John William Oates, born on April 7, 1948, in New York City, is best known as one half of the rock and soul duo Hall & Oates, alongside Daryl Hall. Growing up in an Italian American family in a Philadelphia suburb, Oates began writing music in the mid-1960s. After graduating from North Penn High School, he enrolled in Temple University, where he met Hall; their musical collaboration soon blossomed into the iconic duo we know today. They initially performed in various college bands before officially forming Hall & Oates and signing with Atlantic Records in 1972.

The duo quickly gained popularity, becoming one of the most successful musical acts of the 1970s and 1980s. Hall & Oates released a string of chart-topping hits, many of which Oates co-wrote and performed. Notable singles include "Sara Smile," "She's Gone," "Maneater," "You Make My Dreams," and "Out of Touch." Oates played a crucial role in shaping their sound as a talented guitarist and songwriter, contributing to over thirty Top 40 hits and helping sell more than 80 million records worldwide—a remarkable achievement that solidifies their legacy in pop and rock history.

After Hall & Oates took a hiatus from recording together, Oates launched his solo career with the 2002 album Phunk Shui, followed by 1000 Miles of Life (2008), Mississippi Mile (2011), and Good Road to Follow (2013). His solo efforts showcase his versatility and commitment to music outside the duo's extensive catalog. In 2017, Oates published his memoir, Change of Seasons, which chronicles his journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a music icon alongside Hall, detailing personal and professional trials along the way.

In recognition of his songwriting prowess, Oates was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004 and later received the prestigious honor of being inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of Hall & Oates in 2014. His influence spans generations of musicians, with many contemporary bands citing Hall & Oates as major inspirations. Oates' contributions to music extend beyond the duo; he wrote and performed on numerous hits for other artists, including the 1986 track "(She's the) Shape of Things to Come" for the film About Last Night.

More recently, in 2023, Oates showcased his playful side as a contestant in Season Ten of The Masked Singer, performing under the guise of an "Anteater." Although he was eliminated during the Group C finals, his appearance on the show underscored his enduring relevance in popular culture.

Today, John Oates continues to perform and create new music, with his latest solo album, Arkansas, released in 2018. His legacy as a musician, songwriter, and producer remains influential, and he continues to inspire both fans and aspiring artists around the world through his remarkable journey and the timeless music he has contributed to the fabric of American pop culture.