MusicBox - Oasis - When Britannia Ruled the Waves

May, 7 2024

The music scene in the early 90’s needed a severe boost. The previous decade experienced the baggy indie scene from bands such as The Happy Mondays and The Stones Roses.

Originally known as The Rain – Oasis – were formed in Manchester in 1991. An English rock band who weren’t afraid of name dropping the Roses as an inspiration to start a band.

Spearheaded by the lyrical vision and musicianship of Noel Gallagher and frontman, brother Liam Gallagher the band signed to Creation Records in 1993 and released two albums that fans hail their greatest – Their debut album 1994’s ‘Definitely Maybe’ – which topped the UK Albums Chart and became the fastest selling debut album in British history at the time.

1995’s (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? Was the follow up and became one of the best –selling albums of all time.

By 1996 Oasis had cemented themselves as one of the best bands of the 20th century. But with two albums under their belt and a  series of classic songs the  best thing they could do was to perform them to millions of people.

Oasis played Knebworth that year and as frontman Liam hollered out to the crowd ‘This is history, right here, right now’. He was right. It became the largest demand for a show in British history.

As you can imagine, expectations were high when Oasis went into the recording studio to create what then became the August 1997 album ‘Be Here Now’.

But it was the pre album single ‘D’you know what I mean?’ which set the tone of the album and referenced Knebworth in the chorus section. Take a look at the epic music video here –

 The following 12 years Oasis released four more albums, experienced line – up changes and by 2009 the band called it a day after Noel released a statement saying he could no longer work with his brother following an acrimonious relationship.

Liam went on to form Beady Eye then they split up and her ventured on a solo career. This year he collaborated with former Stone Roses guitarist John Squire on a record. They are expected to continue working together. Get the latest information here - https://www.liamgallagher.com/?frontpage=true

Noel formed Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds. He is still writing and recording. He is due to release a new album soon. To follow Noel simply visit the following website link -https://www.noelgallagher.com/

But they will forever be remembered as part of the Britpop scene of the 1990’s. Whether they will ever patch up their differences and reunite remains to be seen. However, fans are excited to see Liam championing their debut album ‘Definitely Maybe’ as it marks 30 years since it was released this year. He is expected to tour the album in the summer.

In the words of Liam he leaves us with this quote for the build up to his gigs,

"I wouldn't be anywhere without it and neither would you, so let’s celebrate together.”

^Alex Ashworth CCG UK Blogger