The Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, were the heart and soul of Oasis. While the entire band contributed to their success, the brothers’ dynamic stage presence inspired many young people to play rock and roll. Noel wrote most of the songs, but Liam’s powerful voice was just as important. He could sing love and rock songs with equal skill. Liam’s voice created a phenomenal and influential music that made Oasis one of the most iconic bands of the 1990s. On the special occasion of the singer’s 52nd birthday, let’s revisit his top 10 songs:
10. Glass Wall
Wall of Glass was the lead single from Liam Gallagher’s debut solo album, As You Were. The singer kept the album’s sound rooted in guitars and drums, aiming to show the world who he was as a rock artist. The song made a clear mission statement in its lyrics: “And every stone you throw / Will come back your way / One day you’ll break like a wall of glass / Wall of glass.” It peaked at #21 on the UK Singles Chart and remains his best-selling single as a solo artist.
9. Do not go away
This song is from Oasis’ third album, Be Here Now. Don’t Go Away depicts Liam’s vulnerable feelings about his mother abandoning him at a crucial point in his life. The sensitivity in his vocals makes this song a deeply emotional experience, often bringing tears to fans’ eyes. This track remains unique among their rock and roll masterpieces to this day.
8. Rock n Roll Star
The opening track of Oasis’ debut album, Definitely Maybe, which was released in 1994, Rock ‘n’ Roll Star, was aired as a single on US radio. Liam’s voice, combined with the rock beat, perfectly conveys the young adult fantasy vibe that this song was designed to evoke. The lyrics reflect his days living in Manchester. Liam’s performance in this song was considered a major breakthrough for Oasis as a major rock band.
7. Start afresh
Start Anyway showcased Beady Eye’s potential as a band and was the final track on their last original album, BE. Breaking away from their typically thumping rock and roll style, the song highlighted Liam’s ability as a strong songwriter, with lyrics reminiscent of Carole King or James Taylor. The track felt like a prophecy for Liam’s solo career, with an optimistic message about starting anew even after the original band disbanded.
6. Flip it
In one of the standout tracks from Oasis’ fourth studio album, Standing on the Shoulder of Giants, Roll It Over sees Liam describe his attempts to reconnect with a close friend after a long period of being out of touch: “I blame it on the change of seasons / The thoughts I’ve expressed – does that make everything all right?” At the time, fans didn’t have the best relationship with the band, but this song sent a clear message that Liam was here to stay.
5. Some people might say
Oasis’ first number one on the UK Singles Chart, Say Some Might, reminded fans what the band is about. Liam’s vocals were amazing, with harmonies that helped the song reach new milestones. Lyrics like “Some might say the sunshine comes after the thunder / Go and tell the man who can’t shine,” showcased the song’s depth and storytelling ability.
4. Slipping Away
Slide Away is another great track from Oasis’ debut album. The song has a smooth melody with a great rock bass, making it a great love song. The song takes you on the journey of a man who has found his lover. Liam’s vocals convey the feeling of being swept away in love, which connected deeply with fans, even though the track was a bit different from their signature rock style.
3. Live forever
Despite being written by his brother Noel, Liam delivered the style and message of Live Forever impeccably. The lyrics – “Maybe you’re just like me / We see things they’ll never see / You and me are gonna live forever” – are both powerful and inspiring. Liam’s commanding vocals on this track are some of their best, making it a fan favourite at live shows. No other Oasis song matches the impact of this song.
2. I hope I know
Despite some public dissatisfaction with the band at the time, Liam hit new singing heights with I Hope, I Think, I Know. The chorus – “As we beg, steal, and borrow / Life is hit and miss, and this / I hope, I think, I know / If I ever hear you calling me names / And if I falter, catch me when I fall” – along with their stunning vocal harmonies, solidified his status as a fan favorite. Once again, Liam proved that he would remain beloved long after Oasis’ popularity waned.
1. My time is up
The second single from the 2008 album Dig Out Your Soul, I’m Outta Time reflects Liam’s personal struggles with family issues during that time, as well as his determination to rise above them. The track was praised by music critics, with some even comparing it to the Beatles. Fans also loved Liam’s heartfelt vocals. Unfortunately, despite its praise, the song peaked at #12 on the UK Singles Chart, just missing the top 10.
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