ALAN White has been a huge figure in history and success of Oasis.
Fans have been calling for him to make a comeback to the band as they reunite for a series of concerts in 2025.
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Who is Oasis drummer Alan White?
Alan Victor White, known as Alan White or “Whitey,” is an English drummer born on May 26, 1972.
He is best known for being the drummer of the British rock band Oasis from 1995 to 2004.
Alan played a significant role in the band’s most successful years, contributing to four of their studio albums, a live album and a B-side compilation.
His work with Oasis marked him as the longest-serving drummer in the band’s history.
Before joining Oasis, Alan was involved in various musical projects.
He auditioned for a band called Whirlpool, led by future Oasis member Gem Archer, and later played drums for the London-based band Starclub and Dr. Robert, the lead vocalist of The Blow Monkeys.
Alan also contributed to Idha’s debut solo album Melody Inn, which connected him to future Oasis member Andy Bell.
Alan’s drumming talents were first noticed by Noel Gallagher and he was recommended to Noel by musician Paul Weller.
In April 1995, Alan replaced original Oasis drummer Tony McCarroll.
He made his debut with the band almost immediately, performing on BBC’s Top of the Pops the day after joining.
One of his early major performances was at the Glastonbury Festival in June 1995.
Alan played a role in shaping Oasis’s sound during their peak years.
He drummed on some of the band’s most famous albums, including (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?, Be Here Now, Standing on the Shoulder of Giants and Heathen Chemistry.
Alan married American actress and model Liz Carey in 1997.
The couple met during the filming of the Don’t Look Back in Anger music video.
They divorced in 2004.
He later had a son with a woman named Charlie and moved from London to the countryside in 2013.
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Why did Alan White leave Oasis?
Alan left Oasis in 2004 under somewhat mysterious circumstances, and he was replaced by Zak Starkey – son of Beatles legend Ringo Starr.
But with the news that Oasis will reunite for a 14-date tour next year, Alan’s social media has been flooded with followers begging him to take part.
One of them wrote: “Whitey has stated at least a few times he would be in. I sure hope so. 100% deserved.”
Another fan posted: “Alan, call Liam. Oasis can’t be without your drum beats!”
And a third added: “MATE YOU GOTTA BE THE DRUMMER FOR THE REUNION, YOU’RE THE BEST.”
Alan dropped a huge hint that he might be involved by posting a picture to his social media of his drumkit.
It’s emblazoned with Union Jack flag-themed artwork, which was synonymous with Oasis’s 1990’s “Cool Britannia” era.
He might have a challenge on his hands though – the band’s original drummer Tony McCarroll hinted he’d like to be part of the reunion too.
But speaking in an interview last week, Tony admitted that the brothers haven’t been in touch, but wished them all the best.
He told Mail Online: “I’m happy for Noel and Liam. Really happy for them… And I’m dead happy for the fans more than anything and for those generations who haven’t seen Oasis.”
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Where is Alan White now?
As of August 2024, Alan White is focusing on his personal life and staying out of the public eye.
After leaving Oasis in 2004, Alan did not pursue a high-profile music career, opting instead for a quieter life.
He sometimes posts to his Instagram page, where he shares pictures of the records he’s listening to.
Is Oasis reuniting?
Yes, Oasis are getting back together.
On August 27, 2024, the band confirmed they’d be playing a series of concerts in Summer 2025.
The news was particularly significant given the long-standing feud between Noel and Liam Gallagher.
Tickets went on sale on Saturday, August 31, with the band confirming all the gigs were sold out within hours.
But fans complained about long queuing times and prices being hiked by the time they got through to the purchase page.
There are calls for the band to put more dates on sale due to the huge demand.