Liam Gallagher’s “One of Us” Lyrics Meaning

“One of Us” is a song written and recorded by English singer Liam Gallagher of Oasis fame. The lyrics of “One of Us” are very personal in the sense that they center on the relationship between Liam and someone very close to him. It is widely believed that the person Liam is addressing in this song is his older brother Noel Gallagher (also of Oasis fame). The song finds Liam reminiscing deeply about his younger days with the addressee and wishing that things could return back to how they were. This gives the listener a clear idea that Liam’s relationship with the addressee isn’t no longer as close as it used to be.

Along the way something happened and brutally tore them apart. Now Liam’s is trying to be the bigger man. His aim is to squash the beef or (rather drama) that made them stop speaking to each other. He reminds the addressee of their past days together. In doing so, he entreats him to open his door, for he will always be a part of him.

Is this song really about Noel?

Many think so. Even the British tabloid newspaper The Sun believes this is about Noel. In an August 2019 article published by The Sun, “One of Us” is a “groveling love letter” from Liam to Noel. In this so called letter, The Sun claims Liam is saying he misses his brother Noel (whom he has been feuding with for ages). According to the paper, this song finds Liam literally begging Noel for a reunion and revival of their band (Oasis).

What Liam Gallagher has said about this tune

According to an article published by UK’s Radio X, Liam explained the meaning of “One of Us”. In this article, Liam reportedly said the song centers on “family, friendship and a sense of belonging”.

In addition to explaining the song’s meaning, Liam said the song reminded him of the iconic American girl group The Sweet Inspirations. FYI, Cissy Houston (mother of the late Whitney Houston) was a member of this iconic group.

Quick Facts about “One of Us”

• This song was penned by Liam Gallagher and American producer and songwriter Andrew Wyatt (who also produced it). Wyatt also co-wrote and produced Liam’s 2019 singles “Once“, “Shockwave” and “The River“.
• Liam officially dropped “One of Us” on August 16, 2019 as the fourth single from his sophomore album Why Me? Why Not. But days before the song’s release, he posted the lyrics on his official website.
• In the chorus, Liam references the Noel Gallagher penned Oasis hit “Live Forever“. Many believe that this reference is the biggest proof that this song is about Noel.

What do we really think about “One of Us”?

Without a shred of doubt, we believe Liam is basically extending the olive branch to his brother, Noel. He wants the both of them to put the past behind and reunite as band members and most importantly as brothers. Regardless of which angle you look at this song from, it is truly a touching piece of work. And what’s more, the video was released on the 10th anniversary of the demise of Oasis. Oasis officially disbanded on 28th August, 2009 (28.08.2009). That date appears boldly on a door in the song’s visuals.  

What do the three chairs in the music video of “One of Us” mean?

It’s beyond apparent, the three chairs as well as the three young lads are representing the Gallagher brothers (Liam, Noel and Paul Gallagher).