When you think about 80’s music who comes to mind, maybe Madonna, Phil Collins, the Police? Well, how about Daryl Hall & John Oates, the most successful pop duo EVER! I’ve been a fan since 1985 when I saw them perform at Madison Square Garden in New York City. Going to this concert changed my life. I have been obsessed with Daryl & John since then. However, I did lose a little interest with the passing of time, going to college, getting my life started. But thanks to the Internet, I have been able to be obsessed once again. I joined their online fan club, I have joined their Facebook group, and their message board. Therefore, as a fan for over 20 years, I feel more than qualified to have compiled the following list. Please note that these songs are in no particular order because if you’re a fan, you know that would just be impossible.
1. Don’t You Turn Your Back on Me– This is a new classic off the Our Kind of Soul DVD. The begging and pleading for your loved one to stay in this song is so heartfelt and real, you actually feel like Daryl is singing it just for you.
2. Rich Girl- From the album, Bigger than Both of us. Did you know this was actually written about a “Rich Guy”? Daryl didn’t think “Rich Guy” would sound good. How right he was. This song has always been a favorite of mine, maybe because I could say “bitch” when I was younger, and not get in trouble for it.
3. Ennui on The Mountain- This is from the famous “Silver Album”. This song has always been a mystery to me, as far as meaning, but it has great lyrics.
4. Change of Season- From the Change of Season album. I love any song when Daryl and John change out who sings the lead, and this song is a standout for that. And then when they harmonize at the end, it’s just a beautiful sound.
5. Do What You Want, Be What You Are– Another great song from the Bigger than Both of Us album. This was supposed to be the big song off this album, not Rich Girl. This is a wonderfully written song that barely cracked the Top 40.
6. Heartbreak Time– A total new classic. This is from the VH1-Behind the Scenes DVD. It’s just a simple and beautiful song about trying to move forward after breaking up, and how difficult that can be.
7. Every time you Go Away- Originally, on the Voice album. However, the best version of this song is the live version the VH1 Behind the Music CD. This song is always better performed live. This version is particularly awesome because Daryl does a passionate improvisation in the middle of the song.
8. Your Imagination- This is off the Private Eyes album. This song was released to the radio, but barely made it into the Top 40. Just a great song. I never understood why this song didn’t catch on, maybe the paranoia factor in this sound turned some people off.
9. It’s Uncanny- This is from the No Goodbyes album. If you know this song, then you’re a true fan. I don’t think this song ever really saw the light of day. However, recently Daryl & John have been playing this one in concert and the fans are truly grateful for this.
10. So Close (unplugged version)– This is another one from the Change of Seasons album. This song just proves how much better Daryl & John are when they’re singing live.
Well, If you’ve read this far, you must be a fan too. So I highly recommend that you check out Live From Daryl’s House, Daryl does a live webcast from his house, in upstate New York, on the 15th of every month. You will not be disappointed.
