Song Stories: Liam Gallagher: One of Us

Liam Gallagher’s 2019 single “One of Us” was a striking shift from the often bombastic energy of his earlier solo work. Released as the fourth single from his second album 'Why Me? Why Not'., this track presented a more reflective side of the former Oasis frontman. It captured the vulnerability and personal introspection that Gallagher had rarely shown before.

The song see's Liam make an attempt to address his relationships, and friendships. He himself has said "One of Us" is a song about "family" as well as "friendship and a sense of belonging". The song's lyrics reminisce Gallagher's youth and details his broken relationship with someone close to him. While Gallagher hasn't confirmed this, it's been heavily speculated by the media and fans that the person Liam is referring to in the lyrics is his brother Noel, given the two have had a troubled and fractured relationship, which was further amplified when Oasis broke up in 2009

The music video for the song features many references to Oasis and Noel, with the lyric "You said we'd live forever", referencing the Oasis song "Live Forever", further bolstering these rumours. At the time the song was released Liam was hoping that he and Noel's relationship could be salvaged. We now know that the relationship has been salvaged and Noel and Liam are back together. 

Despite the songs lyrical nature, it shows a side to the younger Gallagher that we hadn't seen for a long time. It's chorus and acoustic nature reminds fans of  ‘Stop Crying Your Heart Out’ with a gospel feel later in the song. 

The song became a fan favourite, and is a real highlight of Liam's second solo album. Sadly it was not played live a lot.  While it may not have the same in-your-face anthemic quality as some of his earlier hits, it proves that Gallagher is more than just a rockstar; he is a multifaceted artist, unafraid to explore the quieter, more vulnerable parts of his identity. “One of Us,” Gallagher invites listeners into a space of shared vulnerability, creating a track that is as emotionally resonant as it is sonically compelling. For fans who have followed his journey for decades, “One of Us” offers a deeper connection with the artist, showing that, despite everything, he’s just like us.

It's a bridge between past and present and see's Liam offering an olive branch to those he may have upset in the past. Including Noel.

In my opinion it's Liam's best solo effort, despite it's nostalgic lyrics. It saw him embrace a more vulnerable and heartfelt sound. Moving away from the punky outlook many of his early solo singles had, it also proved that his solo career had staying power. It wasn't going to be a flash in the pan, that relied on the hits of the past. Liam and his self proclaimed 'army of songwriters' could still write a great song. 

Thank you for reading 

Jack