Image courtesy of Warner Records/Tom Beard
Liam Gallagher is no stranger to the stage. From Oasis to Beady Eyes, the British singer has been a staple of the music scene for nearly three decades. But this time is different. Now a solo act, Gallagher is on tour opening for The Who as he supports his sophomore album Why Me? Why Not. Beyond the Stage caught Gallagher’s stop in San Francisco at the Chase Center and witnessed the seasoned performer firsthand.
As with any opening set (even if you are the one and only Liam Gallagher), the crowd continued to file in much for much of the first song. But as “Rock n Roll God” concluded, the packed Chase Center was fully enthralled in the performance.
Gallagher was simultaneously-and characteristically-brash and charming onstage. Maintaining his signature stance of a slight lean and arms clasped behind his back for the entire performance, Gallagher is not exactly a showman. But he doesn’t need to be. His distinct, powerful voice is enough for a captivating show. “Once” was a particular standout. Gallagher performed the heavily John Lennon-inspired song with emotion and grace. The show also happened to coincide with Lennon’s birthday, prompting Gallagher to dedicate the performance to the rock legend. Gallagher’s known admiration of the Beatle (he even named one of his children Lennon) only added to the song’s intensity.
Gallagher’s set was remarkably short for such a prolific musician. At just six songs and less than thirty minutes, the performance felt unnaturally brief. Indeed, by Gallagher’s final song (a soaring rendition of “Champagne Supernova”), the enthusiastic audience seemed ready for many more. With the release of Why Me? Why Not., San Francisco hopefully will not have to wait very long for a chance to see a full Liam Gallagher set.
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