Industry Apr 5, 2026
John Oates Believes 'I Can't Go For That' Inspired Michael Jackson's 'Billie Jean' Groove
“I told him: ‘Oh Michael, what do I care? You did it very differently,’” Hall previously said
Originally published by
MusicRadar
John Oates has concurred with Daryl Hall's assertion that Hall's song "I Can't Go For That" served as the inspiration for the groove in Michael Jackson's hit "Billie Jean." Oates recalled telling Jackson that he had executed the musical idea in a distinctly different manner. Originally reported by MusicRadar.