“Maneater” is a funky, synth-driven rock song by Daryl Hall & John Oates, released in September 1982 with “Delayed Reaction” on the B-side as the lead single from their album H2O. The song became one of their biggest hits, known for its moody atmosphere, infectious groove, and mysterious lyrics.
Maneater is often interpreted as a warning about a dangerous, gold-digging woman, however, Daryl Hall has clarified that the song is actually a metaphor for the greed and materialism of New York City in the early 1980s, rather than a literal femme fatale.
The track blends rock, new wave, and R&B influences, featuring a hypnotic bassline, dramatic synths, and a smooth yet dark melody. The song’s pulsating rhythm and saxophone solo add to its mysterious and seductive vibe, making it one of Hall & Oates’ most unique-sounding hits.
The song was a massive commercial success, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for four weeks, and becoming one of the duo’s most recognizable songs. “Maneater” also reached the top ten in numerous other countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia.