Oasis, the Britpop giants who defined an era, have left an indelible mark on the music world. With their blend of raw attitude, anthemic melodies, and lyrics that captured the spirit of a generation, Oasis became synonymous with the sound of the ’90s. Emerging from Manchester, England, in the early 1990s, the band—led by brothers Noel and Liam Gallagher—quickly rose to prominence, dominating the charts and selling out stadiums across the globe. Their music not only resonated with fans but also helped to shape the Britpop movement, a genre that celebrated British culture and rivaled the grunge scene in the United States.
Among their extensive catalog, several songs stand out as timeless hits that continue to captivate listeners, old and new. These tracks represent the essence of Oasis, blending swagger, melancholy, and a unique sense of hope. Here’s a look at some of their most iconic songs:
“Wonderwall” (1995)
Perhaps the most universally recognized Oasis song, “Wonderwall” has transcended its Britpop origins to become a global anthem. Released as the third single from their second album, “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”, “Wonderwall” features a simple yet powerful acoustic arrangement, paired with Liam Gallagher’s distinctively raw vocals. The song’s ambiguous lyrics have fueled endless interpretations, helping it maintain a sense of mystery and allure. “Wonderwall” is a staple of ’90s nostalgia, and its influence can still be heard in contemporary music.
“Don’t Look Back in Anger” (1995)
Another standout from “(What’s the Story) Morning Glory?”, “Don’t Look Back in Anger” showcases Noel Gallagher taking on lead vocals, delivering one of the most memorable choruses of the decade. The song’s optimistic message, coupled with its Beatles-esque melody, struck a chord with fans and critics alike. Over the years, it has become an anthem of resilience, often sung in unison by crowds at concerts and public gatherings. Its cultural significance was further cemented in the wake of the 2017 Manchester Arena bombing, when it was spontaneously sung by the crowd during a memorial for the victims.
“Champagne Supernova” (1995)
“Champagne Supernova” is the epic closer to Morning Glory, a track that builds slowly and swells into a psychedelic crescendo. With lyrics that are as enigmatic as they are evocative, the song captures the sense of youthful yearning and the fleeting nature of fame. At over seven minutes long, “Champagne Supernova” is a sprawling masterpiece that has become one of Oasis’s most beloved tracks. It’s a song that transports listeners to another world, embodying the band’s ability to blend introspection with grandeur.
“Live Forever” (1994)
From their debut album Definitely Maybe, “Live Forever” is often hailed as one of the best rock songs of the ’90s. It’s a defiant anthem that marked Oasis’s arrival on the music scene, contrasting sharply with the darker, more nihilistic tones of grunge. Noel Gallagher wrote the song as a response to the pessimism he felt in music at the time, crafting lyrics that celebrated life and the enduring human spirit. “Live Forever” is a song that captures the essence of Oasis—bold, hopeful, and unapologetically optimistic.
“Supersonic” (1994)
Oasis’s debut single, “Supersonic,” was the track that introduced the band to the world. With its infectious guitar riff and Liam Gallagher’s swaggering vocals, the song set the tone for what was to come. “Supersonic” is pure rock ‘n’ roll, with lyrics that mix surreal imagery with a sense of urgency. It remains one of Oasis’s most iconic tracks, a song that still electrifies audiences whenever it’s played live.
“Cigarettes & Alcohol” (1994)
“Cigarettes & Alcohol” is a gritty ode to the hedonistic lifestyle that often accompanies rock stardom. Another standout from Definitely Maybe, the song features a riff heavily inspired by T. Rex’s “Bang a Gong (Get It On),” but with a distinctly Oasis twist. The lyrics, which speak to working-class frustrations and the search for escape, resonated deeply with a generation of young people. The track became a defining moment in the band’s career, further establishing their image as the bad boys of Britpop.
“Some Might Say” (1995)
“Some Might Say” was Oasis’s first number-one hit in the UK, and it remains one of their most celebrated songs. Released as the lead single from Morning Glory, the track is a perfect blend of raw power and melodic grace. The lyrics, filled with Noel Gallagher’s trademark wit and wisdom, reflect on life’s ups and downs, offering a mix of hope and realism. The song’s success solidified Oasis’s status as the leading band of the Britpop movement.
“Roll with It” (1995)
“Roll with It” is perhaps best known for its role in the infamous “Battle of Britpop,” where it went head-to-head with Blur’s “Country House” in a highly publicized chart battle. Although Blur won that round, “Roll with It” remains a classic Oasis track, characterized by its upbeat tempo and defiant lyrics. It’s a song that captures the band’s fighting spirit and their belief in perseverance, no matter the odds.
“Whatever” (1994)
Released as a standalone single in 1994, “Whatever” is a song that showcases Oasis’s versatility. With its orchestral arrangement and uplifting lyrics, the track was a hit during the Christmas season and has since become a fan favorite. “Whatever” is one of the few Oasis songs that veers away from their typical rock sound, offering a glimpse into their ability to craft beautiful, melodic pop songs.
“The Masterplan” (1998)
Originally released as a B-side to “Wonderwall,” “The Masterplan” has since gained a reputation as one of Oasis’s finest songs. So much so that it lent its name to a 1998 compilation of B-sides and rarities. The song is a testament to Noel Gallagher’s songwriting prowess, with its poignant lyrics and sweeping arrangement. “The Masterplan” is a song that encourages listeners to trust in the journey of life, even when the path seems unclear. Its inclusion in the band’s live sets has made it a cherished part of their legacy.
Conclusion
Oasis’s top hits are more than just songs; they are cultural touchstones that continue to inspire and resonate with fans around the world. Each track tells a story of its own, reflecting the highs and lows of life, the complexities of human emotion, and the indomitable spirit of rock ‘n’ roll. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering their music for the first time, the hits of Oasis offer a journey through one of the most exciting and influential periods in modern music history. These songs have stood the test of time, ensuring that Oasis will forever be remembered as one of the greatest bands of their generation.