Long before Oasis captivated audiences worldwide with their anthemic rock, another iconic band from Liverpool had already etched their legacy into musical history: The Beatles. The profound admiration of the Gallagher brothers for the Fab Four was no secret, with Noel Gallagher frequently articulating the immense significance The Beatles held for him. This deep-seated respect, however, transcended mere musical influence, leading to a remarkable and often overlooked association between these two British rock giants.
It might come as a considerable surprise to many dedicated fans and music historians alike that the connection between Oasis and The Beatles extended beyond artistic inspiration. In a fascinating twist of fate, Oasis welcomed a direct lineage to the legendary Liverpool quartet into their ranks by recruiting Zak Starkey, the talented son of none other than Ringo Starr and his first wife Maureen. This significant personnel addition provided a tangible and deeply personal link between the two influential bands.
Zak Starkey joined Oasis as their touring drummer in the mid-2000s, bringing with him a pedigree unmatched in the rock world. His tenure provided a rhythmic backbone to the Manchester band’s electrifying live performances, adding a unique dimension to their sound. However, his initial stint was not without its turbulence, culminating in his departure just a year before the notorious split of Oasis, a period marked by internal friction and creative differences within the group.
Reports from spokespeople at the time characterized Starkey’s initial departure as a “typical rock’n’roll falling out,” a common occurrence in the high-pressure world of touring bands. Interestingly, he was reinstated within a mere three days, suggesting a quick resolution to the conflict. Yet, this reconciliation proved to be short-lived, as Starkey was controversially ousted again just one month later, ending nearly three decades of his service to the broader music scene and his significant contribution to Oasis’s live presence.
Beyond his pivotal role with Oasis, Zak Starkey has maintained an active and diverse career in the music industry. He is a prominent member of the supergroup Mantra of the Cosmos, a collective that boasts other notable figures from the British music scene, including Bez and Shaun Ryder from the Happy Mondays, and former Oasis bassist Andy Bell. This collaboration further underscores Starkey’s enduring influence and versatility within contemporary rock music circles.
Amidst ongoing speculation and fervent fan anticipation, Oasis is finally making a highly anticipated return to UK stages with “Oasis Live ’25.” This comeback tour signifies a significant moment for the band’s global fanbase, offering a chance to relive their iconic anthems. While tickets for some venues quickly sold out, fans eager to witness the legendary group live can still find availability through various resale platforms, ensuring wider access to these monumental performances.
The group’s latest single, “Domino Blues,” originally penned by the prolific Noel Gallagher, adds a fresh chapter to their storied discography. Gallagher, known for his eloquent and often eccentric observations, once famously likened the foursome to a surreal and visionary combination of “Dylan, Dalí and Ginsberg on a rocket ship to the moon to have it with the Clangers.” This evocative comparison highlights the unique artistic vision that has always defined Oasis’s musical output.
Despite Zak Starkey’s pivotal past contributions to Oasis, he will not be part of the current comeback line-up. Nevertheless, his personal relationship with Noel Gallagher has remained remarkably strong over the past two decades, demonstrating a bond that transcends professional affiliations and band dynamics. This enduring friendship underscores the complex and often personal nature of relationships within the music industry.
Stepping into the drum kit for Oasis’s extensive 41-night tour is the accomplished American drummer Joey Waronker, renowned for his collaborative work with acclaimed artists such as Elliot Smith, Beck, and R.E.M. Waronker’s significant experience also includes a stint in the backing band for Liam Gallagher and John Squire, making him a fitting choice for this high-profile tour. He is slated to perform tonight, July 25, for an astounding 90,000 fans at Wembley Stadium, marking the highly anticipated return of the Gallagher brothers to the capital’s grandest stage.
