A rare early Oasis gig contract specifying what the band needed in terms of ‘sober’ helpers, ‘quality lager’ and no fast food could smash its estimate at auction.
In classic rock star-style, the original 1994 gig contract stipulates the need for ‘24 large cans of quality lager’ for band and crew. But performing is clearly thirsty work because it also requests four litres of still mineral water, 10 cans of soft drinks, fruit juices teas and coffees.
And though a note about crisps, nuts, biscuits and fruit has been scribbled out Oasis also requested a good quality two-course meal – ‘not fast-food type’ – or £6 per head to purchase one.
In addition, the contract asked for ‘at least two able-bodied, sober-speaking persons’ to assist the road crew in moving equipment and setting up the stage.
The fascinating item, which is due to be sold in Hansons Auctioneers’ March 23 Music Memorabilia Auction, provides an insight into life on the road for one of Britain’s most successful bands nearly 20 years ago – and it’s expected to spark strong bidding.
The Primary Talent International contract relates to an Oasis gig at The Old Trout in Windsor, Berkshire, on May 7, 1994 and was drawn up a few weeks earlier on April 18.
Contracts typically document items such as cost of venue hire, billing, staff, sound check, dressing room, stage arrangements and catering needs – hence the aforementioned lager, drinks and food.
Claire Howell, above, music memorabilia specialist at Hansons, said: “Items like this are extremely rare and this lot comes with great provenance. It also includes a flyer advertising the gig.
“It’s valued at £1,000-£1,500 but I wouldn’t be surprised to see it sell for more. It could easily whip up a bidding frenzy among fans at auction, such is the enduring popularity and nostalgia for Oasis.
“The
seller is a lady who worked in the music industry and amassed an interesting
collection over the years. She is now looking to sell some specialist pieces
ahead of retirement. She confirmed the contract was purchased directly
from a man who organised gigs at The Trout at the time.
“Memorabilia linked to Britpop bands from the 1990s is gaining in value and UK groups don’t come much bigger than Oasis. The Gallagher brothers, Liam and Noel, have had an enormous impact on the music scene and Oasis songs still resonate with fans today, even though the group split up more than 10 years ago.
“Rumours are rife Oasis may reunite in 2021 and this 27-year-old find has certainly brought memories of the band’s early days flooding back.”
Oasis formed in Manchester in 1991. Developed from earlier group the Rain, they originally consisted of Liam Gallagher (lead vocals, tambourine), Paul Arthurs (guitar), Paul McGuigan (bass guitar) and Tony McCarroll (drums). Later, Liam’s older brother Noel joined on lead guitar and vocals.
Oasis have sold more than 75 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling bands of all time.They are among the most successful acts on the UK Singles Chart and Albums Chart, with eight UK number-one singles and eight UK number-one albums. The band also achieved three platinum albums in the US.
They won 17 NME Awards, nine Q Awards, four MTV Europe Music awards and were honoured in 2007 for their Outstanding Contribution to Music and one for the Best Album of the Last 30 Years – (What’s the Story) Morning Glory?. The group abruptly disbanded after the departure of Noel in August 2009 but fans have long hoped for a Gallagher brothers’ musical reunion.
The Oasis contract is due to be sold on March 23 by Hansons Auctioneers. To find out more, email [email protected].
The Music Memorabilia catalogue will be published at www.hansonlive.co.uk
Oasis band picture credit: – originally posted to Flickr as oasis.gallagher.bros.002 | Liam and Noel Gallagher of Oasis performing in San Diego on September 18, 2005.
