Alex James Plays Oasis Wonderwall Song at Party, Fans Ask Why

Blur bassist Alex James plays Oasis's 'Wonderwall' at parties. This 1995 song is still a big hit, showing how music can bring people together.
By Newsroom | Music, Entertainment |

Alex James, known for his role in the band Blur, has discussed his personal music playlist, which notably includes Oasis's iconic song "Wonderwall." This song appears to hold a special place for James, as he has been seen playing it at public events and has spoken about his experience learning its bassline. The discussion around "Wonderwall" also touches upon the broader context of Oasis's music, its enduring appeal, and the past rivalry between Blur and Oasis.

‘What do I play at a party? Oasis’s Wonderwall goes down a storm’: Alex James’s honest playlist - 1

"Wonderwall" as a Party Starter and Personal Challenge

Alex James has identified Oasis's "Wonderwall" as a song that "goes down a storm" at parties. This suggests the song possesses a widespread appeal that transcends specific musical tastes.

‘What do I play at a party? Oasis’s Wonderwall goes down a storm’: Alex James’s honest playlist - 2

  • James has been observed playing "Wonderwall" during DJ sets, notably with TV chef Jamie Oliver at their Big Feastival event. These performances have drawn attention, with some descriptions highlighting the somewhat surreal or compelling nature of the event.

  • Beyond its party-friendly status, James has also spoken about the technical aspect of the song, admitting it took him a significant amount of time and effort to learn the bass part for "Wonderwall." He described the bassline's groove as "genius."

  • In his "honest playlist" features, James has alluded to a variety of songs for different occasions, including one for intimate moments and another for funerals, indicating a considered approach to his musical selections.

The Enduring Legacy of "Wonderwall"

"Wonderwall," released in 1995, remains a prominent song in popular culture, frequently cited in discussions about music from the Britpop era and beyond.

‘What do I play at a party? Oasis’s Wonderwall goes down a storm’: Alex James’s honest playlist - 3

  • The song is recognized for its widespread popularity, with various sources noting its consistent ability to engage audiences.

  • It is mentioned as a staple in Oasis's live performances, often included in their setlists for reunion tours, suggesting its foundational importance to the band's identity.

  • The song's writing process is attributed to Noel Gallagher, who reportedly composed it while overlooking a sheep field in Wales.

  • Interestingly, there are reports that Liam Gallagher, Noel's brother and Oasis's lead singer, holds a less favorable view of "Wonderwall."

Oasis and Blur: A Shifting Dynamic

The relationship between Blur and Oasis, two dominant bands of the 1990s Britpop scene, has evolved over time. While once characterized by a notable rivalry, there are indications of a more amicable relationship in recent years.

Read More: Willie Colón, Salsa Music Pioneer, Dies at 75 in New York

‘What do I play at a party? Oasis’s Wonderwall goes down a storm’: Alex James’s honest playlist - 4

  • Alex James has expressed hopes for an Oasis reunion, even suggesting they could support Blur on tour.

  • Reports indicate that Noel and Liam Gallagher are now on better terms, a development that James views positively.

  • There have been reciprocal acknowledgments between the bands, such as Liam Gallagher naming a Blur song as his favorite of the year.

Expert Analysis

The sustained popularity of "Wonderwall" can be attributed to several factors:

  • Melodic Accessibility: The song features a memorable and relatively simple chord progression and melody, making it easy for listeners to engage with.

  • Emotional Resonance: Its lyrics, while sometimes open to interpretation, often evoke feelings of longing and connection, which resonate broadly.

  • Cultural Ubiquity: "Wonderwall" became a defining anthem of the 1990s Britpop movement, cementing its place in the cultural landscape. Its continued presence in media, at events, and in personal playlists reinforces its status.

Conclusion

Alex James's inclusion of Oasis's "Wonderwall" in his personal playlists and his public performances of the song underscore its enduring significance. James's candidness about learning the bassline reveals a deeper appreciation for the song's craft. The ongoing popularity of "Wonderwall," coupled with evolving relationships between the artists who defined the Britpop era, paints a picture of music that continues to resonate and evolve in its cultural impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why did Alex James play Oasis's 'Wonderwall' at his party?
Alex James played 'Wonderwall' because it is a popular song that always makes parties fun. He has been seen playing it at events like the Big Feastival with Jamie Oliver.
Q: Is it true Alex James found Oasis's 'Wonderwall' bassline hard to learn?
Yes, Alex James said it took him a long time to learn the bass part for 'Wonderwall.' He thought the bassline was very clever and well-made.
Q: Why is Oasis's 'Wonderwall' still popular after being released in 1995?
'Wonderwall' is still popular because it has a nice tune and words that many people feel connected to. It was a big song from the 1990s Britpop time and is still played a lot.
Q: What is the relationship between Blur and Oasis now?
The old rivalry between Blur and Oasis seems to be over. Alex James has said he hopes for an Oasis reunion and thinks it's good that the Gallagher brothers are getting along better.
Q: Did Liam Gallagher like Oasis's 'Wonderwall'?
Reports say Liam Gallagher, the singer for Oasis, did not like 'Wonderwall' very much. Noel Gallagher wrote the song.