the timeless appeal of one particular song.
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The 77-year-old musician highlighted “She’s Gone,” a classic hit that he co-wrote with Daryl Hall in the early ’70s, as the song he holds dear. Oates explained that the enduring popularity and recognition of “She’s Gone” over the years solidify its status as a great song. Originally featured on the duo’s 1973 album Abandoned Luncheonette, the track climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since been acknowledged as one of the best songs of all time by Rolling Stone.
Emphasizing the importance of longevity in songwriting, Oates stressed that being honoured at the Songwriters Hall of Fame signifies the timeless and legendary nature of the songs celebrated at the event. Despite his illustrious past achievements, Oates remains actively engaged in creating new music. Following the release of his previous album, “Reunion,” Oates is gearing up for the launch of his latest collaboration, “Enough Is Enough,” with Clyde and Gracie Lawrence, scheduled for release on June 20.
Inspired by the Lawrence siblings, who make up the band Lawrence, Oates shared the story of how the collaboration came to fruition. Enthralled by their music, Oates set out to write a song that captured the essence of Lawrence’s sound. The result was “Enough Is Enough,” a track that showcases Oates’ admiration for the young talent and his ability to draw inspiration from their work.
In a touching display of camaraderie, Oates described the bond that formed between them after the collaboration. Praising the Lawrence siblings for their professionalism and talent, Oates noted that the duo’s innate musical abilities spoke for themselves. While Oates refrained from giving them specific advice, he expressed his delight at the opportunity to work alongside such gifted individuals.
The synergy between Oates and the Lawrence siblings culminated in a successful collaboration that highlighted the essence of their musical talents. As Oates continues to explore new horizons in his musical journey, his dedication to creating music that resonates with audiences remains unwavering. With a remarkable career spanning decades, Oates’ legacy as a revered songwriter and musician continues to evolve with each new project he undertakes.
In a music industry that is constantly evolving, John Oates stands as a stalwart figure whose contributions to the world of music have left an indelible mark. Through his insightful reflections and innovative collaborations, Oates continues to inspire audiences and fellow musicians alike. As he looks towards the future, Oates’ passion for songwriting and creating timeless music serves as a testament to his enduring legacy in the realm of music.