In the pantheon of rock ‘n’ roll history, few bands have weaponized the B-side quite like Oasis. For most artists, the B-side is a dumping ground: a half-finished demo, a forgettable live track, or a remix no one asked for. But for Noel Gallagher, the B-side was a battlefield.
Between 1994 and 1998—the band’s myth-making golden era—Oasis released a torrent of non-album tracks that weren't just good; they were often better than the A-sides. In the crowded pubs of mid-90s Britain, you weren't a true fan if you only owned (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. No, the real believers were the ones clutching the “Some Might Say” single, skipping the title track to blast the ferocious “Acquiesce.”
To understand Oasis, you must ignore the stadium anthems and dive into the deep cuts. Here is the definitive guide to the songs that built a empire from the B-side up.
In the modern era of streaming, the concept of the "B-side" has all but vanished. Songs are simply tracks on an album or standalone singles. But in the 1990s, during the golden age of Britpop, the B-side was an art form—and no one mastered it quite like Oasis.
While their contemporaries like Blur or Pulp often used the flipside of a single for experimental jams or throwaway sketches, Oasis treated their B-sides with a startling seriousness. For the Gallagher brothers, a single wasn't just a marketing tool; it was a double-event. The result was a catalog of songs that many argue rivals the official studio albums in quality.
Here is a deep dive into the world of Oasis B-sides: the culture, the classics, and the legendary compilation that defined a generation.
The B-sides of Oasis tell a different story than the albums. The albums were the polished, world-conquering statements; the B-sides were the raw, unfiltered soul of the band. They were where Noel allowed himself to be more experimental ("The Swamp Song") or deeply personal ("Talk Tonight").
If you are a casual listener who only knows "Wonderwall" and "Champagne Supernova," you have only heard half the story. Dive into the B-sides, and you will find a band that wasn't just the biggest in the world, but arguably the most prolific. As Noel Gallagher wrote in the liner notes of The Masterplan: "They are the songs that the fans know and love, and they are the songs that we know and love."
In the case of Oasis, the flip side of the coin was just as shiny as the front.
In the mid-90s, Oasis was so prolific that their "discarded" tracks often outshone other bands' greatest hits. This era of songwriting is largely defined by the belief that the B-side (secondary recording on a single [35]) should be as strong as the A-side, a philosophy Noel Gallagher applied by writing new songs specifically for singles rather than saving them for future albums [12, 33]. The Masterplan: The "Hidden" Studio Album Released in November 1998 The Masterplan
is a compilation of B-sides from the band's first three albums ( Definitely Maybe (What's the Story) Morning Glory? Be Here Now
) [9, 12]. It is widely regarded as one of the best B-side collections ever released, with many fans arguing it is superior to several of the band's proper studio albums [3, 12, 13].
Originally intended only for markets like the US and Japan where import singles were expensive, its high quality led to a global release that has since sold over 5 million copies [3, 12]. Essential Oasis B-Sides "Acquiesce" (B-side to Some Might Say
Often cited as the quintessential Oasis track, it features a rare vocal duet between Liam (verses) and Noel (chorus) [1, 2]. "The Masterplan" (B-side to Wonderwall
An orchestral epic that Noel has frequently called the best song he ever wrote [2, 12]. He later admitted it was "mental" to release it as a B-side instead of saving it for an album [33]. "Half the World Away" (B-side to
A wistful acoustic ballad that became a cultural staple in the UK as the theme tune for the sitcom The Royle Family "Talk Tonight" (B-side to Some Might Say
Written by Noel after he briefly quit the band during a disastrous 1994 US tour; it credits a woman he met in San Francisco for "saving his life" and convincing him to return [7, 33]. "Rockin' Chair" (B-side to Roll With It
A fan-favourite that showcases Liam's peak-era vocal grit and Noel's gift for melancholic melodies [4, 12]. "Stay Young" (B-side to D'You Know What I Mean?
A high-energy anthem that captures the band's "swaggering" confidence during the height of Britpop [4, 12]. Later Era Gems (Post-1998)
While the early B-sides are the most famous, the 2000s produced several "hidden" highlights: "Let's All Make Believe" (B-side to Go Let It Out
Frequently called one of the most honest songs about the Gallaghers' turbulent relationship [7]. "Idler's Dream" (B-side to The Hindu Times
A rare piano-only ballad that stands out for its unique production style [2]. "Shout It Out Loud" (B-side to Stop Crying Your Heart Out An anthemic track often mentioned as a highlight of the Heathen Chemistry era [10, 11].
of the most recommended B-sides for a "complete" Oasis playlist?
When fans talk about Oasis, they aren't just talking about the hits; the band is legendary for having B-sides that were often better than other bands' lead singles. Because they released so many high-quality "throwaway" tracks in the mid-90s, several blog posts have done the heavy lifting of sorting the gems from the filler.
If you're looking for a deep dive into the Oasis "Masterplan" era and beyond, here are a few useful blog posts and resources:
Top 10 Oasis B-Sides (Not on The Masterplan): This post on Patrick H Willems is great if you already know the famous ones like "Acquiesce" and want to find deeper cuts. It ranks songs like "Let's All Make Believe" and "Idler's Dream" that didn't make the official 1998 compilation.
Track-by-Track Analysis: "Headshrinker": For a look at the "aura of the B-side," Writing about... breaks down why tracks like "Headshrinker" and "Rockin' Chair" were essential to the band's peak-era bravado.
The Masterplan (1998) Classic Rock Review: If you want a retrospective on the definitive B-side collection, Classic Rock Review explains why the album holds up as a standalone masterpiece, highlighting "The Swamp Song" and the title track.
A Pointless Guide To Oasis LPs & EPs: For the completists, weatherfish provides a blunt, opinionated look at the singles and their accompanying tracks, including rare covers like "Hey, Hey, My, My". Essential Oasis B-Sides to Start With
If you're just beginning your journey into their non-album tracks, these are widely considered the "Big Three": Oasis debut single and genre classification - Facebook
The phrase "on paper" is often used to describe Oasis b-sides
because their quality was so high that they were famously "better than most bands' A-sides"
. Many of these tracks, originally released as secondary songs on singles, eventually formed the 1998 compilation album The Masterplan
, which is widely considered one of the best b-side collections in music history. Key Oasis B-Sides oasis b-sides
: Often cited as the definitive Oasis b-side, featuring both Liam and Noel on vocals. The Masterplan
: The title track of their compilation, noted for its orchestral arrangement. Talk Tonight
: An intimate acoustic track written by Noel Gallagher after he briefly left the band during a 1994 tour. Half the World Away : Famous as the theme tune for the UK sitcom The Royle Family
: A fast-paced punk-inspired track that "shouldn't have worked on paper" due to its mix of influences like Wham! and The Sex Pistols. Stay Young : Recorded during the Be Here Now sessions and considered a "lost" classic by many fans. Mojo Magazine The Masterplan Compilation Every Oasis B-Side Ranked! - Mojo Magazine
The Ultimate Guide to Oasis B-Sides
Oasis, one of the most iconic and influential bands of the 1990s, has a treasure trove of amazing songs that didn't make it to their studio albums. These gems are known as B-sides, and they're a testament to the band's incredible songwriting skills and creative depth. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the best Oasis B-sides, exploring their history, significance, and enduring appeal.
What are B-sides?
B-sides are songs that are released on the flip side of a single vinyl record or as part of a compilation album. They're often considered secondary to the A-side, which is the main single being promoted. However, many B-sides have become beloved by fans and critics alike, offering a unique insight into an artist's creative process and experimentation.
The Oasis B-Sides
Oasis released numerous B-sides throughout their career, many of which are now highly sought after by fans and collectors. Here are some of the most notable and essential Oasis B-sides:
Essential B-Sides Collections
If you're looking to explore Oasis B-sides, here are some essential collections to check out:
The Significance of Oasis B-Sides
Oasis B-sides are more than just secondary tracks; they're a testament to the band's creative genius and experimentation. These songs showcase the band's ability to craft memorable melodies, lyrics, and performances, often pushing the boundaries of their signature sound.
Why Oasis B-Sides Endure
So, why do Oasis B-sides remain so beloved by fans and critics? Here are a few reasons:
Conclusion
Oasis B-sides are a treasure trove of amazing songs that showcase the band's creative genius, experimentation, and songwriting skills. From melodic ballads to catchy rock tracks, these gems are a must-listen for any Oasis fan. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just discovering these hidden gems, this guide provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of Oasis B-sides. So, dive in, and experience the magic of Oasis' lesser-known tracks!
In the mid-90s, Noel Gallagher was writing songs so effortlessly that he treated potential chart-toppers like loose change. While most bands would kill for a single hit, Oasis routinely tucked some of their most "biblical" anthems onto the back of CD singles, creating a parallel discography that fans often argue is superior to their actual studio albums. The "Hidden" Masterpieces
The standard for Oasis B-sides was set so high that the band eventually released The Masterplan in 1998—a compilation that many critics consider the band's "true" third album.
The Masterplan Noel Gallagher’s self-described "magnum opus". Initially a B-side to "Wonderwall," it features soaring strings and lyrics about life's uncertainty—a song Noel later regretted "wasting" on a flip-side.
Acquiesce The ultimate brotherhood anthem. It’s one of the few tracks where both Liam and Noel share lead vocals, perfectly capturing the chemistry that defined the band's peak.
Half The World Away A gentle, acoustic departure from their usual wall of sound. This track became a cultural staple in the UK after being used as the theme for the sitcom The Royle Family.
Talk Tonight Recorded in the wake of Noel nearly quitting the band in 1994, this raw acoustic track is famous for its intimate intro: "I'll just take me watch off". The Golden Era Flip-Sides Every Oasis B-Side Ranked! - Mojo Magazine
It was clear Oasis still enjoyed and valued the lost of art of the B-side, making our run down the source of plenty of surprises. Mojo Magazine
For most bands, B-sides are the songs that weren't good enough for the album. For Oasis in the mid-90s, they were often the best songs they ever wrote.
Noel Gallagher was so prolific during the Definitely Maybe and (What’s the Story) Morning Glory? era that tracks relegated to the back of CD singles could have topped the charts on their own. This "quality and quantity" mentality—inspired by bands like The Smiths—meant that even secondary cuts were "biblical".
Here’s why Oasis B-sides are essentially a "secret" greatest hits collection: The Heavy Hitters
"Acquiesce": Originally the B-side to "Cigarettes & Alcohol," this track features both Liam and Noel on vocals. It’s widely considered one of their most powerful anthems and is a staple of their live sets.
"The Masterplan": This orchestral masterpiece was tucked away as a B-side to "Wonderwall". Noel has famously admitted he was "too young" to realize it should have been on an album or even a lead single.
"Talk Tonight": A raw, unvarnished acoustic track recorded during a period of band turmoil. It showcases Noel’s vulnerability and remains a fan favorite for its intimacy. Essential Listening
If you want to dive deeper than the radio hits, look for these tracks (most of which were compiled on the 1998 album The Masterplan):
"Half The World Away": The B-side to "Whatever" and the iconic theme for The Royle Family. Beyond the Champagne Supernova: Why Oasis B-Sides Are
"Listen Up": A sprawling rock track that many fans argue is superior to most of the songs on their debut album.
"Rockin' Chair": Another example of Noel’s peak songwriting that somehow missed the cut for Morning Glory.
Whether it's the raw energy of "Acquiesce" or the acoustic beauty of "Half The World Away," these songs prove that at their peak, Oasis didn't just have hits—they had a bottomless well of anthems. In Defense of Oasis | Yale Daily News
For fans of Oasis, the B-sides aren't just "extra" tracks; they represent the height of Noel Gallagher's songwriting during the mid-90s. Many critics and fans argue that the songs Noel "threw away" as B-sides during the Definitely Maybe (What's the Story) Morning Glory? eras were better than most other bands' greatest hits.
Here is a guide to the most essential Oasis B-sides that defined their peak era. The "Lost" Masterpieces
These tracks are so highly regarded that they are often included in live sets and fan-favorite lists alongside the band's biggest A-sides.
: Originally the B-side to "Some Might Say," this is the ultimate Oasis anthem. It is the only song to feature both Gallagher brothers sharing lead vocals on the verses and choruses, perfectly capturing their early camaraderie. The Masterplan
: The B-side to "Wonderwall" and arguably Noel's greatest ever composition. It features a full orchestral arrangement and is so beloved that it became the title track of their 1998 B-side compilation album, The Masterplan Talk Tonight
: Written after Noel briefly left the band during a disastrous 1994 US tour, this acoustic track is celebrated for its raw, intimate production and vulnerable vocal performance by Noel. Hard-Hitting Rockers
Oasis B-sides often showcased the band's more aggressive, punk-influenced side that didn't always make the radio-friendly albums. Oasis b sides are amazing songs
Oasis is famous for having B-sides that were often better than other bands' biggest hits. During their 1990s peak, Noel Gallagher was so prolific that he "threw away" future classics as extra tracks on CD singles. The Heavy Hitters (The Masterplan Era)
Most of the band's legendary B-sides from 1994–1997 were collected on the 1998 compilation album, The Masterplan. Every Oasis B-Side Ranked! - Mojo Magazine
The Second Catalog: Why Oasis B-Sides Defined an Era For most bands, a B-side is a "throwaway"—a demo or a live track used to pad out a CD single. For
, it was where they hid their masterpieces. During the mid-90s, Noel Gallagher was so prolific that he famously "tucked away songs other bands would sell their own grandmothers to have" as flipsides. The quality was so high that in 1998, the band released The Masterplan
, a compilation of these tracks that many fans rank as their second-best album. The Songs That Could Have Been A-Sides
Critics and fans often argue that if Noel had saved these tracks for a third album instead of "relegating" them to B-sides, the band's trajectory might have been even more legendary. ICMP Songwriting Tutors | BBC 6 Music | Musicology | Part 6 9 Oct 2024 —
No other band in history treated their "throwaway" tracks with as much reverence as Oasis. During the mid-90s, the Gallagher brothers didn't just release singles; they released mini-albums where the extra tracks were often better than most other bands' lead singles. The Golden Era of the "B-Side"
While most artists tucked filler tracks onto the back of a CD single, Noel Gallagher was in a creative purple patch so intense that he was "giving away" future classics. Fans who bought the singles for hits like Some Might Say or Wonderwall often found themselves playing the B-sides just as much, if not more, than the A-sides. "The Masterplan": The Greatest B-Side Collection
In 1998, Oasis released The Masterplan, a compilation of B-sides that many critics argue is their third-best album. It serves as a definitive roadmap of the band's peak, featuring:
"Acquiesce": The ultimate Gallagher duet, famously featuring both Liam and Noel on vocals.
"The Masterplan": A sweeping, orchestral masterpiece that Noel has famously admitted should have been an A-side.
"Talk Tonight": A raw, acoustic fan favorite inspired by the time Noel briefly quit the band during their first US tour.
"Half the World Away": A gentle acoustic ballad that eventually became the theme song for the iconic British sitcom The Royle Family. Why They Matter
Oasis B-sides represent a time when physical media was king. In the UK, the four-track CD single was a staple, and the Gallaghers used that format to build a deep, secondary discography. Songs like Rockin' Chair, Step Out, and Listen Up aren't just deep cuts; they are essential pillars of the Britpop movement.
For many fans, the B-sides are where the "real" Oasis lives—away from the overplayed radio hits and in the heart of the raw, melodic rock that defined a generation. Oasis trivia: All you need to know! - V&A
Oasis is famously known for a catalog of B-sides that often surpassed the quality of most bands' lead singles, primarily concentrated in the mid-90s during the Definitely Maybe and Morning Glory eras. The definitive entry point for exploring these tracks is the 1998 compilation album The Masterplan , which collects 14 of their most essential "deep cuts". Essential "Big Four" B-Sides
These tracks are widely considered by fans and critics from Mojo Magazine and Rolling Stone as the pinnacle of Noel Gallagher’s songwriting during the band’s peak:
Acquiesce: A high-energy anthem featuring both Liam (verses) and Noel (chorus) on vocals. It was originally the B-side to "Some Might Say".
The Masterplan: An orchestral epic originally appearing on the "Wonderwall" single. Noel has famously called it one of the best songs he ever wrote .
Talk Tonight: A raw, acoustic ballad written by Noel in Las Vegas after a disastrous show at the Whiskey A Go Go .
Half the World Away: A bittersweet, Burt Bacharach-inspired track that gained massive popularity as the theme for the TV show The Royle Family. Fan-Favorite "Hidden Gems" Every Oasis B-Side Ranked! - Mojo Magazine
The story of Oasis isn’t just told through their record-breaking albums; for many fans, the true genius of the Gallagher brothers lies in their B-sides. During the 1990s, Noel Gallagher was so prolific that he famously relegated songs to the "flip-side" of singles that most bands would have built an entire career around. The Golden Era (1994–1996)
In the mid-90s, the CD single was king, and Oasis treated them like mini-albums. While most Britpop contemporaries used B-sides for experimental filler or live tracks, Noel Gallagher viewed them as essential value for the fans. This era produced tracks that are now considered stone-cold classics: "I'd Like to Know" (1994) - A melodic,
"Acquiesce": Originally the B-side to Some Might Say, this anthem is the definitive vocal collaboration between Liam and Noel. It captures the raw energy of their early years and often opened their massive stadium sets.
"The Masterplan": Often cited as the "best song Noel ever wrote," it was hidden on the back of the Wonderwall single. Noel has since admitted that he was "too young and too stupid" to realize it should have been a lead single or a centerpiece on an album.
"Half the World Away": This tender, acoustic track (B-side to Whatever) became a cultural touchstone in the UK as the theme song for the beloved sitcom The Royle Family. The Masterplan: A "B-side" Album
By 1998, the quality of these tracks was so undeniable that the band released The Masterplan, a compilation of B-sides that many critics argue is superior to their third studio album, Be Here Now. This collection allowed global audiences to hear tracks that were previously only available on expensive UK imports. It solidified the band's reputation for depth, featuring everything from the psychedelic "The Swamp Song" to the soulful "Rockin' Chair". Essential Tracks Every Fan Should Know
If you're diving into the Oasis "hidden" catalog, these are the essential pillars:
Talk Tonight: Inspired by Noel nearly quitting the band in 1994, this raw acoustic track shows a vulnerable side rarely seen in their rowdy A-sides.
Stay Young: A high-energy anthem that was originally intended for Be Here Now but was swapped for "Magic Pie"—a decision fans still debate today.
Headshrinker: A blistering, punk-rock throwback that showcases Liam’s vocal grit at its absolute peak.
Underneath the Sky: A melody-heavy track that proved Oasis could do sophisticated pop just as well as stadium rock. Why They Matter Today
Oasis B-sides represent a time when the music industry had the budget and the creative "swagger" to bury masterpieces on the back of 7-inch vinyls. For the "parka monkeys" and casual listeners alike, these songs are the secret history of the biggest band of the 90s—the tracks that prove they were far more than just "Wonderwall."
Are you looking to buy the vinyl or a remastered collection of these tracks for your own library?
While Oasis is defined by the world-conquering anthems of Definitely Maybe and (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, their true soul often resides in their B-sides. During the mid-90s, Noel Gallagher was so prolific that he frequently relegated stadium-sized classics to the flip side of singles, creating a parallel discography that rivaled the main albums in both quality and emotional depth.
The peak of this phenomenon is captured in the 1998 compilation The Masterplan. Tracks like "Acquiesce" and "The Masterplan" itself are not mere outtakes; they are foundational pillars of the Britpop era. "Acquiesce," with its dual-vocal attack, serves as the ultimate anthem for the Gallagher brothers' volatile but creative chemistry. Meanwhile, "The Masterplan" showcases a sophisticated, orchestral side of Noel’s songwriting that signaled a departure from simple bar-room rock toward something more cinematic.
Other tracks, such as the punk-infused "Headshrinker" or the melancholic "Half the World Away," highlight the band's range. The latter, specifically, became a cultural touchstone in the UK, proving that Oasis could be just as effective with an acoustic guitar and a vulnerable vocal as they were with a wall of distorted Marshalls.
Ultimately, the Oasis B-sides represent a moment in music history where a band was so confident—and perhaps so reckless—that they could afford to "waste" masterpieces on the back of a CD single. For the die-hard fans, these songs aren't just extras; they are the evidence of a band at the absolute height of its powers.
Oasis is famously known for having B-sides that often rivalled, or even surpassed, their A-side singles in quality—a testament to Noel Gallagher's prolific songwriting during the 1990s. Many of these "lost hits" were eventually collected on the seminal 1998 compilation The Masterplan. Essential B-Sides (The Masterplan Era)
These tracks are widely considered essential listening for any Oasis fan:
"The Masterplan": Often cited as one of Noel’s best songs, originally released as a B-side to "Wonderwall".
"Acquiesce": A rare track featuring both Liam and Noel on lead vocals, found on the "Some Might Say" single.
"Talk Tonight": A vulnerable, acoustic fan favorite written by Noel after a particularly difficult show in Los Angeles.
"Half the World Away": Well-known as the theme for The Royle Family, it was originally a B-side for "Cigarettes & Alcohol".
"Listen Up": A high-energy rocker from the "Cigarettes & Alcohol" single that many fans believe should have been on Definitely Maybe. Hidden Gems (Post-1998)
While the 90s are seen as the golden age of Oasis B-sides, the 2000s still yielded high-quality tracks that didn't make the studio albums:
In the pantheon of British rock, few bands have inspired as much ferocious devotion—or as much critical re-evaluation—as Oasis. For a glorious, chaotic decade spanning the mid-90s to the early 2000s, Liam and Noel Gallagher didn’t just write songs; they penned anthems for a generation. We all know the hits. “Wonderwall” is inescapable. “Don’t Look Back in Anger” closes every pub singalong. “Champagne Supernova” is the defining comedown of the Britpop era.
But for the true fanatic—the one who wore out their Definitely Maybe cassette and argued in schoolyards over whether Be Here Now is underrated genius or cocaine-addled bloat—the real treasure was never the singles. It was the B-side. To put it bluntly: Oasis B-sides are not throwaway tracks. They are, in aggregate, the greatest B-side discography in the history of rock music. For many fans, the B-sides constitute a phantom fourth album, one that sits comfortably alongside the holy trinity of Definitely Maybe, (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, and The Masterplan.
Let’s uncork the bottle and dive into the landfill, the swagger, the heartbreaking melancholy, and the sheer lunacy of the Oasis B-side.
Vibe: Dad rock, but confident. Noel’s songwriting becomes more introspective; Liam finds his footing.
The Final Gem: "Those Swollen Hand Blues" (B-side to Falling Down). A 4-minute instrumental blues jam. It sounds like a hangover feels. A perfect, weary end to the journey.
You want fun? Here’s the most fun B-side. A rollicking, acoustic singalong about Saturday nights, stolen kisses, and "getting high." It’s the musical equivalent of Mickey Mouse on a council estate. The brass section near the end is pure joy. It’s the song you play when the sun comes out on a hungover Sunday morning.
“The Masterplan” (1995)
The ultimate proof of Noel’s embarrassment of riches. Rumor has it he wrote this one and thought, “Nah, not good enough for (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?” Are you mad? With its psychedelic piano, cosmic lyrics (“Dance if you wanna dance… because we think that life is a journey”), and a chorus that soars higher than a 747, The Masterplan became the unofficial anthem of B-side obsessives. It’s so beloved that Oasis later named a compilation after it.
“Acquiesce” (1995)
The holy grail of Liam-and-Noel duets. “We need each other, we believe in one another” – sung separately by the battling brothers. It’s the closest we’ll ever get to a truce. The riff is pure electricity, and the “Because we need each other” bridge still gives chills. How this was left off Morning Glory is rock ‘n’ roll’s greatest mystery.
“Talk Tonight” (1995)
Noel’s most vulnerable moment, recorded alone in a hotel room in San Francisco after a near-band-breakup. A quiet, acoustic gem about a mysterious woman (Melissa Lim) who talked him off the ledge. “I’m not supposed to be here, but it’s okay.” Proof that under the bravado, Noel could break your heart.
“Fade Away” (1994)
Before it got a second life on the Help charity album, this was a Definitely Maybe–era B-side. A punk-rock cry of frustration (“We don’t see as we think we should, and we don’t say as we know we could”) that barrels along like a train with no brakes. It’s Some Might Say’s angrier cousin.