Oasis: A Dublin Perspective on the Britpop Legends

Dave Fanning‘s Early Skepticism of Oasis: ‘I Thought They Were Just Another Band’

May 15, 2024

By Archyde Staff

Veteran Irish radio presenter Dave fanning has reminisced about his initial encounters with the iconic band Oasis, admitting a surprising lack of foresight regarding thier monumental success.

Fanning, a important figure in introducing new music to irish audiences, confessed his early impression of the Gallagher brothers’ band was far from prescient. “I thought they were just another band,” he revealed, reflecting on a time when Oasis was still an emerging act.

The guitarist and songwriter Noel Gallagher famously sent demos to Fanning’s show. Despite the legendary status Oasis would later achieve, Fanning’s initial reaction was grounded in the constant influx of new music he experienced.

Oasis, formed in Manchester in 1991, went on to become one of the most influential and commercially successful bands of the 1990s. Their debut album, “Definitely Maybe,” released in 1994, is widely regarded as a cornerstone of Britpop.

Fanning’s candid admission highlights the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the challenge of identifying future superstars amidst a sea of talent.

Oasis: A Britpop phenomenon

oasis’s impact on popular music is undeniable. Their anthemic choruses,raw energy and distinctively British sound resonated with millions worldwide. The band’s catalogue features enduring hits like “Wonderwall,” “Don’t Look Back in anger” and “Champagne Supernova.”

The rivalry between Noel and Liam Gallagher also became a significant part of the band’s narrative, fueling public interest and media attention throughout their career. Their music continues to be celebrated and discovered by new generations of fans.

Frequently Asked Questions About Oasis

What was Dave Fanning’s initial impression of Oasis?

Dave Fanning initially thought Oasis was “just another band” when he first heard their music.

Who sent demos to Dave Fanning’s show for Oasis?

Noel Gallagher, the guitarist and songwriter for Oasis, sent demos to Dave Fanning’s radio show.

When and where was Oasis formed?

Oasis was formed in Manchester, England, in 1991.

What is considered Oasis’s debut album?

Oasis’s debut album, “Definitely Maybe,” was released in 1994.

What genre of music is Oasis most associated with?

Oasis is most strongly associated with the Britpop genre.

What specific factors contributed to Dublin‘s strong embrace of Oasis amidst the broader Britpop scene of the 1990s?

The Initial Impact: Oasis in 1990s Dublin

The early to mid-1990s in Dublin were a engaging time for music. While conventional Irish music held strong, a wave of British sounds – notably Britpop – began to wash over the city. And leading that wave, arguably, was Oasis. The arrival of Definitely Maybe in 1994 wasn’t just an album release; it was a cultural event. Dublin’s music scene, centered around venues like The Mean Fiddler and McGonigle’s, embraced the swagger and anthemic songwriting.

Early gigs: Oasis’s early Irish shows were notoriously chaotic, fuelled by youthful energy and a growing fanbase. Word-of-mouth spread quickly about the band’s raw talent and Liam Gallagher’s captivating (and often confrontational) stage presence.

Radio Play: Stations like 98FM and Phantom FM championed Oasis, alongside other Britpop acts like Blur and Pulp, giving them important airtime and solidifying their popularity.

Fashion Influence: The band’s style – parkas, Adidas trainers, and generally a ‘lad’ aesthetic – quickly became fashionable amongst Dublin’s youth.

The Rivalry with Blur: Dublin Takes Sides

The manufactured rivalry between Oasis and Blur didn’t just play out in the UK charts; it resonated strongly in Dublin. Pub conversations and record store debates often centered on which band was superior.

1. The Battle of the Britpop Albums: The release of Parklife by Blur and (What’s the story) Morning Glory? by Oasis in 1995 created a clear dividing line. Dublin’s music fans, while appreciating both, often leaned towards Oasis’s more immediate, rock-focused sound.
2. Media Coverage: Irish music magazines and newspapers actively fueled the rivalry, reporting on chart battles and band members’ public statements.
3. Gig Atmosphere: The energy at Oasis gigs in Dublin during this period was palpable, frequently enough feeling like a statement of allegiance against Blur’s perceived ‘art school’ sensibilities.

Liam Gallagher’s Controversies: A Dublin Reaction

Liam Gallagher’s often outspoken and sometimes controversial behaviour has always been a talking point. Recent reports, like those discussed on platforms like Zhihu https://www.zhihu.com/question/1923438948992152805, highlight a pattern of problematic statements. Dublin audiences, while generally forgiving of rockstar antics, have often reacted with a mix of amusement and disapproval.

The Irish Perspective: There’s a strong sense of social justice in Ireland, and overtly discriminatory remarks are rarely tolerated. While Gallagher’s behaviour hasn’t necessarily diminished his fanbase entirely, it has prompted critical discussion.

Media Scrutiny: Irish media outlets have consistently reported on Gallagher’s controversies,frequently enough framing them within a broader context of celebrity responsibility.

Fan Debate: Online forums and social media groups dedicated to Oasis in Ireland frequently debate the line between artistic freedom and unacceptable behaviour.

Oasis’s Landmark Dublin Shows: Memories and Impact

Oasis played several memorable shows in Dublin, cementing their status as legends.

Slane Castle (1995): Their performance at Slane Castle in 1995, during the peak of their fame, is widely regarded as one of the greatest concerts ever held in Ireland. The sheer scale of the event and the band’s electrifying performance left a lasting impression.

Point Depot (Various Dates): Numerous shows at the Point Depot (now 3Arena) provided more intimate settings for Dublin fans to experience the band’s energy.

* Phoenix Park (2009): The final Oasis gig in Ireland, at Phoenix Park in 2009, was bittersweet, knowing it would likely be the last time the classic lineup would perform together.

The Post-Oasis Era: Noel and Liam in Dublin

The split of Oasis in