Rock and Roll Hall of Famer, Songwriters Hall of Famer and several-time GRAMMY nominee John Oates releases his smooth, soulful new single, “Real Thing Going On.” The song is the second offering from Oates’ highly anticipated solo album, Oates, due out August 29. Spotlighting Oates’ iconic guitar-driven sound, "Real Thing Going On" is layered with catchy melodies that recall the classic groove-oriented R&B and pop he famously pioneered in the 1970s and '80s.
Warm, optimistic, and instantly memorable, the track embodies the album’s core spirit—melding vintage grooves with contemporary energy, celebrating genuine connection, love, and the excitement of life's possibilities. Listen to “Real Thing Going On” HERE
Oates marks a creative homecoming for John, who recorded the album primarily in his longtime hometown of Nashville at Sound Emporium, Curb Studios, and Addiction Sound. The album was co-produced by Oates alongside renowned, multi-platinum producer David Kalmusky (Keith Urban, Shawn Mendes, Carrie Underwood) and finds John collaborating with a bright new generation of songwriters and artists, including Clyde and Gracie Lawrence (of the band Lawrence) and soulful singer-songwriter Devon Gilfillian.
Blending seasoned artistry with vibrant youthful influences—including standout collaborations such as the first single "Enough Is Enough," featuring Clyde and Gracie Lawrence—Oates showcases John's commitment to evolving musically while paying homage to the roots of his celebrated career, crafting a collection that feels both timeless and fresh, nostalgic yet forward-looking. Listen to “Enough Is Enough” HERE
This summer and fall, fans can experience John and his newly formed band live as they perform highlights from Oates alongside beloved classics from his expansive catalog. Past and upcoming tour dates include marquee performances at notable venues and festivals across the U.S., including West Hollywood's famed Troubadour just two nights before album release, on August 27. For tickets and more tour info, visit johnoates.com.
Having called Nashville home for over 15 years, John has become a deeply respected presence within the city’s thriving Americana scene. With early blues, roots, rock ’n’ roll, and folk music shaping his formative years, he has thoughtfully explored these genres in recent solo projects like 2024’s introspective and acoustic-driven Reunion. He recently walked the red carpet at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala where he caught up with PEOPLE on early details about his new album. Now, with Oates, he’s plugging in his beloved 1958 Stratocaster again and fully embracing the groove-rich sound that first defined his legendary career.
Pre-order, Pre-save: https://johnoates.com
Oates Tracklist
Enough Is Enough (feat. Lawrence)
Real Thing Going On
Mending (feat. Devon Gilfillian)
A Ways Away
Let Me Be the One
World Gone Wrong
Pushin' a Rock
Disconnected
Get Your Smile On
Dreaming About Brazil
Bajo la Luz de la Luna
Walking In Memphis
Walking In Memphis (Grabbitz Remix)
Tour Dates:
July 18 – Steamboat Springs, CO – Strings Music Pavilion *
July 19 – Lone Tree, CO – Lone Tree Arts Center *
August 17 – King of Prussia, PA – Upper Merion Township Park
August 20 – Millville, NJ – Levoy Theatre
August 22 – Westport, CT – Levitt Pavilion for the Performing Arts
August 23 – Wilkes-Barre, PA – Public Square Park
August 24 – Queens County, NY – The Rockaway Hotel
August 27 – West Hollywood, CA – Troubadour
* w/ Acoustic Quartet and special guest William H. Macy (All other dates are full band)
