John Oates & Daryl Hall: Legal dispute splits musical duo

The music world is mourning the end of an era as legendary duo Hall & Oates have officially broken up after over 50 years together. While both Daryl Hall and John Oates have alluded to the split in recent interviews, Hall has confirmed the news definitively in a Variety interview, citing a business dispute as the primary factor.

"It was a miracle that it lasted that long," Oates reflected in a separate interview with People, hinting at a deeper rift beyond the immediate business disagreement.

The dispute reportedly arose when Oates attempted to sell his share of their joint company, Whole Oats Enterprises, to music publisher Primary Wave Music without Hall's consent. Hall responded with a lawsuit and obtained a temporary restraining order, effectively halting the sale until the matter is settled through arbitration.

"After 50 years, people grow apart," Oates said in his interview with People. "I never really had an issue with discussing creative problems with Daryl," he continued, "but business things were different."

Despite the acrimonious end, both artists acknowledged the immense success of their partnership. They co-wrote numerous hits like "Maneater," "Out of Touch," and "I Can't Go For That," achieving chart-topping success, Grammy nominations, and inductions into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and Hollywood Walk of Fame.

While Oates maintains "a lot of respect for the body of work that we created," he has "no plans" to perform with Hall again according to his interview with People. He's currently focusing on his solo career, with his sixth solo album, "Reunion," set for release this week.

This news marks a significant shift in the music landscape, leaving fans to reminisce about the decades of infectious melodies and energetic performances delivered by Hall & Oates.