Gallagher Brothers Say Oasis Bassist’s Departure Won’t Kill the Band
The dust had barely settled following Oasis guitarist Paul
“Bonehead” Arthurs’ departure from the band two weeks ago when word
came today that bass player Paul “Guigsy” McGuigan would also be
jumping ship.
McGuigan, one of Oasis’ founding members, announced his plans via a
statement from the band’s label, Creation Records, explaining that
he had “finished his work on the new album and feels now is an
opportune time to leave before the band undertakes touring and
promotional activities later on this year.” The statement went on
to say that McGuigan “would like to thank the fans, as well as
everyone he’s worked with along the way, and wishes Oasis all the
best for the future.”
To allay concerns that the band would be fatally wounded by
McGuigan’s quitting, Noel and Liam Gallagher held a press
conference at the small club where the band had its first public
London gig in ’94; fans and reporters were assured that “the future
of Oasis is secure. The story and the glory will go on.”
“We were a bit shocked at first but we just have to get on with
it,” said Noel. “We’ve got to keep going because I for one don’t
have any money left.”
The Gallaghers told reporters that they had only found out about
McGuigan’s departure through his press statement, but emphasized
that there were no hard feelings on either side and that, like
Arthurs, McGuigan had left so that he could spend more time with
his family.
And while the brothers said they haven’t figured out who will
replace either McGuigan or Arthurs, they are currently hard at work
mixing their new album, which is due out next spring and will be
followed by a nine-month tour, starting in March.