The “Hall” half of Hall & Oates and the host of “Live From Daryl’s House” takes five from us. (Originally published Oct. 28, 2011)
1.) What’s your favorite Beatles song and why?
Favorite Beatles song—I don’t know. I think “I Am the Walrus” maybe? I just think that it’s the most unique song they ever put on a record.
2.) Who are three songwriters—living or dead—that you wish you could sit down and write a song with?
Uh, Marvin Gaye. I’ll just pick dead people. Let’s see. David Ruffin. Yeah, that’d work. I had my chance, but maybe that one hits a little too close to home. Maybe I won’t just pick dead people. I don’t know, it’s hard because I’ve written songs with so many people. I’ve sort of written songs with everybody I ever wanted to. I don’t know, maybe Smokey [Robinson]. It’d be interesting to write with Smokey. Interesting to write with [Bob] Dylan, although I did that too.
3.) If you had to pick one song that you’ve written that you really think sums you up as a songwriter, what would that be?
I don’t know if I could pick one. But I don’t know, I’d go back in the day with sort of the early ones, like “Sara Smile” or “One on One.” I think those songs are beautiful.
4.) What’s the one song that you wish you could’ve written?
“What’s Going On.”
5.) Is there anything you’re listening to these days that you’re particularly digging?
Well I’m digging all the bands that are on “Live at Daryl’s House.” There’s so much music right now, I can’t even pick one. I’m very, very into new bands. I think there’s so many people out there right now that are doing interesting things in spite of the way that—actually I think it’s encouraged by the way that the music business has gone. I think it spurs creativity and I think if you want to see who I like, just watch my show. I definitely like the way the music industry is now, because it’s back down to the artist. It’s not being run by the behemoth of the record companies.
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