John Oates—one half of Hall & Oates, one of the best-selling duos in pop history—is going back to his roots with his new self-titled solo album. Before forming Hall & Oates, John was steeped in folk and Delta blues, and this record pulls from those early influences while showcasing the guitar chops and songwriting skills he’s honed over years of playing with top Nashville musicians.

On today’s episode, Justin Richmond talks with John about the making his new solo album. John also shares the story of playing Mississippi John Hurt’s acoustic guitar on the first two Hall & Oates records, and the moment backstage at the Apollo Theater, after performing with The Temptations, when he realized Hall & Oates had truly come full circle.

You can hear a playlist of some of our favorite songs from John Oates songs HERE.

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