Want to know everything about the band that defined 90s Britpop? From sibling rivalry to iconic anthems, Oasis left a lasting mark on the music world. Whether you’re already a fan or new to their music, this list will give you a crash course on one of the greatest rock bands of all time. So grab your sunnies and get ready to roll with it!
Oasis was formed in 1991
Oasis came together in Manchester, UK, in 1991. The original members included Liam Gallagher as the lead singer, his brother Noel Gallagher on guitar, Paul Arthurs (aka Bonehead) on guitar, Paul McGuigan (aka Guigsy) on bass, and Tony McCarroll on drums. If you formed a band, what would you call it?
Definitely Maybe was their debut album
Oasis released their first album, Definitely Maybe, in 1994. It became the fastest-selling debut album in the UK at the time, and it included hit singles like “Live Forever” and “Supersonic.” If you haven’t listened to it already, pop it on and see which is your favourite song!
“Wonderwall” is their most famous song
Released in 1995 on their second album, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, “Wonderwall” became Oasis’s most iconic song. It’s still popular today and is often played on the guitar by aspiring musicians. Why don’t you listen to it whilst you read the next facts?
Sibling rivalry
The band’s core members, Liam and Noel Gallagher, are brothers known for their heated arguments and sibling rivalry. Their feuds often made headlines and sometimes led to on-stage fights, but their chemistry also created some amazing music.
And yet more rivalry…
In the mid-90s, Oasis and another highly successful Britpop band, Blur, were engaged in a famous rivalry known as the “Battle of Britpop.” Both bands released singles on the same day in 1995 – Blur’s “Country House” and Oasis’s “Roll with It”, competing for the top spot on the UK charts. Blur won the battle, but Oasis won the war by selling more albums overall.
Biggest concert ever!
In 1996, Oasis played two huge concerts at Knebworth House in England. Over 250,000 fans attended over two nights, making it one of the biggest concerts in British history. Tickets sold out in minutes! Who else do you know who has sold out concerts?
Britpop legends
Oasis was one of the leading bands of the Britpop movement in the 1990s, a British music style characterised by catchy melodies, British-centric lyrics, and a focus on guitars. Other bands in this movement included Blur, Pulp, and Suede, as well as Spice Girls, Elastica and Garbage.
The band’s breakup
Oasis officially split up in 2009 after a backstage fight between Liam and Noel, before a concert in Paris. Noel left the band, saying he couldn’t work with his brother anymore. Since then, both brothers have pursued solo careers, until 2024 when they announced a reunion tour for 2025. It’s good to make up!
Solo careers
After the split, Noel Gallagher formed his own band called Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, while Liam Gallagher released music under his own name. Both have been successful, but fans have hoped for a reunion forever. Now they may just get their chance!
Legacy
Oasis have left a legacy in music, influencing bands since and inspiring new fans to discover them all over again. Their pride in their Northern roots and timeless melodies make them an iconic band and we hope to see more from them!
