As Liam and Noel Gallagher get set to return to stage this summer, BBC Sounds explores the lasting impact of one of Britian’s most iconic bands in a brand-new ten-part series, Mad For Oasis.
Made by BBC Local teams at BBC Radio Manchester, and hosted by Noel’s daughter, Anais, Mad For Oasis tells the stories of their music through the eyes of the superfans.
We hear from the Oxford-based artist Paul Fellows, who first saw the band more than 20 years ago, and the experience left a lasting impression. His deep love for Oasis inspired him to create artwork dedicated to the band – work that has since helped raise funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital. It’s a cause close to his heart, as the hospital once cared for his ill son.
Paul said: “Oasis have had a massive influence on my life. If someone came up to me in the field of Knebworth and said in 25 years’ time, you’re going to meet him on stage and raise money for a great cause, I would never have believed it!”.
Karen from New Ross, in Ireland has been a devoted Oasis fan since day one. Their music has been a constant companion through both her teenage years and adult life. She recalls how one song in particular became the bridge that helped her reconnect with her mother, who had dementia. She said: “An Oasis song helped me connect with my mother in a way I never thought I’d be able to again. Happy or sad, it will always be a massive part of me”.
Host of the series Anais Gallagher said: “Obviously, Oasis have always been a big part of my life. But to have the opportunity to hear these incredible stories from people about how their music has impacted their lives, has been amazing. I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”
The artwork for this series was specially commissioned, it was created by Manchester Artist and Oasis fan Stanley Chow who said: “I’m thrilled to have to been asked to work on the series cover. I had so much fun researching the illustration. It’s a lovely thing to be part of!”
Chris Burns, Head of Local Audio Commissioning said: “Whether it’s your favourite band reuniting, your football team winning, or losing, our BBC teams live and breathe the rollercoaster of local life with our audiences. BBC Radio Manchester really gets to the heart of how this local band made its mark upon ordinary people’s lives and is told fantastically through Anais.”
Mad For Oasis is a BBC Local production for BBC Sounds and will be available on BBC Sounds on Tuesday 1 July 2025.
HM3