The lyrics of "Diddy Doo Wop (I Hear the Voices)" by Hall & Oates describe a person running and seeking a place to hide in a dark subway station while hearing voices deep inside and singing doo-wop tunes. The person reminisces about others' music preferences and expresses a struggle with inner voices and urges.

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Meaning of "Diddy Doo Wop (I Hear the Voices)" by Hall & Oates


The lyrics of "Diddy Doo Wop (I Hear the Voices)" delve into the complexity of internal struggles and conflicting desires that one may face. The dark and secluded setting of the subway station represents a sense of isolation and introspection where the protagonist tries to come to terms with the inner voices and conflicting thoughts that torment them. The references to other people's music preferences, like Charlie liking the Beatles and Sam liking "Rich Girl", possibly signify the influence of external factors on one's own preferences and identity. The repeated chant of "Diddy doo wop" could represent the constant background noise of inner turmoil and conflicting urges that the protagonist can't seem to escape. The mention of the Duke of Earl and the struggle with hands and head trying to stop each other suggest a battle within oneself, where different parts of the mind or personality are at odds and unable to find harmony. Ultimately, the song captures the chaos and inner conflict that can arise within an individual's psyche.