When compiling a comprehensive list of influential rock bands that shaped the sound and style of Oasis, the list is extensive and varied. Prominent names like The Beatles, Sex Pistols, The Kinks, Elvis Presley, and The Rolling Stones are likely to emerge as key inspirations. For Noel Gallagher, openly embracing these influences is part of the creative process. He believes that acknowledging and channeling these inspirations leads to a richer musical experience.

In an interview with MusicRadar in 2024, Noel stated, “When I’m crafting a record, my philosophy is straightforward: if a song reminds me of T. Rex, why not amplify that resemblance? I often see other bands shy away from their influences, but I prefer to celebrate them. If I create a track that echoes The Kinks, I?ll embrace that and enhance it.? This perspective explains why Oasis frequently honored their musical heroes by covering their songs, showcasing the profound connections they felt with these legendary artists.

Let?s delve into ten outstanding cover tracks by Oasis, including special entries dedicated to the impressive solo work of both Noel and Liam Gallagher.

1. “Heroes”
Artist: David Bowie

The unforgettable song “Heroes” marks a significant moment for Noel Gallagher, as it was the first track by David Bowie he ever experienced. He recalls seeing the music video back in 1981, which left an indelible mark on him. “It completely blew my mind. A few days later, I bought Best of Bowie from a local second-hand record shop and never looked back,” Noel shared with Rolling Stone in 2016. He reflected on the daunting challenge faced by Bowie’s contemporaries in the late ’70s, realizing that every new Bowie release seemed to surpass the last in brilliance.

2. “To Be Someone (Didn’t We Have a Nice Time)”
Artist: The Jam

During the late ’90s, Oasis often featured a segment in their live performances allowing Noel to showcase his solo acoustic talents. Frequently, he chose to cover The Jam’s “To Be Someone (Didn’t We Have a Nice Time)” from their iconic 1978 album All Mod Cons. Paul Weller had a significant impact on Oasis’s artistry, and in later years, he expressed admiration for their evolution. In a 2018 interview with NME, Weller stated, “I’ve appreciated everything Noel has done independently. His songwriting prowess is well-known, and for me, he continues to improve.?

3. “Hey Hey, My My (Into the Black)”
Artist: Neil Young

It might surprise some to learn that Oasis once shared a festival stage with the legendary Neil Young on August 31, 1996, in Ontario, Canada. Noel mentioned in an interview with Mojo in 2011 that Young had always shown respect towards Oasis. He admired Young’s authenticity in music, noting, “He?s created something truly unique, like a car that runs on grass. People tend to fall into two categories: those who appreciate Neil Young and those who don?t, and the latter group is missing out.” Liam Gallagher, in a 2019 conversation with Billboard, remarked on the parallels between his solo work and Young?s approach, stating, “I stick to my formula, and it works. If some think that?s too safe, that?s their issue. Neil Young has maintained his style for decades without criticism.”

4. “My Generation”
Artist: The Who

Liam Gallagher’s admiration for The Who is well-documented, as he has had the opportunity to support them live on several occasions. In a 2019 social media post, he shared that his favorite tracks include “My Generation,” “Disguises,” and “Armenia City in the Sky.” Interestingly, Pete Townshend expressed his mixed feelings about Oasis’s impending reunion in 2025, admitting he was “disappointed” because he truly enjoyed their solo projects. He shared this sentiment with The Standard in 2024. (As a side note, if you?re not following Liam on X, it?s highly recommended for a good laugh.)

5. “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere”
Artist: Bob Dylan

In a rare interview in 2022 with The Wall Street Journal, Bob Dylan offered a simple yet profound compliment, saying, “I like both the Oasis brothers.” This sentiment is particularly notable given Dylan’s generally reserved nature. We now turn our attention to songs recorded by both Noel and Liam following the split of Oasis, beginning with Noel’s rendition of “You Ain’t Goin’ Nowhere” with his band High Flying Birds. This version draws from the 1971 release found on Bob Dylan’s Greatest Hits Volume II, distinct from the Basement Tapes version which features different lyrics.

6. “There Is a Light That Never Goes Out”
Artist: The Smiths

Noel Gallagher enjoys a close friendship with Johnny Marr, the former guitarist of The Smiths. The two are often seen together at Manchester City soccer matches, marking a full-circle moment for Noel, who was deeply influenced by The Smiths during his formative years as a musician. “I never created anything as remarkable as The Smiths, who were perhaps the most unique band to emerge from England,” he remarked during a 2018 episode of Once in a Lifetime Sessions (via Far Out). “I had a vision of how music should feel, but the reality of their songs was simply astonishing.”

7. “Natural Mystic”
Artist: Bob Marley and the Wailers

You might not immediately associate a reggae song by Bob Marley and the Wailers with a Britpop artist, but Liam Gallagher?s cover of “Natural Mystic” resonates surprisingly well. In 1998, both Gallagher brothers were asked by NME about their musical preferences for their funerals. While Noel selected “Going Underground” by The Jam, Liam chose “Natural Mystic,” highlighting its significance to him.

8. “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”
Artist: The Rolling Stones

Liam’s admiration for The Rolling Stones is evident, though he also expresses relief at not having to live the same lifestyle. In an August 2017 interview with GQ, he humorously referenced Mick Jagger, stating, “Kudos to old dinosaur hips, but that?s not me. I?m anti-entertainment. Poor guy has to keep dancing until he?s 108.” A few months later, he spoke more fondly of the Stones in an NME interview, saying, “While the Beatles were magical, the Stones epitomize rock ‘n’ roll for me. The Beatles felt like wizards, while the Stones were the real deal, man.”

9. “I Am the Walrus”
Artist: The Beatles

No discussion of Oasis would be complete without acknowledging their numerous covers of The Beatles. The impact of The Beatles on Oasis is so immense that they are occasionally humorously referred to as the world?s largest Beatles cover band. Liam once poignantly stated on social media, “If The Beatles were to defile my handbag, I?d still keep my polo mints in it.” This illustrates the profound and enduring influence the Fab Four had on Gallagher and the band.

10. “Help!”
Artist: The Beatles

Noel recalls a heartwarming connection to The Beatles, noting, “I literally arrived into the world listening to their music.” He shared with BBC News in 2007, “The album Sgt. Pepper holds a special place in my heart because I was born on May 29, just days before its release on June 1. As I was being born at Saint Mary’s Hospital in Manchester, it was playing on the hospital radio.” This connection highlights the deep-rooted influence of the Beatles on his life and music.