Industry Apr 5, 2026

John Oates Discusses Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" Inspiration

“I told him: ‘Oh Michael, what do I care? You did it very differently,’” Hall previously said

Originally published by MusicRadar
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John Oates Discusses Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" Inspiration

John Oates has stated that Daryl Hall believes Michael Jackson's hit "Billie Jean" was inspired by the groove from Hall and Oates' song "I Can't Go For That."

Hall recalled telling Jackson that he had interpreted the groove in a substantially different manner. Originally reported by MusicRadar.