With expertly crafted lyrics and anthemic sound, Oasis’ Britpop took the world by storm.
Oasis are one of the most successful and influential acts of all time. Exploding out of the 1990s U.K. music scene, they reclaimed big, brash, hook-filled rock & roll with their anthemic sound, cool swagger, expertly crafted lyrics, and electrifying live performances – eventually selling over a hundred million records. Their songs have become England’s go-to anthems, sung in unison by fans at sporting events and social gatherings and inspiring countless bands including the Killers and Arctic Monkeys.
Formed in Manchester, England, the band’s seminal 1994 debut album Definitely Maybe was a critical and commercial smash that included the singles “Live Forever” (the band’s first Top Ten hit) and “Supersonic.” They found even greater success with their sophomore release (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, a stateside breakthrough that boasted the era-defining smashes “Wonderwall” and “Champagne Supernova” – perfect songs for massive crowd sing-alongs.
Brothers Liam and Noel Gallagher – and their oft combative relationship that would come to provide plenty of tabloid fodder – are the heart and soul of Oasis, with Liam as lead vocalist and Noel as lead guitarist and primary songwriter. The band was rounded out by bassist Andy Bell, guitarist Paul “Bonehead” Arthurs (later replaced by Gem Archer), and drummer Tony McCarroll.
After five more studio albums and hits including “Stop Crying Your Heart Out” and “Lyla,” friction between the Gallagher brothers led to the band’s breakup in 2009. Liam and the remaining band members carried on as Beady Eye, while Noel branched out with his solo project the High Flying Birds.
After years of speculation and rumors, near-hysteria followed Oasis’ 2024 announcement of their highly anticipated 2025 reunion tour. The band’s loyal fan base was sent into a frenzy when the reunion was officially confirmed, and the unprecedented demand for tickets proved that their influence remains as strong as ever. Undoubtedly, Oasis fever will only continue to spread as the tour kicks off, and the band’s return promises to be one of the biggest rock & roll events of the decade.
Nominees: Gem Archer, Paul Arthurs, Andy Bell, Liam Gallagher, Noel Gallagher, Tony McCarroll, Paul McGuigan, Alan White