Chris DeMakes A Podcast Throwback Thursday: John Oates discusses Daryl Hall & John Oates “Maneater”
Aug 14, 2025
John Oates, the legendary half of Hall & Oates, shares the spotlight as he reflects on their iconic hit 'Maneater.' He dives into the creative process behind writing and recording the song, revealing innovative production techniques from the early '80s. Oates also discusses the lyrical depth and the song’s evolution, including his newly reimagined reggae version. With fascinating anecdotes from their artistic journey, he captures the duo's unique sound and enduring legacy in the music world.
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No Demos, Studio-First Workflow
- Hall & Oates rarely made demos; they wrote and recorded songs quickly in-studio without preliminary sketches.
- Their pace and confidence let them treat studio time as the creative ground rather than a place to refine demos.
Maneater's Reggae Origins Returned
- John Oates originally wrote the Maneater chorus with a reggae feel and later adapted it with Daryl Hall into the Motown-flavored hit.
- In 2023 John returned to that reggae origin, recording in Jamaica with players connected to Marley and Tosh.
Use Technology As A Tool, Not A Crutch
- Hall & Oates used new 80s technology as tools to enhance songs rather than let it dictate the music.
- They accepted manufacturer demos and experimented but kept the song's core feel primary.