Hall & Oates' Restraining Order Mystery Solved
The mystery of why Daryl Hall obtained a restraining order against John Oates has been solved, at least in part, now that part of the case has been unsealed by a Tennessee judge. Hall is attempting to block Oates from selling his share in their joint venture to Primary Wave Music.
Reason for the Restraining Order
The mystery of why Daryl Hall obtained a restraining order against John Oates has been solved, at least in part, now that part of the case has been unsealed by a Tennessee judge. It's now been revealed that Hall is attempting to block his longtime musical partner from selling his share in their joint venture to Primary Wave Music.
According to the Associated Press, Hall is opposed to Oates' desire to sell his share of the duo's Whole Oats Enterprises to the investment firm, which already purchased a 'significant' stake in their catalog rights 16 years ago. Hall has expressed regret for not owning all of his publishing.
The judge has temporarily blocked Oates from making the sale in response to Hall's lawyers' argument that the sale appeared imminent due to Oates' team signing a letter of intent with Primary Wave. The next court hearing is scheduled for Nov. 30.
Details of the Lawsuit
According to the lawsuit, Hall's team claims that Oates' team let Primary Wave see the duo's joint business agreement, which was meant to be confidential. They argue that the entire transaction is a result of a breach of contract.
Arbitration between the two singers' teams was initiated by Hall on Nov. 9, but he believed that Oates would proceed with the sale to Primary Wave despite this. The lawsuit also stated that an arbitrator had not been agreed upon yet.
While parts of the lawsuit remain under seal, it appears that the judge agrees with Hall's attorneys that it contains details covered by the confidentiality agreement that Oates allegedly breached.
Background and Current Situation
Primary Wave acquired a significant interest in Daryl Hall & John Oates' song catalog in 2007. Hall had expressed dissatisfaction with their previous publishing company and saw Primary Wave as a better fit for his material. However, in a 2021 interview, Hall expressed regret for selling his publishing.
Currently, Hall and Oates have been on separate paths, with each doing solo tours including their individual efforts as well as some of their biggest hits as a duo. Their last album together was released in 2006, and although they announced plans for a new album, those plans have apparently been abandoned.
Despite their separate endeavors, their occasional tours have been successful, playing to large audiences in arenas and amphitheaters.
