Oasis are said to be rock ‘n’ roll kings. I was there for their ‘heyday’ and all I saw were miserable, snarling bores at the bar – and terrible concerts
As a seasoned journalist who has interviewed countless celebrities and witnessed various antics, I must say that my encounter with Liam Gallagher stands out as one of the most unusual and unforgettable experiences. The tension in the air was palpable, like a storm brewing on the horizon, and it was clear that Liam was not in his usual jovial mood. His actions were erratic, and his words seemed to carry a veiled threat.
News around the globe is buzzing with excitement about the report that the band Oasis, specifically the Gallagher brothers, are reuniting for a string of performances in Australia and the United Kingdom.
As a dedicated follower of that iconic Britpop band, their comeback performance on stage stirred up nostalgia for the carefree hedonism of ‘Cool Britannia’. For me and my Gen X peers, songs like Live Forever and Don’t Look Back in Anger have become anthems encapsulating our rebellious past.
But the thing about nostalgia is you only remember the good parts.
In my line of work as a lifestyle enthusiast, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing some extraordinary events throughout the years. For instance, being part of the crowd that watched the Gallagher brothers and their lesser-known bandmates in the late ’90s was no ordinary experience. There are countless untold tales from those ‘rough around the edges’ days, stories that still echo in my mind today.
In 1998, Kevin Airs, who was new to Australia at the time, wrote about his turbulent experience covering a tour there for Ralph magazine.
The tour was marred by controversy as singer Liam was apprehended for an alleged incident involving him head-butting a fan in Brisbane.
As a seasoned travel advisor reflecting on past experiences, I can share an instance where a traveler, let’s call him Liam, was involved in an unfortunate altercation during his backpacking adventure in Britain. The charges against him were initially assault, but later dropped. An amicable out-of-court settlement was reached instead. Fast forward two decades, Liam would express no remorse about the incident and boldly declare that given the chance, he would repeat his actions without hesitation.
Present at the immediate following of the head-butting event was Airs. The band, showing no remorse, were making efforts to concentrate on their forthcoming concerts; however, all-night revelries would lead to disastrous performances and a dismal end-of-tour bash in New Zealand, which could very well be one of the most disheartening in rock ‘n’ roll lore.
The peaceful evening of having a drink at a hotel bar turns tumultuous as Oasis’ guitarist Bonehead is escorted out by staff. Four women, visibly terrified, are hurriedly led through an exit at the back for their protection. Remarkably, despite being taken away, the balding celebrity still makes a point to return and shake my hand, offering his well-wishes before being dragged back to his room. It’s hard to believe, given that just moments ago, he had hurled every curse word imaginable in my direction.
Over a span of thirty minutes, Bonehead and Oasis’ drummer Whitey offered me a fascinating perspective into the Jekyll-and-Hyde realm of Oasis – explaining how their swift personality shifts could make them some of the kindest individuals on Earth, yet also some of the most monstrous beings in the universe.
The story unfolds as I make my way to the hotel’s bar in Brisbane, where Oasis and I are lodged. I’m just looking for a quick cocktail before my dinner date with a work associate. Sitting at the bar are Bonehead and Whitey who, without much ado, strike up a conversation about Australia with me. They express their deep affection for the country, particularly Brisbane, and inquire about my own opinions on the matter.
Before I have time to answer, Bonehead blurts: ‘You’re not a journalist, are you?’
I give a nod. He queries whether I possess a recording device, then unleashes a barrage of harsh words. Somehow, I deescalate the situation and suggest purchasing a beer for him. Instead, he insists on champagne.
Bar staff refuse to serve the already-blotto Bonehead before he slops the dregs of his beer on the bar. Smelling trouble, I get up to walk away and he starts abusing me again. Then, suddenly, he changes. The anger gone in an instant, he asks me to sit down and talk.
There’s growing concern among the team, as just two days ago, the rowdy rocker known as Liam was accused of attacking a fan outside an upscale hotel. Previously, the band caused chaos on their flight from Hong Kong to Perth. The next day, Liam boasted about his tattoo and threatened the pilot with a pick axe if he were to be arrested for similar misbehavior. In Sydney, Liam allegedly put a dirty handkerchief into a girl’s shirt during a wet evening out.
Two pizzas and an enormous cheeseburger are delivered. Bonehead is in such a state that he can’t recall desiring the burger. We adjust the tables and seating to accommodate all three of us for dining and conversation.
During breaks from savoring his ham-and-pineapple pizza and Whitey’s traditional olive pizza, Bonehead shared his affection for the fans and the music. Previously, the band stepped out of their hotel to play a quick game of football with enthusiastic fans who had gathered outside.
He slurs, ‘That was great, buddy! We played using goalposts like when we were children. That’s the essence of it all. The fans, man! I couldn’t care less about what critics write about us. I just don’t get why they always pick on us. This band, you see, is made up of my friends. We’re simply enjoying ourselves and creating good music, but the critics continue to criticize us for one thing or another. I can’t fathom why.’
Regarding Liam’s incident, I was present when it occurred and witnessed the altercation. To put it simply, he indeed instigated it by headbutting someone. However, it’s not a major issue in my opinion; if it had been two random individuals on the street, nobody would have given it a second thought. But since we are involved, it seems to be a bigger deal than it actually is.
Whitey, who tends to be more reserved, interjects: “At the close of the day, we enjoy unwinding with some drinks and a friendly brawl. That’s our style.
As a lifestyle connoisseur, let me share an anecdote from my past. When it comes to concerts, there’s nothing quite like the excitement they bring. I’ve found myself in many conversations where we reminisce about these magical events and the music that echoes within our hearts long after the final note has faded.
During the afternoon, I found myself seated near the band, who were relaxing with drinks at an Irish pub located in Brisbane’s downtown area. A steady flow of attractive ladies approached the band’s street-side table to request autographs and photos. Without uttering a single complaint, Noel Gallagher signed everything presented to him. I shared this memory with Bonehead, commenting on how wonderful it must feel to have so many beautiful women showing interest.
He assures me confidently, “We don’t feel attracted to these groupies, since we’re happily married.” He then invites me to choose one I find appealing, adding, “We won’t want them, so you have our blessing. If you claim to be part of the band, we’ll support you. Honestly, go ahead and take your pick! We value our wives and families back home more than anything.” Bonehead and Whitey boast about their spouses and children – Bonehead is father to Lucy and Jude with wife Kate Arthurs, while Whitey wed American actress Liz Carey in 1997. They proudly display their wedding rings, gleaming gold symbols of their strong family bonds, for all to admire.
Bonehead inquires, “Are you currently wed?” To which he adds enthusiastically, “Marriage is truly remarkable. I myself am married and have two wonderful children. By the way, would you like some more pizza? Give it a try. I don’t know exactly what toppings are on it, but it’s delicious.
In a heartbeat, Bonehead appears to have changed his mind about me once more. With a swift motion, he hoists the pizza platter as if to shatter it down upon my very head.
He growls angrily, ‘With that bottle of brandy, you’re just filth! Get out of here! You’re nothing but a dishonest journalist. Beat it!’
All I’d said was what a good life they have.
He goes on to say, “I’ll wager you secretly wish you were in our shoes, you scoundrel. Are you really tough, huh? Are you daring enough for this confrontation? You Scottish lout.
Once more, I depart, and this time neither of them chooses to follow. He continues his verbal attack even from afar. Four apprehensive women sit silently in a corner just centimeters away from him.
The bartenders intervene to pacify him as I attempt to disregard the barrage of offensive remarks hurled at me. It’s evident that even a single careless remark could push him to lose control.
Cautious employees attempt to display the surprised women near him, who catch the attention of the quiet crowd in the usually tranquil pub. One woman breaks the heavy silence that had settled among the patrons by stating plainly, “I believe your mom wouldn’t approve.
Simply pushing Bonehead too far would suffice. “What’s that you said, you filthy harlot? What did you say?” (This paraphrase uses more polite language to convey the same sentiment while maintaining a similar tone.)
She repeats it and he explodes.
‘My f**king mother’s dead, you f**king s**t!’
In a struggle, Whitey attempts to restrain him who is trying to seize the woman while simultaneously releasing more toxic substances. She makes an attempt to express her apologies, but Bonehead becomes enraged instead.
‘Don’t you ever f**king talk about my mother, you f**king slag! I don’t have a mother… she’s f**king dead and it’s her anniversary next week, you f**king cow!’
Currently, hotel staff are seeking out the strongest bartenders available to forcibly remove the celebrity. Unaware of their warnings, he persists in trying to approach his pale-looking companions.
Suddenly, once again, he changes.
He regains control and shakes free from the grip of those around him. To my alarm, he marches towards me.
In the same manner that I’m braced for a glass to hit my face, he gazes intently into my eyes, flashes a warm grin, and offers me his hand. Cautiously, I grasp his hand and shake it in return.
‘It was nice talking to you,’ he says, with apparent sincerity. ‘Hope you have a nice stay.’
After brief, harsh words to the trembling women pleading to depart, Bonehead informs the staff that he’s ascending to his room for rest. Shortly after, both Bonehead and Whitey vanished from the scene.
Two days have passed, and we find ourselves in a new nation, a fresh establishment to quench our thirst. At 2am, Stamford Plaza in Auckland is the location, where Liam’s relentless appetite for large vodkas with orange keeps the bar staff on their toes. The band finished performing four hours ago, and Liam has been drinking non-stop since then.
In a secluded area, music icon Joe Cocker is toning down his rebellious persona by peacefully enjoying drinks with companions. Nowadays, he allows up-and-coming acts like Oasis to create the chaos – he’s been there, done that, and pays little mind to their activities.
Reasonable older brother Neil has retired for the night, yet lively brothers Liam and his group of companions, doppelgängers, and security personnel remain active.
Occasionally, he goes upstairs with a companion for a while, then returns after just a few minutes, constantly wiping his nose.
At the bar, the visiting British media are likewise keeping late hours, closely observing the band’s actions. Liam is well aware of this fact. (or) Liam realizes that the visiting British press is staying up late and keenly watching the band at the bar.
He lurks nearby, hoping they’ll talk to him so he can coldly dismiss them, yet they choose not to respond to his provocation.
Following a half-hour of trailing, Liam feels he has had enough. Seizing the opportunity when one of the reporters excuses themselves to visit the restroom, Liam swiftly claims their vacated chair.
John says, “I’m John.” A journalist extends his hand for a shake, but Liam seems taken aback. Unlike his fellow band members in Brisbane who were friendly and jovial with me, there’s no such warmth shown here.
He questions, “Why do you dislike us?” His response suggests that they are pursuing him due to his youthful charm and success as a 25-year-old who confidently seizes opportunities. He implies that their disdain stems from his morning motivation and ability to write good songs. In essence, he believes that they resent him for uplifting people and transforming them into paper airplanes, symbolizing the inspiration he provides.
On more secure footing, we inquire about the tour, concerts, and if he yearns for home and his lovely wife, Patsy Kensit. ‘I long for home. I have a wonderful wife and stepson, but my duties here come first. I need to complete this task.’
A fresh vodka and orange drink appears. Despite his bodyguard signaling for him to depart, Liam seems unwilling to oblige.
‘No, I’m alright,’ he insists, with a shrug of the shoulders. ‘I’m just talking here.’
Just like last week in Brisbane when the occasional twitches of his hair gave away his self-assured strut, Liam now doesn’t conceal his unease. One of his companions beckons him off for another round and a smoke break.
I’m approached by another guard for a chat, and he’s got a proposition regarding our band. He believes securing support from a British newspaper could help us navigate the accusations of assault we’re facing. He hints that appealing to Liam and his brother Noel through their mother, who resides in Manchester, might be an effective strategy.
As I consistently stress, treating their mother with kindness is crucial. Sending her lovely bouquets and avoiding any bothersome behavior towards her will certainly earn you respect among the boys. If you are considerate to them, they’ll reciprocate in kind and potentially help you prosper. However, disrespecting their mother could create an adversary for eternity. Always remember: never cross their mother.
Liam is back at the bar wanting another drink and overhears his mum being mentioned.
Who is causing trouble for my mother?” or “Who has been treating my mom unfairly?” (These phrases convey the same meaning but with a slightly softer tone.)
The bodyguard is attempting to communicate, but chaos ensues as a fire breaks out. Liam, with a stern gaze, tries to quiet the situation, acting as a buffer between us similar to a circus performer. Now, the area where Liam was seated has been reclaimed by the press representative, and he wants it returned. “That’s my spot,” he forcefully states, addressing the photographer.
‘No, it’s mine now,’ he’s told.
Liam fumes, scowling at the snapper.
‘D’you think you’re hard?’ he asks.
‘Yes,’ comes the reply.
For a moment, Liam is left speechless due to an unexpected response. He moves towards the nearby guard for a chat, seemingly to clarify a legal matter.
‘If he hits me first,’ I hear him whisper, ‘it’s self-defence if I hit him back, innit? yeah!’
All of a sudden, he reappears by the side of the seated photographer. He repeatedly draws his closed fist towards his mouth, only to swiftly push it back out, coming incredibly close to the photographer’s face on each occasion. This action is repeated multiple times.
‘Are you alright?’ someone asks.
‘Yeah, tops, man,’ Liam answers. ‘Just got a bit of asthma.’
He grows restless when no one falls for his trap, yet the tense ambiance persists. He informs us that after completing his world tour, he intends to visit the pyramids and board a spacecraft to venture into outer space. From this elevated position, Liam predicts that he will look down on us.
‘Why do you think what happened in Brisbane happened?’ he asks, out of the blue.
We tell him that we don’t know.
He expresses that it’s unfair because the child had already shared their story in Australia and the UK, allowing their perspective to be heard. In contrast, he is barred from discussing the truth of what actually occurred. Despite traveling worldwide, signing autographs, and taking photos with fans without any issues, he can’t understand why this incident transpired differently this time. What was unique about this situation that led to these circumstances? he wonders.
We tell him we still don’t know, and he is getting very frustrated.
He turns to me and insists: ‘Why do you think it happened?’
I tell him I don’t know. That’s not good enough.
‘Why do you think it happened?’
Despite not knowing, his concerned handlers are stepping in. Liam’s frustration is escalating as he inches closer and closer. He persistently keeps on asking the same question repeatedly. [Paraphrased version]
As I find myself standing shoulder-to-shoulder, I can’t help but notice the clenched fists drawing nearer. In this moment, I’m weighing the value of a potential altercation. However, despite the situation, I choose to stand my ground, firmly planted and ready for whatever lies ahead.
‘WHY DO YOU THINK IT HAPPENED? I DON’T SMACK FANS… BUT I WANT TO SMACK YOU!’
In the fast-paced whirlwind of events, I noticed Liam’s protective aides moving swiftly towards him. One of them swiftly escorted Liam elsewhere, while another stepped in front of me, acting as a barrier between the star and myself. As Liam was being whisked away by his own security, I heard a pitiful protest from him.
‘No, I don’t mean that, I don’t want to smack him! Well… yeah I do, but I’m not going to. Honest!’
Liam is dragged off to bed. It’s 4.30am. We have not shaken hands.
The following day, Liam rises to journey towards Wellington, still grappling with a massive hangover. Upon arriving and checking into his hotel for the final night of the tour, he finds himself once more at the bar. He dons a loose-fitting fedora and sunglasses to conceal his bloodshot eyes.
On that particular evening, spectators deemed the event a failure, and the next day, Noel acknowledged that Liam’s intoxication had marred the performance.
As an overly enthusiastic fan, I can’t help but express my disappointment about the lackluster end-of-tour bash that unfolded in the hotel’s exclusive cocktail lounge, sealed off just for us. Sadly, within moments of its commencement, it seemed as if Liam was the only one left sipping on his drink alone.
On the following day, Oasis will journey back to Auckland to board a successive flight bound for Buenos Aires, Argentina’s capital. Their voyage will proceed smoothly, but the South American segment of their tour will be marked by an unfortunate incident – an amplifier catching fire during a performance on stage.
After wrapping up the tour, Liam makes it home, but his wife Patsy won’t greet him at the airport due to their prolonged separation. It’s been reported that she’s appalled by his conduct during the tour. Rumors suggest the marriage is in trouble.
Noel will announce that there will be no new Oasis album this year.
However, that’s what awaits Liam in the times to come. Now, finding himself solitary at the bar, Liam requests a series of bourbon and colas.
For once, he has nothing to say.
- First published in Ralph magazine, September 1998
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2024-10-15 03:55