Industry Apr 5, 2026

John Oates on 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 on Michael Jackson’s ‘Billie Jean’ Inspiration

John Oates has indicated agreement with Daryl Hall’s assertion that Michael Jackson’s hit ‘Billie Jean’ was inspired by Hall & Oates’ song ‘I Can’t Go For That.’ Hall recounted a conversation where he told Jackson that his version differed significantly. Originally reported by MusicRadar.