Zak Starkey is ‘gutted’ not asked to join Oasis reunion tour

Zak Starkey is ‘gutted’ not asked to join Oasis reunion tour

Former Oasis drummer Zak Starkey says he’s “gutted” to be left out of the 2025 Oasis reunion tour, despite offering to join.

Zak Starkey says he felt “gutted” after learning he won’t join Oasis on their 2025 reunion tour.

Oasis will reunite this July, kicking off in Cardiff before five major shows at Manchester’s Heaton Park. It marks the first collaboration between Liam and Noel Gallagher since their 2009 split.

Zak Starkey, Oasis’ drummer from 2004 to 2009, reacted on BBC Breakfast (May 27). He appeared to promote his new band Mantra of the Cosmos, which includes Bez, Shaun Ryder, and ex-Oasis bassist Andy Bell.

Their debut single, “Domino Bones”, originally came from Noel Gallagher. Zak said: “I was blown away. Noel sent me the tune. He’s the greatest songwriter of my generation.”

When asked about the reunion, Zak didn’t hold back. “I texted them: ‘Why am I not in it?’”

He continued, “They got comfortable with new musicians. That’s probably what happened. I’ve accepted it.”

Despite the snub, Zak confirmed he would have joined the tour. “God, yeah. They’re the greatest rock and roll band of my generation. Liam’s the best rock and roll singer of my generation.”

Andy Bell, who played bass with Oasis from 1999 to 2009, has officially confirmed his participation in the reunion.

Zak also spoke about his role in The Who, where he’s drummed since 1996. He responded to recent headlines suggesting he got fired after a show at Royal Albert Hall.

He clarified: “I didn’t leave. I suggested we play The Song is Over live—it’s never been done before. We played it, but it went wrong. Four bars off. I won’t name names.”

He explained the issue focused on the drum volume. “They blamed the drums, but they’re electric. You can’t hear them unless you’re wearing my in-ears.”

“Next thing I know, I’m getting sacked,” Zak said. “I posted something about it. Three days later, they gave me my job back. Two days after that, it vanished again.”

He concluded: “Apparently, they retired me. Said I’m too busy. But I’ve got nothing on. Half my band’s in Oasis, the other half’s in Happy Mondays. I’m totally free.”

Source: Manchester Evening News

Photo: Getty