Richard Ashcroft Explains Why He’s the “Only Person” to Support Oasis on Reunion Tour

Richard Ashcroft shares why he believes he's the perfect choice to open for Oasis during their UK reunion shows.

A Unique Bond Between Richard Ashcroft and Oasis

Richard Ashcroft, former frontman of The Verve, has opened up about a special conversation he had with Noel Gallagher. Ashcroft told Noel he was “the only person” fit to support Oasis on their highly anticipated UK reunion tour.

Last October, Ashcroft was announced as the special guest for all 17 Oasis UK and Ireland shows slated for this summer, sharing the stage with Liverpool’s Britpop band Cast. His opening slots are set for five shows at Wembley, another five at Manchester’s Heaton Park, two in Cardiff, three in Edinburgh, and two in Dublin.

Richard Ashcroft with Oasis, highlighting their enduring connection.

Why Richard Ashcroft? His Conversation with Noel Gallagher

During an interview on The Chris Moyles Show on Radio X, Ashcroft reflected on the chat with Noel Gallagher that convinced him he was the natural choice for the support slot.

“I see it as I’ve got a very important part to play in this,” Ashcroft said. “You know, back in the day Oasis supported The Verve and then it flipped around and we supported Oasis at Earls Court, then I as a solo artist have played with Oasis.”

He added, “I said to Noel, ‘You know, I think I’m the only person who could go in this slot. Especially for a huge outdoor show, because everyone wants you lot. And unless you’re coming with something, unless you’ve got something to offer, I don’t know what’s gonna happen’.”

A Shared History: The Verve and Oasis

Ashcroft’s relationship with Oasis runs deep. He was the inspiration behind their 1995 track ‘Cast No Shadow.’ The two bands have supported each other through the years: Oasis backed The Verve during their early days, and The Verve supported Oasis at iconic venues like The Bataclan in Paris.

Ashcroft even lent backing vocals on Oasis’ 1997 single, ‘All Around The World’ from the album Be Here Now.

Reflecting on their intertwined journeys, Ashcroft said, “I think it’s great that we’re still around. I’ve been there almost in that whole story together with them. Right from the day one. Before their album came out, first album, seen that. They were kind of like mega successful before I was. They were on Top Of The Pops. By the time it was my turn, it was like they’d been all over it.”

The Verve and Oasis touring together, forging Britpop history.

The Rarity of Two Bands Rising Together

Ashcroft marvels at the rare phenomenon of two bands growing together:

“They sold millions of albums, blah, blah, blah, but the rarity of that, that you could have two bands, both in transit off playing to 300 people. Both saying, ‘We’re gonna do this.’ ‘No, no we’re gonna do that’. And for that to happen is incredible.”

Recent Collaborations and Upcoming Projects

Liam and Noel Gallagher remain close with Ashcroft. In 2021, Liam joined Ashcroft on an acoustic version of his 2000 song ‘C’mon People (We’re Making It Now),’ featured on Ashcroft’s reimagined album Acoustic Hymns Vol. 1.

Ashcroft also surprised fans by joining Liam Gallagher in 2018 for a support set at London’s Finsbury Park during Liam’s headline show.

Last week, Ashcroft dropped a new single titled ‘Lover,’ which you can listen to above. Fans anticipate a new solo album announcement in the near future.

Conclusion

Richard Ashcroft’s deep-rooted connection with Oasis and his unique place in Britpop history make him the ultimate choice to open for their reunion tour. His story reminds us how intertwined music journeys can be, creating legendary moments for fans to cherish.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What makes Richard Ashcroft the perfect supporter for Oasis’s reunion tour?
  Ashcroft’s longstanding history with Oasis, including previous mutual support tours and collaborations, makes him uniquely suited to open for their reunion shows.
• How many shows will Richard Ashcroft open for Oasis?
  Ashcroft will open for all 17 UK and Ireland shows during Oasis’s 2025 reunion tour.
• Has Richard Ashcroft collaborated with Oasis members before?
  Yes, he has provided backing vocals for Oasis and collaborated with Liam Gallagher on acoustic projects.
• What new music has Richard Ashcroft released recently?
  He recently released the single ‘Lover’ and is expected to announce a new solo album soon.
• Why is the relationship between The Verve and Oasis significant?
  Both bands supported each other early on and grew to superstardom together, representing a rare and inspiring story in Britpop history.

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