Oasis

Oasis were an English rock band formed in Manchester in 1991. Originally known as The Rain, the group was formed by Liam Gallagher (vocals), Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs (guitar), Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan (bass), and Tony McCarroll (drums). They were later joined by Liam's older brother, Noel Gallagher (lead guitar and vocals), who would become the band's primary songwriter.

Rise to Fame and Britpop

The band signed with the independent record label Creation Records in 1993 and released their debut album "Definitely Maybe" in 1994. The album was a critical and commercial success, becoming the fastest-selling debut album in UK history at the time. Their second album, "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?" (1995), was even more successful, becoming one of the best-selling albums of all time. This album solidified their status as a cultural phenomenon and included iconic tracks like "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger". Oasis, along with bands like Blur, Pulp, and Suede, were at the forefront of the Britpop movement, which saw British bands gain widespread popularity.

Peak and Subsequent Albums

In 1996, Oasis played two legendary concerts at Knebworth Park, performing to a total of 250,000 people over two nights. Their third album, "Be Here Now" (1997), became the fastest-selling album in UK chart history upon its release, though it received mixed reviews and failed to achieve the same lasting success as its predecessors. The band saw several lineup changes over the years. Founding members Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs and Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan left in 1999 and were replaced by Gem Archer and Andy Bell. Drummer Alan White, who had replaced Tony McCarroll in 1995, left in 2004 and was succeeded by Zak Starkey and later Chris Sharrock.

Later Years and Breakup

Oasis released several more studio albums, including "Standing on the Shoulder of Giants" (2000), "Heathen Chemistry" (2002), "Don't Believe the Truth" (2005), and "Dig Out Your Soul" (2008). Despite continued commercial success in the UK, the famously volatile relationship between the Gallagher brothers eventually led to the band's demise. In August 2009, Noel Gallagher announced his departure from the band following a fight with Liam, effectively ending Oasis.

Post-Oasis

Following the split, Liam Gallagher formed the band Beady Eye with former Oasis members Gem Archer and Andy Bell. He later embarked on a successful solo career. Noel Gallagher formed his own project, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, also to critical and commercial acclaim. Throughout their career, Oasis sold over 70 million records worldwide. In August 2024, the Gallagher brothers announced that Oasis would reunite for a tour in 2025.