With Definitely Maybe in 1994, Noel Gallagher cemented his status as one of the defining musicians of the Britpop era. Oasis soared to the top of the charts, building a dedicated following that has remained loyal over the years. Despite their reputation as a quintessential guitar band, Gallagher himself placed more value on lyricism than complex solos or gear setups.
Within guitar circles, Gallagher often faces criticism for his straightforward style, seen as lacking technical prowess. However, Gallagher has always argued that a lack of complexity does not detract from the music’s impact. In fact, Oasis’s simple structure and memorable lyrics have only increased their widespread appeal.
Throughout his career, Gallagher has focused on songwriting above all else. While his Oasis compositions are marked by basic chord progressions and straightforward solos, Gallagher’s lyrics take center stage, giving the songs their soul. This focus has allowed him to keep his distance from the sometimes elitist world of guitar “shredders,” often expressing his distaste for overly complex playing.
In a 1995 Alternative Press interview, Gallagher highlighted George Harrison as a key influence on his music. As diehard Beatles fans, both Gallagher brothers modeled aspects of their career on the Fab Four, even if their attempts weren’t always successful.
“If I was in The Beatles,” Noel claimed, “I’d be a good George Harrison. I’ve only done two albums, so I’d say I’m as good as any of them after their second albums.”
While this comparison might sound audacious, such statements are part of Gallagher’s famously brash style. He went on to take a jab at Led Zeppelin’s Jimmy Page, casually remarking, “Who wants to be Jimmy Page?” Despite Page’s status as one of rock’s most revered guitarists, Gallagher dismissed the appeal of his technically elaborate solos.
To him, emulating Harrison’s simplicity held more appeal, explaining, “I’d rather be George Harrison and write ‘Something’ than be Jimmy Page and go ‘diddle-uh-diddle-uh-biddle-uh-buh.’ That’s too much like hard work, innit?”
While Gallagher’s remarks show admiration for Harrison, the feeling wasn’t mutual. In 1995, Harrison downplayed Oasis, calling them “not very interesting.” He even had unflattering words for Liam, labeling him “a bit out of date… he’s just silly.”
For Gallagher, though, the simplicity and emotional depth of his music have remained a conscious choice—a way to stand apart from the overly technical and remain grounded in genuine songwriting. Despite Harrison’s dismissive comments, Gallagher’s love for The Beatles and Harrison’s style shows no signs of waning.
