Maybe? Definitely.

Oasis’ “Definitely Maybe” came out 30 years ago. How does it still hold together today? 

by Addison Schmidt

Graphic by Emily Carmichael

The ‘90s were defined by rivalries: Biggie and Tupac; Mariah Carey and Whitney Houston; the Bulls and the Knicks; and, across the pond, Blur and Oasis —two Britpop bands that dueled as much in false bravado and attitude as they did in their singles. 

What makes the Britpop battle stand out from the others, however, is just how insular the rivalry got. We can go back and forth forever between Blur and Oasis, but perhaps the most interesting rivalry existed not between the two bands, but in Oasis alone — the band’s own Noel and Liam Galagher. 

Rivalries push people to their fullest extent. In the best-case scenario, especially in music, they guide artists to their best performances, songs, and albums out of sheer spite or a desire to climb the charts. In August, 30 years ago, Oasis proved this theory true, releasing their debut album Definitely Maybe, a totally definitive statement on life, rock, and youth in the ‘90s. 

What’s the Story of Morning Glory? might be Oasis’ most famous album, but Definitely Maybe marked the beginning of a partnership so intense and volatile that the Gallagher’s relationship became a story of its own that has rivaled the presence of their music. 

Just as its title reflects a contradiction, Definitely Maybe demonstrates how tension often leads to the best results. The album, which came together despite a series of setbacks, is a once-in-a-generation introductory album. The kind of introduction that only comes together when a band really knows who they are. 

Now that Oasis is back together and planning to tour in 2025, forgoing any break-ups between now and then, taking the time to look back on Definitely Maybe is all the more fitting. One can’t observe the modern form of Oasis without appreciating their origin. In the lyrics of songs like “Supersonic” and “Cigarettes and Alcohol,” one finds oneself confronted with the melodies and contradictions that make Oasis a constant staple, even today.