Oasis: The Definitive History
Oasis, formed in Manchester in 1991, became one of the most influential and commercially successful bands in British music history. Led by the Gallagher brothers, Noel and Liam, they defined the Britpop era of the 1990s. Their story is one of meteoric rise, sibling rivalry, and enduring cultural impact, making them a cornerstone of modern British rock. The band burst onto the scene with their debut album, Definitely Maybe (1994), which became an instant classic and cemented their reputation as the voice of a generation. Songs like "Supersonic" and "Live Forever" captured the defiance and optimism of working-class Britain, resonating with fans far beyond the UK. The album’s success not only established Oasis as leaders of the Britpop movement but also redefined what it meant to be a rock star in the 1990s. Oasis followed this success with (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? (1995), an album that propelled them to global superstardom. Featuring iconic tracks like "Wonderwall," "Don’t Look Back in Anger," and "Champagne Supernova," it became one of the best-selling albums of all time. The record’s universal themes of love, loss, and hope struck a chord with millions, solidifying the band’s place in music history. By this point, Oasis wasn’t just a band; they were a cultural phenomenon, embodying the brash confidence and unfiltered attitude of the Britpop era. A significant part of the Oasis legend revolves around the dynamic between Noel and Liam Gallagher. Their sibling rivalry, often played out in public, added a layer of intrigue to the band’s story. While Noel was the mastermind behind the songwriting, Liam’s raw charisma and distinctive vocals brought those songs to life. This volatile relationship, however, was both a source of creative energy and a cause of tension, often threatening to derail their success. The band’s peak came with their historic concerts at Knebworth in 1996, where over 250,000 fans gathered to witness what many consider the defining moment of their career. However, the pressure of fame, coupled with internal conflicts, began to take its toll. Subsequent albums, including Be Here Now (1997), showcased moments of brilliance but struggled to match the critical acclaim of their earlier work. Despite these challenges, Oasis remained a dominant force in the music industry until their split in 2009. Over their career, they released seven studio albums, each contributing to their legacy as one of the greatest British bands of all time. Their influence is evident in the countless artists and bands they’ve inspired, and their anthems continue to resonate with fans old and new. This website, Oasis: The Definitive History, is a comprehensive resource for everything Oasis. From detailed biographies of band members and album breakdowns to in-depth looks at their cultural impact, this is the ultimate destination for fans and enthusiasts. Whether you’re revisiting the glory days of Britpop or discovering their music for the first time, you’ll find a treasure trove of information, stories, and insights that celebrate the band’s remarkable journey and enduring legacy.
Quick Facts
- Total Albums: 7 studio albums
- Singles: 28 UK singles
- Total Sales: Over 75 million records worldwide
- UK Number Ones: 8 singles, 8 albums
Most Successful Album
(What's the Story) Morning Glory? (1995)
Over 22 million copies sold worldwide
Biggest Single
Wonderwall (1995)
Over 1.3 million copies sold in the UK