Time flies. It’s hard to believe that Definitely Maybe, which is considered by most to be THE definitive Britpop album, is 24 years old. At the time of release in August 1994, it was the fastest selling debut album in UK history. Even to this day, it deserves to be looked upon as a watershed moment in music history.
Providing an optimistic counterpoint to the often negative subject matter of grunge, “Definitely Maybe” was a confident, sharp debut that almost singlehandedly gave rise to the Britpop genre. Tracks like the legendary “Live Forever” are never going to leave your head when you hear them, and “Rock ‘N’ Roll Star” is the sharpest song that Oasis could’ve debuted with. A fitting choice that inspired legions of teens to start bands of their own.
What is it about this album, though, that made every British teenager pick it up? It’s simple – Noel Gallagher and company were just THAT good at crafting a pop album that rocks out as well. There is no discernible filler here, either – and unlike 1997’s “Be Here Now” which signaled the death of Britpop, even the longer songs here never lose their luster (especially the excellent “Slide Away”). Oasis hit a fever pitch with 1995’s “(What’s The Story) Morning Glory”, but Definitely Maybe still ranks as their best – at least for this listener. If you’re wondering about the origins of Britpop, you need this in your life. It’s the embodiment of a nearly perfect album.
I live my life for the stars that shine
People say, “It’s just a waste of time”
When they said, “I should feed my head”
That to me was just a day in bed
