Liam Gallagher famously missed Oasis’ MTV Unplugged show in 1996, and the story behind it remains one of rock’s most talked-about moments.
The performance took place at London’s Royal Festival Hall and was meant to showcase a more intimate, stripped-back version of the band’s biggest hits. But just before the band was due to perform, Liam Gallagher pulled out—claiming he had a sore throat.
Fans packed into the venue expecting to hear his voice. Instead, they were met with a surprise. Noel Gallagher stepped up and sang lead vocals for the entire set.
The band played on without Liam, and the show went on to become a classic MTV Unplugged session. Tracks like “Live Forever” and “Don’t Look Back in Anger” got a new acoustic life—and fans praised Noel’s vocals and stage presence.
To make things even more surreal, Liam Gallagher reportedly watched the performance from the Royal Box, drinking beer and heckling the band. The moment added a legendary layer of drama to Oasis history.
“I wasn’t well,” Liam explained years later.
“I wanted to support the band, even if I couldn’t sing.”
While the move caused tension at the time, both Gallagher brothers have since reflected on the night with mixed emotions. For many fans, it’s a symbol of both the brilliance and the chaos that defined Oasis.
Years later, Liam Gallagher would perform his own solo MTV Unplugged session—this time as the headliner, front and center.
That 1996 no-show remains a defining moment in British music. It was pure Oasis—unpredictable, unforgettable, and still talked about decades later.
Oasis – MTV Unplugged 23 August 1996 setlist
Hello
Some Might Say
Live Forever
Listen Up
The Masterplan
Don’t Look Back In Anger
Talk Tonight
Morning Glory
Round Are Way
Cast No Shadow
Whatever
Wonderwall
Source: Radio X
Photo: Getty