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"Wonderwall"
Single by Oasis
from the album (What's the Story) Morning Glory?
B-side
Released30 October 1995 (1995-10-30)
RecordedMay 1995
StudioRockfield (Rockfield, Wales)
Genre
Length
  • 4:19 (album version)
  • 3:48 (radio edit)
LabelCreation
SongwriterNoel Gallagher
Producers
Oasis singles chronology
"Morning Glory"
(1995)
"Wonderwall"
(1995)
"Don't Look Back in Anger"
(1996)
Music video
"Wonderwall" on YouTube
(What's the Story) Morning Glory? track listing

"Wonderwall" is a song by English rock band Oasis, released by Creation Records on 30 October 1995 as the fourth single from the band's second studio album (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. Described by lead guitarist and chief songwriter Noel Gallagher, who wrote the song and co-produced it with Owen Morris, as being about "an imaginary friend who's gonna come and save you from yourself",[6] "Wonderwall" reached the top ten in 15 countries; it topped the charts in Australia and New Zealand, peaked at No. 2 on both the UK Singles Chart and the Irish Singles Chart, and reached the top 10 in Canada and the United States, reaching No. 5 and No. 8, respectively, thus becoming the band's sole top-40 entry on the latter country's main Billboard Hot 100 chart. The single was certified octuple platinum by the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) and 12-times platinum by the Australian Recording Industry Association (ARIA). Its music video, directed by Nigel Dick, won British Video of the Year at the 1996 Brit Awards.

"Wonderwall" remains one of the band's most popular songs. In Australia, it was voted No. 1 on the alternative music radio station Triple J's Hottest 100 of 1995 and "20 Years of the Hottest 100" in 2013.[7][8] Many artists have also covered the song, such as Ryan Adams, Cat Power, and Brad Mehldau.[9] In October 2020, it became the first song from the 1990s to reach one billion streams on Spotify.[10] As of October 2025, 'Wonderwall' placed at number 82 in list of Spotify streaming records.

Production history

[edit]

The song was originally titled "Wishing Stone". Gallagher told NME in 1996 that "Wonderwall" was written for Meg Mathews, his then-girlfriend and later wife.[11][12] However, after Gallagher and Mathews divorced in 2001,[13] he said the song was not about her: "The meaning of that song was taken away from me by the media who jumped on it, and how do you tell your Mrs it's not about her once she's read it is? It's a song about an imaginary friend who's gonna come and save you from yourself."[6] The song's final title was inspired by George Harrison's solo album Wonderwall Music.[14]

The song was recorded at Rockfield Studios in Wales, during a two-week recording of the Morning Glory album in May 1995. Morris produced the song in a half-day along with Gallagher, using a technique known as "brickwalling" to intensify the sound of the song.[4] Liam Gallagher served as lead singer on the song after Noel had given him a choice between "Wonderwall" and "Don't Look Back in Anger", another single from the album, with Noel singing lead vocals on the latter.[12] All of the band's members except bassist Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan contributed to the recording, with Noel playing bass instead of McGuigan. This decision displeased Liam, who told Morris, "That's not Oasis."[15]

"Wonderwall" is written in the key of F minor and is set in common time with a moderate dance groove. Liam Gallagher's voice ranges from an E3 to an F4 in the song.[16]

Live performances

[edit]

Noel Gallagher debuted the song on UK television backstage at Glastonbury, and it was broadcast on Channel 4 on 24 June 1995. The song was not performed by the band during their headline performance the night before. The song went on to be regularly played on the (What's the Story) Morning Glory? Tour where it was typically played and sung solo by Noel acoustically. On occasions however (including the Maine Road and Knebworth gigs) it was played by the full band acoustically with Liam on vocals. The song was also regularly played on both the Be Here Now Tour and Standing on the Shoulder of Giants Tour, performances on these tours featured the full band on electric guitars with Liam on vocals.

For the Heathen Chemistry Tour, Noel changed the arrangement of his live performances of the song to a style he admitted was heavily influenced by Ryan Adams' cover. For the Don't Believe the Truth Tour, the original arrangement was used for live performances by the full band with electric guitars and Liam on vocals. During the 2008 tour, the band returned to performing the song in a semi-acoustic form, in an arrangement closely resembling the album version. This song was also performed during the 2012 Summer Olympics closing ceremony by Liam Gallagher and his post Oasis band Beady Eye.

Since Oasis split up, both Noel and Liam have continued to play the song as part of Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds and Liam's solo career, respectively. Both have often varied the presentation of the song, sometimes being performed in stripped down acoustic versions, whilst other times more full band arrangements have been performed. It was also played on their reunion tour in 2025.[17]

Critical reception

[edit]

Steve Baltin from Cash Box named "Wonderwall" Pick of the Week, describing the song as "a perfect example of melodic pop." He added, "Following the more uptempo riff of "Morning Glory", this single will remind listeners of the anthemic single "Live Forever", a track that generated massive airplay on multiple formats last year. Look for the same results for this lovely near ballad. A simple, sweet song, it shows why Oasis is rapidly becoming one of music's great singles bands."[18] Kevin Courtney from Irish Times declared it as a "genuine Oasis gem", "with its aching string arrangements and evocative vocals".[19] Michael Bonner from Melody Maker named it Single of the Week, praising it as "a mesmeric declaration of love — haunting, beautiful and effortlessly simple — and, unless you've been locked in a coal cellar for the last two months, you should know it forwards, backwards and sideways by now."[20] Another Melody Maker editor, David Stubbs, said, "'Wonderwall', with its explicit George Harrison reference, doesn't bother to conceal another nod at The Beatles, but the real problem here is that Liam doesn't seem capable of modulating his voice to suit the pensively orchestrated backdrop — a bit of a subtlety deficiency."[21]

Pan-European magazine Music & Media wrote, "A swirling rock song that slowly builds to epic proportions. Nicely chiming acoustic guitars and psyched-up strings support Liam Gallagher's trademark declamatory and plaintive vocals. Not the easiest song for EHR, but a sure grower."[22] John Robinson from NME commented, "'Wonderwall' instead turns out to be the best example of Liam's indispensability to Noel as we are plunged into the depths of a doomed urban romance. Fires have gone out, wills to live have departed, yet we still witness Liam questioning whether Maybe you could be the one to save me. And yet the entirely twisted delivery turns it from a slightly sappy idea into a fantastically bleak song, adding an all-consuming anger to the sense of desperation."[23] In a separate review, Robinson felt it "is one of Oasis' best records because it manages to be immensely robust while still being one of Noel's most lyrically personal songs".[24] Andrew Harrison from Select wrote, "'Wonderwall' is a near acoustic song that wears many signs of its maturity, but heavily. There is a (good) attempt to resonate personal failure with the redemptive power of The Beatles ("Backbeat, the word is on the street/That the fire in your eyes is out"). Liam goes flat once too often on the chorus."[25] Leesa Daniels from Smash Hits gave it a top score of five out of five and named it "Oasis' version of a love song." She added, "Absolutely beautiful."[26] Another Smash Hits editor, Mark Frith, praised it as a highlight of the album, "mid-paced, brilliantly sung by Liam and, if it wasn't for Queen ['Heaven for Everyone'], a No. 1 hit!"[27]

Music video

[edit]

The original music video to the song conceived by Johanna Bautista was filmed by British music video and film director Nigel Dick at Unit 217B in Woolwich, London, on 30 September 1995.[28] The filming of the promotional video took place during the brief period when bassist Guigsy quit the band due to nervous exhaustion, and was replaced by Scott McLeod, who appears in the video along with the four other members of the band.[29] The song won British Video of the Year at the 1996 Brit Awards.

A second video depicts the band sitting down throughout the video with some getting up and leaving before returning. The video ends with Noel, Alan White and Scott McLeod leaving their seats, leaving Liam and Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs in their seats.

Cover art

[edit]

The sleeve artwork was inspired by the paintings of the Belgian surrealist René Magritte, and was shot on Primrose Hill in London by Michael Spencer Jones. The hand holding the frame is that of art director Brian Cannon. The original idea was to have Liam in the frame before Noel vetoed that idea whilst the shoot was taking place.[30] Instead, a female figure was deemed necessary, so Creation Records employee Anita Heryet was asked to stand in as cover star for the shot.[31]

Chart and sales performance

[edit]

"Wonderwall" reached the No. 2 spot in both Ireland and the United Kingdom in October and November 1995.[32][33] It finished at No. 10 on the year-end chart for 1995[34] and at No. 26 on the 1990s decade-end in the UK.[citation needed] The track has sold and streamed 4.8 million units in the UK as of November 2024, certifying the song octuple platinum and making it Oasis' biggest-selling song in their homeland.[35][36] In August 2024, in light of the announcement of the band's reunion tour, "Wonderwall" re-entered at number 17 on the UK Singles Chart. On 5 September 2025, the song spent its 100th week on the UK chart.[33]

In the United States, the song peaked at No. 1 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart for a then-unprecedented ten weeks and reached No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in March 1996, becoming their only top-10 hit on the latter chart.[37][38] "Wonderwall" also proved to be a major hit in Australia and New Zealand, claiming the No. 1 spot in both countries.[39][40] In Canada, the song reached No. 5 on the RPM 100 chart and topped the RPM Alternative 30 ranking.[41][42]

Awards and accolades

[edit]
  • The American magazine The Village Voice's Pazz & Jop critics' poll ranked "Wonderwall" at No. 11 on its annual year-end poll in 1995. The following year, "Wonderwall" was ranked at No. 4, tied with Pulp's "Common People".[43][44]
  • In the Grammy Awards of 1997, the band received a nomination for Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group, and Noel Gallagher picked up an additional nomination for Best Rock Song, winning neither.[45]
  • In May 2005, "Wonderwall" was voted the best British song of all time, in a poll of over 8,500 listeners conducted by Virgin Radio.[46]
  • In August 2006, "Wonderwall" was named the second-greatest song of all time in a poll conducted by Q Magazine, finishing behind another Oasis song, "Live Forever".[47]
  • In 2006, U2's guitarist The Edge named "Wonderwall" one of the songs he most wishes he'd written.[48]
  • In May 2007, NME magazine placed "Wonderwall" at No. 27 on its list of the 50 Greatest Indie Anthems Ever.[49]
  • On 28 June 2007, NME stated that Alex James, bassist of Blur, who had been long-standing rivals with Oasis, said: "Wish I'd written it. He's got a great voice, Liam (Gallagher)".[50]
  • In July 2009, "Wonderwall" was voted at No. 12 in the Hottest 100 of all time countdown poll, conducted by Australian radio station Triple J. More than half a million votes were cast.[51]
  • In February 2014, the song was voted No. 36 of The 500 greatest songs of all time, according to NME.[52]
  • In March 2016, "Wonderwall" was voted the greatest British song of all time by Radio X listeners.[53]
  • In September 2021, Rolling Stone placed the song at No. 95 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.[54]

Track listings

[edit]

All tracks are written by Noel Gallagher, except where noted.

UK single
No.TitleLength
1."Wonderwall"4:18
2."Round Are Way"5:42
3."The Swamp Song"4:19
4."The Masterplan"5:23
Total length:19:52
US single
No.TitleLength
1."Wonderwall"4:14
2."Round Are Way"5:41
3."Talk Tonight"4:11
4."Rockin' Chair"4:33
5."I Am the Walrus (Live Glasgow Cathouse June 1994)" (Written by Lennon–McCartney)8:14
Total length:26:53

Personnel

[edit]

Oasis

Additional performer

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
Australia (ARIA)[130] 12× Platinum 840,000
Denmark (IFPI Danmark)[131] Gold 45,000
Germany (BVMI)[132] 2× Platinum 1,000,000
Italy (FIMI)[133]
sales since 2009
4× Platinum 280,000
Mexico (AMPROFON)[134] Gold 30,000*
New Zealand (RMNZ)[135] 6× Platinum 180,000
Norway (IFPI Norway)[136] Gold  
Portugal (AFP)[137] 5× Platinum 50,000
Spain (PROMUSICAE)[138] 4× Platinum 240,000
United Kingdom (BPI)[35] 8× Platinum 4,800,000
United States (RIAA)[139] Gold 500,000*

* Sales figures based on certification alone.
Sales+streaming figures based on certification alone.

Release history

[edit]
Region Date Format(s) Label(s) Ref(s).
United Kingdom 30 October 1995
  • 7-inch vinyl
  • CD
  • cassette
Creation [140][141]
6 November 1995 12-inch vinyl [142]
United States 14 November 1995 Contemporary hit radio Epic [143]
Japan 23 November 1995 CD [144]

The Mike Flowers Pops version

[edit]
"Wonderwall"
Single by the Mike Flowers Pops
from the album A Groovy Place
B-side
  • "Son of God"
  • "Theme from Memory Man"
Released18 December 1995 (1995-12-18)[145]
GenreEasy listening
Length2:40
LabelLondon
SongwriterNoel Gallagher
ProducersAdrian Johnston
Mike Roberts
The Mike Flowers Pops singles chronology
"Wonderwall"
(1995)
"Light My Fire" / "Please Release Me"
(1996)
Music video
"Wonderwall" on YouTube

British band the Mike Flowers Pops released an easy listening version of "Wonderwall" that reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart—just as the Oasis original had done two months earlier—during Christmas 1995. On New Year's Day 1996, it earned a silver certification from the British Phonographic Industry (BPI) for shipments exceeding 200,000 copies. This cover also peaked within the top 10 of the charts in Denmark, Ireland and Sweden.

Noel Gallagher mentioned that when BBC Radio 1 premiered the song, they jokingly claimed that they had found "the original version of Wonderwall". Gallagher, who had been in America at the time, was surprised to be asked by one of his record company's executives if he had actually written the song.[146]

Charts

[edit]

Certifications

[edit]
Region Certification Certified units/sales
United Kingdom (BPI)[159] Silver 200,000^

^ Shipments figures based on certification alone.

Bring Me the Horizon version

[edit]
"Wonderwall"
Single by Bring Me the Horizon
from the album Spotify Singles
Released30 January 2025 (2025-01-30)
Length4:00
Label
SongwriterNoel Gallagher
Producers
Bring Me the Horizon singles chronology
"Top 10 Statues That Cried Blood"
(2024)
"Wonderwall"
(2025)
Music video
"Wonderwall" on YouTube

English rock band Bring Me the Horizon released a cover of "Wonderwall" as part of the Spotify Singles series, putting their own metal twist on the song.[160][161] Frontman Liam Gallagher responded to the cover positively, calling it "absolutely incredible".[162][163][164] When interviewed at the BRIT Awards, the band responded to Gallagher's positive reception to their rendition, stating they were "surprised" and expected him to "slag it off". They also revealed that they wanted to cover "Wonderwall" because it was one of Oli Sykes' favourite songs.[165] All royalties generated from the song's streams were donated to the Teenage Cancer Trust.[166]

It peaked at number 30 on the UK Rock & Metal Singles Chart and number 11 on the US Hot Hard Rock Songs chart.[167][168]

Track listing

[edit]
Spotify Singles[169]
No.TitleWriter(s)Length
1."Wonderwall - Spotify Singles"Noel Gallagher3:43
2."Youtopia - Spotify Singles" (Earthcore remix) 
Total length:7:40

Lyric Video

[edit]

A lyric video was released alongside the song, exclusively to Spotify Premium users. It was later published to YouTube, on February 13, 2025.[170]

Charts

[edit]
Chart performance for "Wonderwall"
Chart (2025) Peak
position
UK Rock & Metal (OCC)[171] 30
US Hot Hard Rock Songs (Billboard)[172] 11

Other cover versions

[edit]

Ryan Adams' version, first performed in 2001, and later released in 2003 on Love Is Hell pt. 1 EP, was well received by Noel Gallagher.[173] It was featured in The O.C. episode "The Heartbreak". It was featured in the final scenes of the Smallville Season 3 episode "Velocity" and the first season of the Israeli documentary series Couchsurfers. In an interview with Spin, Gallagher said "I think Ryan Adams is the only person who ever got that song right."[173]

Paul Anka covered the song on his swing album Rock Swings, released in 2005 and was used as figure skater Paul Fentz's backing track during his 2018 Winter Olympics performance in Pyeongchang, South Korea.[174] This version sparked an internet meme at the time.[175]

American rapper Jay-Z often has his crowds sing "Wonderwall" after his song "Jockin' Jay-Z",[176] which includes a reference to Noel Gallagher's criticism of the rapper's involvement in the typically rock-centric Glastonbury Festival in 2008. It launched a war of words between Jay Z and Oasis, with Oasis' rhythm guitarist Gem Archer describing Jay Z's actions as akin to an "eight-year-old girl".[177] After Oasis broke up, Jay Z later claimed he would like to work with Liam Gallagher.[178]

Mashups

[edit]

"Wonderwall" was featured in the popular mashup "Boulevard of Broken Songs" mixed by Party Ben in late 2004, which also contained parts of both Travis's "Writing to Reach You" (which contains the line "Radio is playing all the usual / what's a Wonderwall anyway?") and Green Day's "Boulevard of Broken Dreams". In late 2006, Gallagher accused Green Day of 'ripping off' "Wonderwall", saying "If you listen, you'll find it is exactly the same arrangement as "Wonderwall". They should have the decency to wait until I am dead [before stealing my songs]. I, at least, pay the people I steal from that courtesy".[179]

Neil Cicierega's mashup albums Mouth Silence and Mouth Moods feature tracks that are mashups of "Wonderwall" titled "Wndrwll" and "Wallspin", the former a humorous remix featuring "Everywhere You Look" and the latter a mashup with "You Spin Me Round (Like A Record)".[180][181]

[edit]

"Wonderwall" is the team song of Minnesota United FC of Major League Soccer, sung after every home victory. The overarching fan organisation is MNWonderwall.[182] "Wonderwall" is also played after all Manchester City F.C. home games.[183] "Wonderwall" is the pre-match song for Australian A-League Men side Adelaide United.[184]

On 7 April 2011, Mr. 305 artist Jamie Drastik released the song "Save Me" which heavily samples "Wonderwall". It is the lead single from Jamie's mixtape Champagne and Cocaine. The song also features a verse from Jamie's mentor and Mr. 305 boss Pitbull. Jamie performed "Save Me" all around the world, including on the Planet Pit World Tour. The song achieved major radio success all across the US. It is currently the most popular song from Champagne and Cocaine.[185]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
"Wonderwall" is a song by the English rock band Oasis, written by lead guitarist and primary songwriter . Released on 30 October 1995 as the fourth single from the band's second studio album, (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, it features lead vocals by and is characterized by its acoustic-driven ballad style with introspective lyrics about an imaginary savior figure. The track quickly became one of Oasis's signature songs, propelling the album to global success and exemplifying the band's peak during the mid-1990s era. It peaked at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart, held off from the top spot by Robson & Jerome's cover of "", and spent 30 weeks in the top 100. In the United States, "Wonderwall" reached number 8 on the in 1996 and topped the chart, marking Oasis's first and only number-one hit on that ranking. The song's universal appeal has led to its certification as 8× platinum in the UK by the (BPI), equivalent to over 4.8 million units including streams, and gold in the US by the RIAA for 500,000 units. Noel Gallagher has described "Wonderwall" as a song about "an who's gonna come and save you from yourself," drawing inspiration in part from George Harrison's 1968 album , which provided the song's title. Its simple and anthemic chorus have made it a staple at live performances, weddings, and pub sing-alongs, often covered by artists ranging from to the cast of Glee. The official music video, directed by , features the band performing in a stylized setting and has amassed over 1 billion views on . Following Oasis's 2009 breakup, "Wonderwall" retained enduring popularity, frequently re-entering charts due to and streaming. In 2024, amid the announcement of the band's reunion tour—Oasis Live '25—the song surged back into the top 20 at number 17 and debuted at number 18 on Billboard's chart. In 2024, it was named the 's most-streamed song from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s by the , underscoring its lasting cultural impact.

Background

Writing and inspiration

Noel Gallagher began writing "Wonderwall" in 1995, during the sessions for Oasis's sophomore album (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, amid the peak of the era when the band was navigating intense fame and internal tensions. The song's initial inspiration stemmed from Gallagher's relationship with his then-girlfriend Meg Mathews, whom he credited in a 1996 interview as the subject, reflecting her support during personal and professional challenges, including the collapse of her events company. However, Gallagher later distanced the track from this interpretation, stating in a 2002 documentary that the media had misconstrued its meaning and that it was not directly about her to avoid hurting her feelings. Originally titled "Wishing Stone"—a reference to a stone given to him by a woman he met during Oasis's 1994 North American tour, who suggested it would grant wishes—Gallagher renamed it after encountering George Harrison's 1968 instrumental album , whose evocative title resonated with him during the creative process. Gallagher drew musical influences from , which informed the song's introspective yet uplifting tone. Early demos of "Wonderwall" were intimate acoustic ballads, with Gallagher performing stripped-down versions on guitar, as captured in live sessions and bootlegs from the period; these evolved into a fuller band arrangement with layered instrumentation to suit Oasis's rock sound. At its core, Gallagher described "Wonderwall" as a for an idealized savior figure amid personal turmoil, representing "an who's gonna come and save you from yourself," a he elaborated in interviews to emphasize its role as a of rather than a literal romance.

Recording and production

The recording of "Wonderwall" occurred at in Monmouth, , from May to June 1995, during sessions for Oasis's second album, (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. Co-produced by Owen Morris and , with Morris also serving as engineer, the basic track was captured quickly in one day, emphasizing the band's raw energy and minimal overdubs to maintain authenticity.. Noel Gallagher performed the iconic acoustic guitar riff on an EJ-200, providing the song's driving rhythm and harmonic foundation. Paul "Bonehead" Arthurs added the distinctive line using a fitted with a slide, contributing a bluesy texture that enhanced the track's emotional depth. The rhythm section featured Paul "Guigsy" McGuigan on bass and Alan White on drums, who had replaced original drummer during the album sessions, laying down a straightforward groove that supported the song's mid-tempo pulse. Morris noted the efficiency of the session, stating, "It was kind of quick," reflecting Oasis's approach to capturing live-feel performances without excessive polishing. Liam Gallagher's lead vocals were recorded in just a few takes, with the production team opting to retain the first or second for its unfiltered intensity and natural ad-libs, prioritizing emotional delivery over technical perfection. provided backing vocals and additional guitar layers, while the track's lush quality was elevated by Kurzweil strings added by Owen Morris during mixing. The full personnel for "Wonderwall" included on lead vocals; on lead guitar, acoustic guitar, and backing vocals; Paul Arthurs on rhythm and slide ; Paul McGuigan on bass; and Alan White on , with Owen Morris on Kurzweil strings. Mixing took place at in , where Morris applied subtle compression and reverb to the vocals and guitars, ensuring the elements blended cohesively while preserving the song's dynamic range and live-wire feel. The Beatles' influence on the arrangement subtly informed the string choices, evoking a orchestral rock style.

Music and lyrics

Composition and style

"Wonderwall" is composed in the key of at a of 87 beats per minute (BPM), employing a straightforward verse-chorus form augmented by a bridge section. The song's structure adheres to this format, beginning with an instrumental intro that mirrors the verse progression, followed by alternating verses and choruses, a bridge that introduces variation, and a final chorus outro. This conventional arrangement underscores the track's accessibility, allowing its melodic hooks to drive the emotional narrative. Stylistically, "Wonderwall" exemplifies rock, integrating acoustic folk influences with the raw energy of 1990s , while its title draws from George Harrison's album Wonderwall Music, the soundtrack for the Wonderwall, evoking subtle associative nods to psychedelic aesthetics through its introspective tone. The primary centers on a fingerpicked providing the rhythmic foundation, complemented by an lead that emerges prominently in the bridge solo, a bass line that adheres closely to root notes for harmonic support, and a pattern emphasizing the snare for a punchy, driving backbeat. These elements combine to create a textured, anthemic sound typical of the era's guitar-driven rock. The framework relies on a repeating progression throughout much of the song, with the chorus highlighting F♯m–E–D–A, which builds tension and release through its descending motion and modal mixture, enhancing the emotional intensity. Production choices, such as subtle overdubs, further enrich the without overshadowing the core instrumentation.

Lyrics and themes

The lyrics of "Wonderwall" revolve around a sense of and yearning, with the narrator addressing an enigmatic figure who offers amid personal turmoil. Key verses highlight this dynamic, such as: "Today is gonna be the day / That they're gonna throw it back to you / By now, you should've somehow / Realised what you gotta do / I don't believe that anybody / Feels the way I do about you now," followed by the chorus: "Because maybe / You're gonna be the one that saves me / And after all / You're my wonderwall." These lines evoke a profound emotional intensity, blending vulnerability with hope. Central themes include longing for connection, the quest for , and relational dependency, where the "wonderwall" symbolizes a protective presence that shields against inner doubts and external pressures. , the song's writer, has described the "wonderwall" as representing an who becomes a source of redemption, emphasizing themes of everyday heroism in relationships. The lyrics' ambiguity—such as "Backbeat, the word is on the street / That the fire in your heart is out," where "backbeat" could refer to a musical or a metaphorical of life—invites multiple readings, with some interpreting it as a commentary on lost passion or societal gossip. Fan interpretations often diverge between romantic and platonic lenses, with the song's open-ended phrasing fueling theories of it as a love ballad or a broader to and . Gallagher has confirmed the core idea as "a about an who's gonna come and save you from yourself," underscoring salvation as a psychological rather than literal dependency. Post-release, the song's meaning evolved in public perception following Gallagher's 2000 divorce from Meg Mathews, whom many initially believed inspired the track; he later explicitly denied this, stating the media had misinterpreted it and that the lyrics were not tied to her. This clarification shifted focus toward its universal themes of , detached from specific personal events.

Release

Formats and track listings

"Wonderwall" was released in multiple physical formats in the , including vinyl, cassette, and CD singles, each featuring different B-sides and bonus tracks written by . The standard 7" vinyl single (catalogue number CRE 215, , 1995) was a double A-side release with the following tracks:
  • "Wonderwall" – 4:18
  • "Round Are Way" – 5:42
The cassette single (catalogue number CRECS 215, , 1995) mirrored the vinyl format as a double A-side:
  • "Wonderwall" – 4:18
  • "Round Are Way" – 5:42
There were two CD single editions. The primary CD single (catalogue number CRESCD 215, , 1995) included:
  • "Wonderwall" – 4:18
  • "Round Are Way" – 5:42
  • "The Swamp Song" – 4:19
  • "The Masterplan" – 5:23
Internationally, variations existed, such as the US promotional CD single (Epic Records, 1995, catalogue number 49K 78204), which incorporated album tracks and live recordings for radio play:
  • "Wonderwall" – 4:18
  • "Round Are Way" – 5:42
  • "Talk Tonight" – 4:21
  • "Rockin' Chair" – 4:39
  • "I Am the Walrus" (live, Glasgow Cathouse, June 1994) – 8:15
In 2025, to commemorate the 30th anniversary, Oasis released digital remasters of "Wonderwall" as part of the deluxe edition of (What's the Story) Morning Glory? (Big Brother Recordings, 2025), featuring the 2014 remastered audio alongside new unplugged versions. These digital formats are available on streaming platforms and include isolated stems suitable for DJ remixing and production use.

Cover art

The cover art for Oasis's "Wonderwall" single was designed by Brian Cannon of the creative agency , who handled visuals for the band's early releases. It features a deliberately blurred, out-of-focus of Anita Heryet, a employee who stood in as the model, holding an empty picture frame in front of her face against a cool blue-toned background. The image, shot by photographer Michael Spencer Jones on in northwest , evokes the hazy, dreamlike of 1960s album sleeves and film posters. The design draws direct inspiration from the surrealist works of , incorporating the artist's recurring motif of frames to separate and distort reality, while nodding to the psychedelic aesthetics of the 1968 film Wonderwall that lent the song its title. Originally, the shot was planned with in the frame, but intervened during production, insisting on a female figure to better suit the song's themes. The title "Wonderwall" appears in bold white sans-serif lettering at the top, with "Oasis" in smaller font below, accompanied by the logo; this layout was consistent across physical formats like CD and vinyl singles. Promotional versions occasionally substituted band member photos for the main image, while later reissues, including digital editions tied to compilations like the 2006 , retained the core artwork with minor updates for remastered packaging and online distribution.

Release history

"Wonderwall" was first released as a single in the on 30 October 1995 by , following the album (What's the Story) Morning Glory? which came out on 2 October 1995. The single saw international rollout shortly thereafter, including a release in in October 1995 under and in the United States in November 1995 via . Subsequent re-releases included a digital version made available on in 2005, expanding accessibility in the emerging online music market. A vinyl reissue of the parent featuring "Wonderwall" was produced in 2020 to mark the 25th anniversary of (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, pressed on limited-edition silver vinyl by . In 2025, amid the Oasis Live '25 reunion tour, a live recording of "Wonderwall" from the band's concert on 16 August 2025 was released for streaming, alongside updates to the track's availability on digital platforms to capitalize on renewed interest. The original release was promoted through targeted radio airplay campaigns in and , helping to build anticipation and drive early international exposure for the single.

Promotion

Music video

The music video for "Wonderwall", directed by , was filmed on 30 September 1995 at Unit 217B, a in , . It features the band members performing in a stark, sparsely furnished room, intercut with surreal vignettes of circus performers—including clowns engaged in chaotic antics and a in a white dress—evoking psychedelic aesthetics inspired by Beatles-era visuals such as those in Help!. The sequence symbolizes the song's titular "wonderwall" as an enigmatic, salvific figure, adding a layer of conceptual abstraction to the band's raw performance shots. Shot in moody black-and-white with selective color accents on the surreal elements, the video runs for 4:20 and premiered on later that year, contributing to the single's promotional push. In October 2025, coinciding with the song's 30th anniversary, Oasis released a remastered HD version of the video on and other streaming platforms, enhancing its visual clarity while preserving the original's distinctive style. The production briefly ties into the single's artwork motifs through its emphasis on isolated, introspective band imagery, though it prioritizes narrative over static portraiture.

Live performances

"Wonderwall" debuted live in an acoustic rendition by Noel Gallagher backstage at the Glastonbury Festival on June 24, 1995, performed exclusively for a Channel 4 broadcast. The song received its first full-band performance with lead vocals by Liam Gallagher on April 23, 1996, at The Point Theatre in Dublin, Ireland. An early highlight came on November 4, 1995, at London's Earl's Court Exhibition Centre, where Noel again delivered an acoustic version amid the band's (What's the Story) Morning Glory? tour. The track quickly became a concert staple, featured prominently in Oasis's 1997–1998 , where it energized crowds across arenas and stadiums worldwide. Notable events included its inclusion in the band's infamous appearance on August 23, 1996, at London's , with Noel on vocals in Liam's absence; the full recording remained officially unreleased until its inclusion in the 2020 deluxe edition of (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. Acoustic adaptations persisted in unplugged-style sets, contrasting the full-band electric versions enhanced by pyrotechnics during high-energy tours like the 1996 concerts and the 2025 reunion shows. Following Oasis's 2009 split, Liam Gallagher incorporated "Wonderwall" into his solo repertoire, debuting it live at the 2017 Exit Festival in Novi Sad, Serbia, and performing it regularly thereafter. The song's communal appeal shone through fan sing-alongs, particularly during the chorus, where audiences often took over vocals entirely, as seen in massive gatherings like the 2025 Oasis Live '25 Tour dates at Manchester's Heaton Park on July 11. At the reunion tour's Heaton Park shows, the track retained its explosive full-band arrangement, complete with pyrotechnics, drawing over 370,000 attendees across the Manchester leg alone.

Reception

Critical reception

Upon its release in October 1995 as the fourth single from Oasis's album (What's the Story) Morning Glory?, "Wonderwall" garnered widespread acclaim from music critics for its melodic structure and emotional depth. Rolling Stone, in its review of the album, praised the track as "a pensive, jangly tune that expresses Noel's disorientation at sudden stardom," highlighting its introspective quality amid the band's rising fame. Steve Baltin of Cash Box selected it as Pick of the Week, calling it "a perfect example of melodic pop." While some reviewers noted its adherence to Britpop conventions—such as echoing Beatles-inspired arrangements—as potentially formulaic, the song's heartfelt delivery and singalong chorus were frequently commended for providing emotional resonance that transcended genre tropes. In retrospective analyses, "Wonderwall" has solidified its status as a cornerstone of rock. ranked it at number 95 on its 2021 list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, crediting Noel Gallagher's "unabashedly earnest and heartfelt ballad" for its enduring inspiration drawn from personal relationships. placed it at number 35 on its 2007 countdown of the 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s, recognizing its role as an anthemic staple that captured the era's youthful exuberance. Amid the buzz surrounding Oasis's 2025 reunion tour, critics revisited the song's timeless appeal, often tying it to the band's defining legacy. The Guardian described performances of "Wonderwall" during the Cardiff opener as part of a "triumphant, nostalgic gig," emphasizing how its universal themes of longing continue to unite audiences in euphoric singalongs decades later. This renewed focus underscores the track's evolution from a 1995 hit to an indelible rock anthem, praised for its simplicity and emotional universality.

Commercial performance

"Wonderwall" debuted at number 2 on the UK Singles Chart in November 1995, held off from the top spot by Robson & Jerome's "I Believe/Up on the Roof," and maintained a strong presence on the chart thereafter. In the United States, the single climbed to its peak position of number 8 on the in March 1996, marking Oasis's highest-charting entry on that tally. The song achieved significant commercial success in its initial release period. Over time, its enduring popularity has been reflected in major certifications across key markets, as detailed below.
CountryCertifying BodyCertificationCertified UnitsDate
AustraliaARIA12× Platinum840,0002024
United KingdomBPI8× Platinum4,800,000November 2024
United StatesRIAAGold500,0002020
In the digital era, "Wonderwall" has seen a notable resurgence through streaming platforms, reaching 1 billion streams on by October 2020 as the first song from the to achieve that milestone. As of October 2025, the track had amassed over 3 billion streams, further propelled by a 320% surge in Oasis's overall global streams following the announcement and early shows of the band's reunion tour in July 2025.

Cover versions

Mike Flowers Pops version

In December 1995, the British easy listening ensemble released a cover of Oasis's "Wonderwall" as a single on London Records, transforming the rock into a lounge-style arrangement with prominent brass and string sections. The track was presented with satirical intent, humorously marketed as the "original" version supposedly recorded in 1968, predating Oasis's 1995 release by decades to poke fun at the hit's ubiquity. This novelty approach contributed to its quick rise in popularity, capitalizing on the original's chart success while subverting its gritty rock aesthetic through smooth, orchestral elements. The single debuted on the UK Singles Chart on 30 December 1995 and climbed to a peak position of number 2, where it spent three weeks, ultimately logging nine weeks in the top 40; it was kept from the top spot by the ' "2 Become 1." Internationally, it reached number 5 in both and , number 10 in Ireland, and charted in several other European countries, including number 13 in . The (BPI) certified the single silver in January 1996 for sales exceeding 200,000 units. of Oasis responded lightheartedly to the cover, joking in interviews that it sounded like the authentic original version, reflecting the band's bemused acceptance of the parody. As a standout novelty hit, the recording highlighted The Mike Flowers Pops' signature style of reinterpreting contemporary rock tracks in retro formats, blending irony with polished musicianship. It was later included on the band's debut studio album, A Groovy Place, released in , which featured other lounge covers of modern songs. The version's success underscored the cultural moment of mid-1990s , where such whimsical reinterpretations could chart highly and extend a song's mainstream exposure.

Bring Me the Horizon version

Bring Me the Horizon released their cover of "Wonderwall" on January 29, 2025, as a digital single exclusively through Singles, with no physical release planned. The track was produced in-house by the band, led by vocalist , aligning with their self-production approach seen in recent albums. The cover reimagines the original anthem in a style, incorporating distorted guitars, power-chording in the verses, and a heavy breakdown toward the end, while retaining the song's core structure and lyrics. delivers screamed vocals in the verses, blending aggressive energy with the track's melodic chorus, and subtle electronic elements nod to the band's evolving sound from their Post Human series. The Singles release includes the "Wonderwall" cover alongside a of the band's track "Youtopia" from their 2024 album Post Human: NeX GEn. An official lyric video for the cover premiered on February 13, 2025, featuring abstract, glitchy visuals that complement the track's intense reinterpretation and tie into Bring Me the Horizon's thematic aesthetic from the Post Human era. The video emphasizes the lyrics' emotional core, with dynamic animations syncing to the heavy riffs and drops. The cover received positive reception for its successful genre fusion, transforming Oasis's acoustic-driven hit into a high-energy metal track while honoring the original's spirit. Oasis frontman publicly praised the version, calling it a "proper tune" in a response, which the band acknowledged appreciatively. It amassed 2.4 million streams on in its first week and has surpassed 28 million total streams as of November 2025. The band performed the cover live for the first time on June 5, 2025, during a show in , , and later at Reading in August 2025. Commercially, the single peaked at number 30 on the UK Official Rock & Metal Singles Chart, marking a brief but notable entry. In the US, it reached number 11 on the Hot Hard Rock Songs chart, highlighting its appeal within the hard rock community. The track's success underscores Bring Me the Horizon's ability to bridge generational gaps through bold reinterpretations.

Other notable covers

Ryan Adams released an acoustic cover of "Wonderwall" in 2004 as part of his album Love Is Hell, reinterpreting the song with a stripped-down folk arrangement that emphasized introspective vocals and minimal instrumentation. The single peaked at number 27 on the UK Singles Chart. performed a live acoustic version of "Wonderwall" during his 2015 stadium tours, often drawing from Adams's arrangement to deliver a heartfelt, crowd-engaging rendition at venues like . These performances highlighted the song's enduring appeal in contemporary pop settings. The song has been a staple in audition rounds on The Voice franchise, with contestants frequently choosing it for its recognizable melody and emotional range. Notable examples include Peta Jeffress's 2012 blind audition on The Voice Australia, where her soulful take earned coach turns, and Hannah Stow's 2024 performance on the same series, which garnered praise for its raw vulnerability. In 2024, "Wonderwall" inspired viral TikTok trends featuring acoustic duets, where users paired stripped-back guitar versions with personal stories or harmonies, amassing millions of views but without translating to mainstream chart resurgence. In September 2025, 16-year-old singer Chuck Adams performed an emotional acoustic cover of "Wonderwall" during his audition on season 20 of America's Got Talent, earning a standing ovation and advancing to the next round.

Legacy

Awards and accolades

"Wonderwall" garnered significant recognition in the mid-1990s through various music awards. At the 1996 NME Awards, the song won Best Single, highlighting its immediate impact on British music audiences. The track's music video, directed by , received the British Video of the Year award at the 1996 , underscoring its visual appeal and contribution to Oasis's rising prominence. In the United States, "Wonderwall" earned two nominations at the in 1997: Best Rock Vocal Performance by a Duo or Group and Best Rock Song, reflecting its crossover success in the rock genre. The song has also been celebrated in retrospective rankings. It topped the Triple J Hottest 100 poll in 1995, Australia's annual listener-voted countdown of the year's best tracks. Later, in 2006, Q magazine ranked "Wonderwall" second on its list of the 100 Greatest Songs of All Time, affirming its enduring status among rock anthems. In 2025, "Wonderwall" was named the UK's most-streamed song from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s by the Official Charts Company.

Cultural impact

"Wonderwall" has permeated various aspects of popular media, appearing in television series like HBO's Girls, enhancing emotional moments in episodes. Its inclusion in these contexts highlights its role as a versatile for themes of longing and camaraderie. The track has inspired numerous memes and parodies, often positioning it as an archetypal anthem due to its heartfelt lyrics about seeking solace in another person. A prominent , "Anyway, here's Wonderwall," satirizes amateur guitarists who perform the song at social gatherings to impress others, turning it into a symbol of clichéd romantic gestures. On , thousands of user-generated covers exist, ranging from acoustic renditions to humorous twists, underscoring its accessibility for aspiring musicians. In sports, "Wonderwall" has become a staple among Manchester City supporters, with players like leading sing-alongs in the dressing room after victories, often joined by Oasis co-founder , a lifelong fan. It has also echoed at events, where fans chant it during games to build atmosphere. Politically, the song resonated during the 1997 UK general election, aligning with Oasis's embodiment of "" as leader invited the band to post-victory, symbolizing a youthful cultural shift. Globally, "Wonderwall" serves as a karaoke favorite in , with localized versions like Japanese adaptations gaining popularity in social settings. In hip-hop, sampled its riff in "Jockin' Jay-Z" (2008) and performed a mashup with "" at , playfully responding to criticism from about hip-hop headliners. The 2025 Oasis reunion tour amplified its cultural footprint, sparking a resurgence through fan edits and reunion-themed filters that remix the song with nostalgic visuals, while vinyl sales of (What's the Story) Morning Glory? surged over 500% following the announcement. This revival reaffirmed "Wonderwall" as a timeless sing-along, bridging generations at live events.

References

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