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Alan McGee on Meeting Noel Gallagher for the First Time
Alan McGee, the former manager of the iconic British rock band Oasis, has shared his vivid recollections of meeting Noel Gallagher for the first time. This encounter, which took place in 1993 at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow, would ultimately lead to the signing of one of the most influential bands of the 1990s to his label, Creation Records. In his new book, Alan McGee: How to Run an Indie Label, McGee reflects on that fateful night and the immediate connection he felt with Gallagher.
| Event | Date | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Meeting Noel Gallagher | 1993 | King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut, Glasgow |
The Unexpected Night at King Tut’s
McGee describes the night he met Gallagher as one that changed his life, although he did not expect it at the time. He had arrived early to watch his friend Debbie Turner perform with her band, Sister Lovers. While at the venue, he noticed Gallagher’s younger brother, Liam, whom he initially mistook for the band’s drug dealer, a common sight among bands of that era. This humorous misunderstanding set the stage for what would become a pivotal moment in music history.
When Oasis was added to the lineup at the last minute, McGee was taken aback by their performance. They opened with “Rock ‘N’ Roll Star,” and McGee found himself captivated. He recalls thinking that if the next song was not as good, he might reconsider, but “Bring It On Down” followed, and it was equally impressive. By the time they played “Up in the Sky,” McGee was already envisioning signing them, despite being aware that he was under the influence of alcohol.
First Impressions of Noel Gallagher
After the performance, McGee sought out Gallagher, asking his friend Mark Coyle, who was known as the “sixth member” of Oasis, to introduce him. When Gallagher came backstage, McGee felt an immediate connection. He admired Gallagher’s hustle, noting that he had been working hard in the music industry since he was just 15 years old. At 25, Gallagher was at the peak of his hustling career, and McGee recognized that this was a significant moment for both of them.
McGee’s first impression of Gallagher was overwhelmingly positive. He appreciated Gallagher’s determination and passion for music, which he believed would resonate with audiences. This initial meeting laid the groundwork for a partnership that would change the landscape of British rock music.
The Wild Ride of Managing Oasis
Reflecting on his time managing Oasis, McGee describes the experience as “genius, wild, and unpredictable.” He acknowledges that working with the band was a rollercoaster ride, filled with volatility and excitement. The dynamic between Noel and Liam Gallagher added an element of danger and unpredictability that kept both McGee and the public on their toes.
McGee believed that Oasis embodied everything he had ever dreamed of releasing through Creation Records. They combined rock ‘n’ roll with a psychedelic edge, all while maintaining a working-class authenticity. The band’s anthems resonated with a generation, and their charisma made them two of the most famous figures of the decade.
The Legacy of Oasis
Oasis’s impact on music and culture cannot be overstated. With hits like “Wonderwall,” “Don’t Look Back in Anger,” and “Champagne Supernova,” they defined a generation and influenced countless artists. McGee’s role in their rise to fame was crucial, as he recognized their potential and helped shape their early career.
In his book, McGee provides an unfiltered look at the music industry, sharing anecdotes from his experiences with various artists and the challenges he faced. He describes the book as a “no-holds-barred rampage” through the world of indie music, filled with stories of gigs, clubs, and the wild lifestyle that often accompanied it.
Conclusion: A Moment in Music History
Alan McGee’s first meeting with Noel Gallagher was not just a chance encounter; it was a moment that would alter the course of music history. Their partnership led to the creation of some of the most memorable songs of the 1990s and solidified Oasis’s place in the pantheon of rock music. As McGee reflects on that night at King Tut’s, he recognizes the serendipity of life-changing moments and the importance of seizing opportunities when they arise.
FAQs
1. What year did Alan McGee meet Noel Gallagher?
Alan McGee met Noel Gallagher in 1993 at King Tut’s Wah Wah Hut in Glasgow.
2. What was the name of the band that Alan McGee managed?
Alan McGee managed the iconic British rock band Oasis.
3. What is the title of Alan McGee’s new book?
The title of Alan McGee’s new book is Alan McGee: How to Run an Indie Label.
4. What was McGee’s first impression of Noel Gallagher?
McGee liked Noel Gallagher straight away and admired his hustle and determination in the music industry.
5. How did Oasis impact the music scene in the 1990s?
Oasis became one of the most influential bands of the 1990s, known for their anthems and rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle, shaping the sound of a generation.
6. What does McGee’s book cover?
McGee’s book covers his experiences in the music industry, including anecdotes from managing various artists, the challenges he faced, and the wild lifestyle associated with indie music.
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