Oasis are an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1991. Originally known as The Rain, the group included Liam Gallagher (vocals), Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs (guitar), Paul “Guigsy” McGuigan (bass), and Tony McCarroll (drums). The band’s lineup changed significantly after the arrival of Noel Gallagher, Liam‘s older brother, who became the group’s primary songwriter and lead guitarist.
The Beginning: Formation and Early Days
The origins of Oasis date back to 1991 when Liam Gallagher joined a local Manchester band called The Rain, featuring members Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs (guitar), Paul “Guigsy” McGuigan (bass), and Tony McCarroll (drums). Soon after, Liam‘s older brother, Noel Gallagher, joined the band as the lead guitarist and principal songwriter, bringing a new direction to their sound. Noel‘s influence quickly transformed the group, and they soon rebranded themselves as Oasis.
In 1993, the band was discovered by Alan McGee, founder of Creation Records, and signed to the label, setting the stage for their meteoric rise.
Breakthrough with Definitely Maybe (1994)
Oasis burst onto the scene in 1994 with their debut album, “Definitely Maybe”. This album was an instant success, becoming the fastest-selling debut album in UK history at the time. Hits like “Supersonic”, “Live Forever”, and “Cigarettes & Alcohol” became iconic tracks that defined a generation of British rock music.
“Definitely Maybe” was widely praised for its anthemic, guitar-driven sound and Noel Gallagher‘s sharp songwriting. The album’s success solidified Oasis as the leading band in the Britpop movement, rivaling acts such as Blur and Pulp.
Global Success: (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? (1995)
In 1995, Oasis released their second album, “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”, which catapulted them to global fame. The album featured some of their most enduring songs, including “Wonderwall”, “Don’t Look Back in Anger”, “Champagne Supernova”, and “Roll with It”. These tracks dominated the charts and became anthems of the 1990s.
“Wonderwall”, in particular, achieved international acclaim, becoming one of the band’s most recognizable and loved songs. The album sold over 22 million copies worldwide, establishing Oasis as one of the biggest bands on the planet.
The Battle of Britpop: Oasis vs. Blur
During the mid-90s, Oasis found themselves in a highly publicized rivalry with fellow Britpop band Blur. In what became known as the “Battle of Britpop,” the two bands went head-to-head in 1995 with the simultaneous release of their singles, “Roll with It” by Oasis and “Country House” by Blur. Although Blur won the chart battle, Oasis ultimately emerged as the more enduring band, with “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” vastly outselling Blur’s “The Great Escape”.
Creative Peak: Be Here Now (1997)
Following their unprecedented success, Oasis released their third album, “Be Here Now”, in 1997. Anticipation for the album was immense, and it became the fastest-selling album in UK history, moving over 420,000 copies in its first day. Songs like “D’You Know What I Mean?” and “Stand by Me” were fan favorites, but the album received mixed reviews for its lengthy and overproduced tracks.
Despite the critical backlash, “Be Here Now” remains an important part of the band’s legacy and showcases their ambition at the height of their fame.
Internal Struggles and Lineup Changes
By the late 1990s, tensions within the band began to escalate, particularly between Liam and Noel Gallagher. Their volatile relationship led to frequent public arguments, and several band members left over the years, including Paul McGuigan and Paul Arthurs.
In 1999, Noel briefly left the band during their world tour, but later returned to continue recording. Despite these internal struggles, Oasis continued to release new music.
Later Albums: Standing on the Shoulder of Giants (2000) to Dig Out Your Soul (2008)
From 2000 onwards, Oasis released several more albums, each showcasing a different sound as they navigated the changing landscape of rock music. Albums such as “Standing on the Shoulder of Giants” (2000), “Heathen Chemistry” (2002), “Don’t Believe the Truth” (2005), and “Dig Out Your Soul” (2008) reflected the band’s evolving style while still maintaining their signature sound.
Tracks like “Go Let It Out”, “The Hindu Times”, “Lyla”, and “The Shock of the Lightning” were standouts, keeping the band relevant and beloved by their fanbase.
The End of Oasis and Aftermath
In 2009, after years of tensions, Noel Gallagher finally left Oasis following a heated backstage argument with Liam. This effectively marked the end of the band, and the remaining members went on to form Beady Eye, fronted by Liam Gallagher. Noel, on the other hand, embarked on a successful solo career with his new project, Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds.
Legacy of Oasis
Despite their dramatic end, Oasis remains one of the most beloved and influential bands in rock history. Their albums continue to inspire new generations of musicians, and their music is celebrated worldwide. Oasis‘s legacy is defined by their anthemic songs, their brash attitude, and their lasting impact on the world of music.
Oasis Discography
Studio Albums:
- Definitely Maybe (1994)
- (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? (1995)
- Be Here Now (1997)
- Standing on the Shoulder of Giants (2000)
- Heathen Chemistry (2002)
- Don’t Believe the Truth (2005)
- Dig Out Your Soul (2008)
Notable Singles:
- “Supersonic” (1994)
- “Live Forever” (1994)
- “Wonderwall” (1995)
- “Don’t Look Back in Anger” (1996)
- “Champagne Supernova” (1996)
- “D’You Know What I Mean?” (1997)
- “Go Let It Out” (2000)
- “The Hindu Times” (2002)
- “Lyla” (2005)
- “The Shock of the Lightning” (2008)
The legacy of Oasis continues to thrive, with their timeless music resonating across generations. Their albums and singles are still widely regarded as some of the best in rock history.
In August 2024 Oasis announced their comeback with a series of live date planned for the summer of 2025.
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