The world learned about Daryl Hall and John Oates’ conflict when Hall filed a lawsuit and a temporary restraining order against Oates late last year. In a Billboard interview, Hall disclosed that their creative partnership had been strained for years, with their last co-written song dating back to 2000. Despite extensive touring, both found it limiting. The real problem emerged when Oates decided to end their collaboration but made the separation process difficult.

The dispute revolves around their co-owned limited liability partnership, Whole Oats Enterprises LLP (WOE). In November 2023, Oates tried to transfer Hall’s share in WOE to Primary Wave Music without his consent. Hall responded by obtaining a restraining order and filing a lawsuit to prevent damage.

Hall and Oates do not anticipate reuniting, which Hall finds freeing. He sees himself as a solo artist who occasionally worked with Oates and now feels liberated to perform his songs independently. Hall believes Oates probably shares this sentiment, and both appreciate their newfound freedom.