Noel Gallagher is a highly acclaimed English musician known for his work as the primary songwriter, lead guitarist, and co-lead vocalist of the band Oasis. Following the band's disbandment in 2009, he formed Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds. Gallagher has achieved remarkable success as a songwriter, penning numerous chart-topping singles and albums in the UK. His impact on British rock music is undeniable, with many prominent artists citing him as a major influence.
May 1967: Birth of Noel Gallagher
Noel Thomas David Gallagher was born in May 1967 in Longsight, Manchester, England.
1972: Gallagher Family Moves to Burnage
Shortly after Liam's birth in 1972, the Gallagher family relocated to Burnage, a suburb of Manchester.
1976: Gallagher Parents Separate
Noel Gallagher's parents legally separated in 1976.
1982: Peggy Gallagher Leaves Thomas Gallagher
In 1982, Peggy Gallagher left her husband, Thomas, becoming a single mother and raising her three sons alone.
1983: Gallagher's Musical Awakening and Gaelic Football Appearance
1983 marked a pivotal year for Gallagher; he found his musical calling after witnessing The Smiths on Top of the Pops. Additionally, he participated in a Gaelic football match with the Manchester team CLG Oisín at Dublin's Croke Park.
May 1988: Meeting Inspiral Carpets' Graham Lambert
Noel Gallagher's path crossed with Graham Lambert, guitarist for Inspiral Carpets, at a Stone Roses concert in May 1988. This encounter led to a friendship and Gallagher's involvement with the band as part of their road crew.
1988: Moving in with Louise Jones
In 1988, Noel Gallagher moved out of his family home to live with Louise Jones, who he considered his soulmate and the inspiration for his song "Slide Away".
1991: Joining The Rain (Later Oasis)
In 1991, Noel Gallagher joined his brother Liam's band, The Rain, after being unimpressed by their performance and seeing their potential. His condition for joining was complete creative control and becoming the sole songwriter. Under his guidance, the band would later evolve into the iconic band, Oasis.
May 1993: Oasis' Performance at King Tut's
In a potentially career-defining moment, Oasis, driven by a shared ambition, embarked on a six-hour journey to Glasgow in May 1993 for a performance at King Tut's. Their aim was to catch the attention of a scout from Creation Records, a gamble that paid off handsomely. Their performance impressed Creation Records founder Alan McGee, paving the way for their future success.
June 1994: Separation from Louise Jones
Noel Gallagher separated from his on-again, off-again girlfriend Louise Jones in June 1994, admitting that he didn't think he'd ever get over it.
August 1994: Release of "Supersonic" and Definitely Maybe
August 1994 saw the release of Oasis' debut album, "Definitely Maybe," following the release of their single, "Supersonic" earlier that year. Despite the album's success, the band faced internal conflicts and challenges during their first American tour, leading to a temporary departure by Noel Gallagher.
1994: Irish Identity
In 1994, Noel Gallagher, the son of Irish immigrants, stated in an interview with the Irish Independent that he hopes people wouldn't see them as "snotty English upstarts" but as "snotty Irish upstarts".
1994: Fight during American tour
In 1994, during Oasis's first American tour, a fight broke out between Noel and Liam Gallagher after a show in Los Angeles. The argument, which involved a chair being thrown, resulted in Noel leaving the tour temporarily.
1994: Meeting Meg Matthews
Noel Gallagher met Meg Matthews in 1994 through her roommate, Rebecca de Ruvo, whom he was dating at the time.
1994: Release of Definitely Maybe
Oasis released their debut album, Definitely Maybe, in 1994. It was a huge critical and commercial success, becoming the fastest-selling debut album in British history at the time.
1995: Release of "Some Might Say" and (What's the Story) Morning Glory?
In 1995, Oasis reached the top of the UK charts for the first time with their single, "Some Might Say." This success was followed by their second album, "(What's the Story) Morning Glory?, "which achieved significant commercial success despite facing initial lukewarm reviews.
1995: Feud with Blur
In a 1995 interview, Noel Gallagher expressed hostility towards Damon Albarn and Alex James of Blur, wishing they would 'catch AIDS and die'. He later apologized, stating that AIDS is no laughing matter. This comment was part of a well-documented feud between Oasis and Blur.
1995: Argument and performance of 'Wonderwall'
In 1995, Noel Gallagher sang 'Wonderwall' on Later... with Jools Holland when Liam failed to turn up. This incident was part of a series of physical altercations and arguments between the Gallagher brothers during their early career.
1995: Release of (What's the Story) Morning Glory?
In 1995, Oasis released their second album, (What's the Story) Morning Glory? It topped the charts in numerous countries and became the second fastest-selling album ever in the UK.
1995: Hit Singles and Charity Contributions
In 1995, Noel Gallagher and Oasis achieved great success with the singles 'Wonderwall' and 'Don't Look Back in Anger', which charted at number two and number one respectively. Additionally, Gallagher contributed to the charity album Help! by playing 'Fade Away' with Johnny Depp and Kate Moss, and performing 'Come Together' with a supergroup including Paul McCartney and Paul Weller.
March 1996: Reunion with Father
In March 1996, Noel and Liam Gallagher reunited with their estranged father during a tour, arranged by the News of the World. The meeting was brief and tense, with Noel later stating that he did not consider the man his father.
June 1996: NME Article on Noel Gallagher's Influence
In June 1996, NME published an article highlighting Noel Gallagher's significant influence in the music industry. The article noted that Gallagher's endorsement could boost a band's mainstream appeal and sales, referring to this phenomenon as 'Noelrock'. This period marked Gallagher's reputation as a powerful tastemaker in music.
August 1996: Knebworth Concerts
In August 1996, Oasis performed two sold-out concerts at Knebworth, playing to over 250,000 fans. These concerts were a significant highlight in the band's career, showcasing their massive popularity at the time.
1996: Songwriting Philosophy
In a 1996 Guitar World interview, Noel Gallagher described his songwriting approach as a "fan who writes songs," acknowledging his musical influences and stating his intentional homages to his favorite artists.
1996: Noel Declines Jam Session with Phil Collins
Noel reportedly declined to jam with Phil Collins when they met at a bar in 1996.
1996: Feud with Blur continues
In 1996, the rivalry between Oasis and Blur continued, with the Gallaghers taunting Blur at the Brit Awards by singing a rendition of 'Parklife' with altered lyrics. The British media played up the feud, which was partly orchestrated to raise the bands' profiles.
1996: MTV Unplugged performance
In 1996, Noel Gallagher provided lead vocals at an MTV Unplugged performance when Liam backed out minutes before the set was due to start. Liam's absence was due to a claimed sore throat, but he was later seen heckling his brother from the balcony.
1996: Controversial statement at the Brit Awards
At the 1996 Brit Awards, Noel Gallagher made a controversial statement while accepting the 'Best Video' award for 'Wonderwall,' suggesting that Michael Hutchence, who presented the award, was a has-been. This comment deeply affected Hutchence.
June 1997: Marriage to Meg Matthews
Noel Gallagher married Meg Matthews in Las Vegas in June 1997, after leaving his previous girlfriend, Rebecca de Ruvo, for Mathews.
1997: Be Here Now Release and Criticism
In 1997, Oasis released their album 'Be Here Now', written entirely by Noel Gallagher. Despite initial success, the album faced long-term criticism for being overly indulgent, which Gallagher attributed to the band's drug use and indifference.
1997: Visit to Tony Blair and Political Views
Noel visited Prime Minister Tony Blair in 1997. In an interview that year, he described his political views, expressing support for the Labour Party.
1997: Performance at Tibetan Freedom Concert
Oasis performed at the Tibetan Freedom Concert in New York City in 1997.
1997: Release of Be Here Now
Oasis released their third studio album, Be Here Now, in 1997, setting a record for the fastest-selling album in UK chart history.
1997: 10 Downing Street Party Criticism
In 1997, Noel Gallagher faced criticism for attending a media party at 10 Downing Street hosted by Prime Minister Tony Blair. The event conflicted with his 'working class hero' image, drawing negative reactions from fans and peers.
June 1998: Quitting Drugs
On 5 June 1998, Noel Gallagher decided to stop using illicit drugs. He had been experiencing drug-induced panic attacks for about a year and wanted to put an end to it for his well-being.
1998: Cameo Appearance
Noel Gallagher made a cameo appearance as himself in an episode of The Young Person's Guide to Becoming a Rock Star in 1998.
1999: Ibiza Home Purchase
Noel Gallagher bought a home in Ibiza from Mike Oldfield in 1999 for £2.5 million.
1999: Gallagher Voted Most Overrated Guitarist
In 1999, Noel Gallagher was voted the most overrated guitarist of the last millennium in a poll. Despite the negative connotation, Gallagher has stated he enjoyed receiving the accolade.
1999: Band Member Departures
In 1999, Oasis saw the departure of rhythm guitarist Paul 'Bonehead' Arthurs and bassist Paul McGuigan. The fourth studio album 'Standing on the Shoulder of Giants' was recorded primarily by the Gallaghers and drummer Alan White, with Noel playing all guitar parts.
January 2000: Birth of Anaïs Gallagher
Noel Gallagher's daughter, Anaïs Gallagher, was born on 27 January 2000.
June 2000: Meeting Sara MacDonald
Noel Gallagher met Scottish publicist Sara MacDonald in June 2000 at Ibiza nightclub Space.
July 2000: Fight in Barcelona
In July 2000, Noel Gallagher headbutted his brother Liam in Barcelona after a crude remark about Noel's then-wife. This incident led Noel to declare he was quitting overseas touring, although he returned for an Oasis gig in Dublin where the brothers reconciled on stage.
2000: Release of 'Standing on the Shoulder of Giants'
In 2000, Oasis released the album 'Standing on the Shoulder of Giants', which included the song 'Gas Panic!' inspired by Noel Gallagher's experiences with drug-induced panic attacks.
January 2001: Divorce from Meg Matthews
Noel Gallagher and Meg Mathews divorced in January 2001 due to Gallagher's adultery with Sara MacDonald. However, Gallagher later claimed he was never unfaithful and only claimed adultery to expedite the divorce.
2001: Formation of Sour Mash Records
In 2001, Noel Gallagher founded his own label, Sour Mash Records, which released music by various artists. This move marked Gallagher's debut as a producer, working with bands like Proud Mary.
2001: Reflection on Drug Use
In 2001, Noel Gallagher reflected on his past drug use, stating that he had experienced panic attacks and decided to quit drugs in 1998. He admitted to having little memory of the period from 1993 to 1998.
2001: Estimated Net Worth
In 2001, Noel Gallagher's estimated personal fortune was reported to be £25 million.
2002: Gallagher Ranked Ninth Most Overrated Guitarist
In 2002, Noel Gallagher was ranked the ninth-most-overrated guitarist ever in a listener survey.
2003: Songwriting Credits for Girls Aloud's Single
In 2003, Noel Gallagher received songwriting credits for Girls Aloud's single 'Life Got Cold' due to its guitar riff being similar to Oasis's 'Wonderwall'.
2004: Gallagher Features on Ricky Gervais Track
In 2004, Gallagher contributed backing vocals to Ricky Gervais's song "Free Love Freeway."
2005: Noel Gallagher comments on his lyrics
In 2005, Noel Gallagher admitted that he sometimes does not understand his own lyrics, citing 'Don't Look Back in Anger' as an example. He also revealed that he is dyslexic, which slows down his songwriting process and that he cannot read or write music notation.
2005: Noel Gallagher's evolving role in Oasis
In 2005, Noel Gallagher's role as a chief songwriter for Oasis evolved, allowing more lyrical input from other band members. Notably, the song 'The Importance of Being Idle' from the album 'Don't Believe the Truth' topped the UK charts and received critical acclaim.
2005: Zak Starkey replaces Alan White
In 2005, Zak Starkey, son of Beatles drummer Ringo Starr, replaced long-time Oasis drummer Alan White during the recording sessions for 'Don't Believe the Truth'. Noel Gallagher commented on the band's drummer troubles, asserting that he is the best drummer in the group.
2005: Release of Don't Believe the Truth
In 2005, amidst declining Britpop popularity, Oasis released Don't Believe the Truth, an album considered one of their best in years.
2005: Negative Remarks About Phil Collins and UK Politics
Noel's history of publicly criticizing Phil Collins continued in 2005 when he expressed concern over the possibility of Collins returning to live in the UK if the Conservative Party won the election.
2006: Stance on Religion
In 2006, Noel Gallagher stated that he doesn't believe in God or a guiding force.
September 2007: Birth of Donovan Rory MacDonald Gallagher
Donovan Rory MacDonald Gallagher, son of Noel Gallagher and Sara MacDonald, was born on 22 September 2007.
2007: Gallagher's Performance Similar to 2007
Gallagher's 2010 Royal Albert Hall performances were noted to be similar to a set he played at the same venue in 2007.
2007: Respect for Damon Albarn
In 2007, Noel Gallagher expressed respect for Damon Albarn in an NME interview, despite their past feud. He clarified that his indifference should not be mistaken for hostility.
2007: Comments on Politics
Noel Gallagher gave an interview on his views about politics in 2007.
2008: Criticism of Jay-Z's Glastonbury Performance
In 2008, Noel sparked controversy by criticizing the Glastonbury Festival for booking Jay-Z as a headliner, claiming a hip-hop act was unsuitable for the traditionally rock-centric festival. This ignited a debate about genre and tradition at the festival.
2008: Comments on Knife Crime and Social Issues
In 2008, Noel voiced his concerns about rising knife crime rates in the UK, attributing it to societal changes and drawing a link to the Thatcher era.
2008: Ibiza Home Sale
Noel Gallagher sold his Ibiza home in 2008, reportedly because he couldn't stand having James Blunt as a neighbor and disliking his music.
2008: Support for Barack Obama
Noel publicly supported Barack Obama during the 2008 US Presidential election.
2008: Release of Dig Out Your Soul
Oasis' final album before their split, Dig Out Your Soul, was released in 2008. Like their previous album, it was also praised as one of their best in recent years.
March 2009: Release of 'The Dreams We Have as Children'
In March 2009, The Times and iTunes released 'The Dreams We Have as Children', featuring live recordings from Noel Gallagher's semi-acoustic performance at the Royal Albert Hall on 27 March 2007, which was in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust.
April 2009: Gallagher Co-Hosts Radio Show with Russell Brand
In April 2009, Gallagher teamed up with Russell Brand to present a one-off radio show on talkSPORT.
August 2009: Noel Gallagher Quits Oasis
On 28 August 2009, Noel Gallagher announced his departure from Oasis following a fight with his brother Liam. He posted the announcement on the band's website, marking the end of his tenure with the band.
August 2009: Formation of Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds
Following his departure from Oasis in August 2009, Noel Gallagher formed his own band, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds, and has since released four studio albums.
2009: Departure from Oasis
In 2009, escalating tensions between Noel and Liam Gallagher culminated in the cancellation of an Oasis concert in Paris on August 28th. Noel publicly announced his departure from the band, citing "verbal and violent intimidation" and lack of support from the band and management.
2009: Combined Net Worth with Liam Gallagher
The Sunday Times Rich List estimated Noel and Liam Gallagher's combined personal fortune at £52 million in 2009.
2009: Departure from Oasis
In 2009, Noel Gallagher announced his departure from the band Oasis, after a disagreement with his brother Liam.
2009: Oasis Tour of China Cancelled
Oasis' planned tour of China was cancelled in 2009, reportedly due to their previous performance at the Tibetan Freedom Concert.
2009: Uncertainty About Religious Beliefs
In 2009, Noel Gallagher expressed uncertainty about his religious beliefs.
February 2010: Gallagher Announces First Solo Concerts
In February 2010, Gallagher announced his first solo concerts, scheduled for March 2010 at London's Royal Albert Hall.
March 2010: Gallagher Performs at Royal Albert Hall
On March 25th and 26th, 2010, Gallagher played two mostly acoustic sets at London's Royal Albert Hall, marking his first solo concerts since Oasis.
April 2010: Gallagher Joins Paul Weller Onstage
On April 21st, 2010, Gallagher joined Paul Weller onstage in London, playing "Mucky Fingers" and "Echoes Round the Sun".
August 2010: Gallagher to Return to Studio, Denies Rumors
In August 2010, Gallagher confirmed he would be recording drums for Paul Weller and denied rumors about being Russell Brand's best man.
October 2010: Birth of Sonny Patrick MacDonald Gallagher
Sonny Patrick MacDonald Gallagher, son of Noel Gallagher and Sara MacDonald, was born on 1 October 2010.
November 2010: Gallagher Collaborates with Miles Kane
On November 24, 2010, Miles Kane revealed that Gallagher sang on his album 'My Fantasy' and would appear on Gallagher's upcoming album.
2010: Protest Vote in the UK General Election
Noel revealed that he cast a protest vote in the 2010 UK general election.
February 2011: Gallagher Denies Liam's Rumours About Solo Album
On February 10, 2011, Gallagher refuted rumors spread by Liam about taking material from Oasis for his solo album, stating he hadn't even begun recording.
June 2011: Marriage to Sara MacDonald
Noel Gallagher and Sara MacDonald were married in a private ceremony at the Lime Wood Hotel in New Forest National Park on 18 June 2011.
July 2011: Gallagher Releases Debut Single and Video
In July 2011, Gallagher released a trailer and the music video for "The Death of You and Me," his debut single from 'Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds.'
August 2011: Comments on the 2011 England Riots
During the 2011 England riots, Noel criticized the rioters' motivations, contrasting them with those protesting for freedom in other parts of the world. He also suggested that violent media contributed to social problems.
September 2011: Gallagher and Matt Morgan Guest Host on BBC Radio 2
Gallagher, along with his longtime friend Matt Morgan, filled in as guest hosts for Dermot O'Leary on his BBC Radio 2 show on September 10, 2011.
October 2011: Gallagher Releases Debut Solo Album and Begins Touring
On October 17, 2011, Gallagher released his self-titled debut album, 'Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds,' and commenced touring in Dublin on October 23, 2011.
2011: Manchester City F.C. Supporter
Noel Gallagher is a lifelong Manchester City F.C. supporter and admitted to crying tears of joy when they won the 2011–12 Premier League title.
2011: Gallagher's Greatest Hits Album Spans a Decade
Gallagher's 2021 greatest hits album encompasses music released between 2011 and 2021.
February 2012: Reflections on Thatcher Era and Artistic Expression
In February 2012, Noel suggested that the UK under Margaret Thatcher's leadership, while politically restrictive, fostered a more creative environment for art and music.
2012: Collaboration Album Shelved
Gallagher had planned a collaborative album with Amorphous Androgynous, originally slated for release in 2012, but it was later indefinitely shelved.
2012: Comments on Oasis Reunion and Liam's Band
In 2012, Noel Gallagher expressed his disinterest in an Oasis reunion, despite acknowledging its potential appeal. He also referred to Liam's band, Beady Eye, as an "Oasis tribute band".
2012: Manchester City Kit Unveiling
Noel Gallagher participated in the unveiling of Umbro-sponsored football kits with Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany for the 2012–13 season.
2012: Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band Cover
Noel Gallagher was chosen by artist Peter Blake to appear in a new version of the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's Lonely Hearts Club Band album cover in 2012, celebrating British cultural figures.
March 2013: Gallagher Hosts Charity Radio Show for Teenage Cancer Trust
In March 2013, Gallagher joined forces with Brand, Morgan, and Mr Gee to host a one-off radio show on XFM in support of Teenage Cancer Trust.
March 2013: Performance at Teenage Cancer Trust
On March 23, 2013, Noel Gallagher performed the Blur hit 'Tender' with Damon Albarn, Graham Coxon, and Paul Weller at the Teenage Cancer Trust. This performance indicated a cooling of the long-standing feud between Gallagher and Albarn.
2014: Damon Albarn Hints at Collaboration with Gallagher
During a 2014 interview, Damon Albarn suggested a potential collaborative project with Gallagher, hinting at a thawing in their relationship after years of rivalry between Blur and Oasis.
February 2015: Disillusionment with Modern Politicians
In a February 2015 interview, Noel expressed his disappointment with contemporary politicians' attempts to appear relatable, contrasting them with Margaret Thatcher's more direct approach.
March 2015: Gallagher Considers Retirement from Live Shows
In March 2015, Gallagher expressed thoughts about retiring from live performances within the next 10 years, citing the challenges of touring at his age.
March 2015: Gallagher Releases Second Album
On March 2nd, 2015, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds released their second studio album, 'Chasing Yesterday.'
June 2015: Gallagher Confirms Third Album
In June 2015, Gallagher confirmed that work was underway on a third High Flying Birds album.
2015: Gallagher's Political Commentary on UK Leaders
In 2015, Noel Gallagher shared his views on the UK political landscape, criticizing prominent figures like David Cameron and Ed Miliband. He expressed his disillusionment with contemporary leadership in the lead-up to the general election.
February 2016: Gallagher and Morgan Host Absolute Radio Show
Gallagher and Morgan reunited in February 2016 to host a special one-off show for Absolute Radio.
2016: Gallagher's Stance on Brexit
Noel Gallagher revealed in 2016 that he abstained from voting in the Brexit referendum, expressing his belief that the decision should not have been left to the public. Despite initially supporting the UK remaining in the EU, he emphasized the importance of accepting the outcome and moving forward.
2016: Gallagher's Perspective on Jeremy Corbyn and the Labour Party
In 2016, while maintaining his left-leaning stance, Gallagher voiced his opposition to Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn, drawing parallels to previous leadership. He critiqued both Conservative and Labour approaches to social and economic issues.
2016: Gallagher Co-Writes for The Monkees
Gallagher collaborated with Paul Weller in 2016 to co-write "Birth of an Accidental Hipster" for The Monkees.
2016: Phil Collins' Response to Criticism in Autobiography
In his 2016 autobiography, Phil Collins addressed Noel's criticisms, further fueling their public feud.
March 2017: Gallagher Provides Backing Vocals for Gorillaz Track
In March 2017, Gorillaz, the animated band led by Damon Albarn, released "We Got the Power," a track featuring backing vocals from Gallagher, further solidifying their reconciliation.
September 2017: Gallagher Headlines Manchester Benefit Concert
Gallagher and his band headlined "We Are Manchester" on September 9, 2017, a benefit concert commemorating the reopening of Manchester Arena after a terrorist attack.
November 2017: Gallagher Releases Third Album, 'Who Built the Moon?'
On November 27, 2017, Gallagher released 'Who Built the Moon?', his third studio album with the High Flying Birds.
December 2017: Alleged Truce with Liam
Liam Gallagher claimed a "truce" with Noel in December 2017.
2017: Reflection on songwriting
By 2017, Noel Gallagher reflected on his earlier statement about not understanding his own lyrics, using 'Champagne Supernova' as an example. He reiterated that while he may not know what the lyrics mean, their significance is validated by the audience's connection to the songs.
2017: Reaffirmation of Atheism
Noel Gallagher reaffirmed his atheism in 2017 during a GQ "Actually Me" segment.
February 2018: Liam Admits Truce Was "In His Head"
In February 2018, Liam admitted the truce was not real.
May 2019: Gallagher Releases "Black Star Dancing"
On May 2, 2019, Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds released "Black Star Dancing," the title track from their upcoming EP.
June 2019: Gallagher Releases 'Black Star Dancing' EP
Gallagher's band released the 'Black Star Dancing' EP on June 14, 2019.
August 2019: Gallagher Releases "This Is The Place"
On August 5, 2019, Gallagher's band released "This Is The Place," the title track of their second EP of the year.
September 2019: Gallagher Releases 'This Is The Place' EP and Tours with Smashing Pumpkins
On September 27, 2019, Gallagher's band released the 'This Is The Place' EP. That same month, Gallagher toured the United States with the Smashing Pumpkins.
October 2019: Gallagher Appears on Hot Ones
In October 2019, Gallagher made an appearance on the popular YouTube series 'Hot Ones,' hosted by Sean Evans.
November 2019: Gallagher Releases "Wandering Star"
On November 14, 2019, Gallagher released the single "Wandering Star," promoting his upcoming studio EP, 'Blue Moon Rising.'
2019: Noel Addresses Reunion Rumors
Noel dismissed online rumors about an Oasis reunion, attributing them to Liam.
2019: Friendship with Damon Albarn
In 2019, Noel Gallagher confirmed in an interview with Dermot O'Leary on BBC Two that he and Damon Albarn had become friends, marking the end of a long-standing feud.
March 2020: Gallagher Releases 'Blue Moon Rising' EP
On March 6, 2020, Gallagher released 'Blue Moon Rising,' an EP featuring various mixes of the title track, including reflex and 7" versions.
2020: Gallagher's Controversial Stance on Face Masks
In 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Gallagher sparked controversy by publicly refusing to wear a face mask. He defended his choice by stating that he would take personal responsibility for any consequences, even if it meant contracting the virus.
2020: Recount of Hospitalization in Detroit
In a 2020 interview, Noel Gallagher recounted a hospitalization experience in Detroit due to a drug overdose. The doctors had difficulty understanding his accent, adding to the distressing situation.
April 2021: Gallagher Announces Greatest Hits Album, Releases "We're On Our Way Now"
Gallagher announced 'Back the Way We Came: Vol. 1 (2011–2021),' his band's first greatest hits album, on April 29, 2021, and released "We're On Our Way Now" as a single.
May 2021: Gallagher Guest Hosts BBC Radio 2's 'Pick of the Pops'
On May 29, 2021, Gallagher stepped in for Paul Gambaccini as the guest host on 'Pick of the Pops,' a long-running program on BBC Radio 2.
June 2021: Gallagher Releases Greatest Hits Album, Achieves 12th UK No. 1 Album
Released on June 11, 2021, 'Back the Way We Came: Vol. 1 (2011–2021)' marked Gallagher's 12th UK No. 1 album. Gallagher also revealed that the album's cover was inspired by the 'Best of Bee Gees' album.
August 2021: The Radio X Residency
In August 2021, Noel Gallagher presented The Radio X Residency with Morgan every Sunday evening throughout the month on Radio X.
2021: Gallagher's Comments on the Royal Family
In 2021, Gallagher weighed in on the controversies surrounding the British Royal Family, expressing sympathy for Prince William while criticizing Prince Harry and Meghan Markle for their public allegations. He drew a parallel between the situation and his own strained relationship with his brother Liam, siding with William in the family dispute.
January 2023: Gallagher Announces Fourth Studio Album, 'Council Skies'
In January 2023, Gallagher announced 'Council Skies,' his fourth studio album with the High Flying Birds, set for release on June 2nd.
January 2023: Divorce from Sara MacDonald
Noel Gallagher and Sara MacDonald announced their divorce in January 2023 after 11 years of marriage. Gallagher attributed the separation to reaching a crossroads in life, which is not uncommon for couples in long-term relationships during their 50s.
February 2023: Gallagher Announces North American Tour with Garbage
February 2023 saw the announcement of a 24-date North American co-headline tour by the High Flying Birds and Garbage, starting on June 2nd in Auburn, WA, and concluding on July 15th in Boston.
March 2023: Gallagher Announces UK Arena Tour
In March 2023, Gallagher announced an autumn UK arena tour, with performances scheduled in cities like Hull, London, Birmingham, Cardiff, Leeds, Glasgow, and Liverpool.
January 2024: Acoustic Album Plans
Noel Gallagher shared plans to record a new, entirely acoustic album in January 2024, calling it a gift "for the fans", but later scrapped the idea.
2024: Collaboration with The Black Keys
In 2024, Noel Gallagher co-wrote three tracks with The Black Keys for their album Ohio Players, also providing backing vocals and guitar.