Live at Knebworth Park 1996
The defining moment of Britpop history where legends were made.
Knebworth 1996 is a 2021 live album and documentary film by English rock band Oasis. The film was directed by Jake Scott and released on 23 September 2021, while the album was released on 19 November 2021. Both were recorded on 10–11 August 1996 at the Knebworth Festival at Knebworth Park, England. By the week after its release, the film had become the highest-grossing documentary of 2021 in the UK. The cover art for the album is a Jill Furmanovsky photograph from the 1995 edition of Glastonbury and was used for promotional posters prior to the 1996 festival.
- Location
- Knebworth Park, England
- Drummer
- Alan White
Verified Timeline
Lore & Background
Various tracks from Oasis Knebworth concerts have been previously released on various special and limited releases, with and without the exact concert date specification. "Champagne Supernova" from 11 August was released on …There and Then limited CD. "Cast No Shadow" and "Columbia" from 10 and 11 August respectively were released as iTunes bonus tracks to Stop the Clocks compilation album. "The Masterplan" and "Wonderwall" from 10 August were released on (What's the Story) Morning Glory? 2014 reissue, the latter as a Japanese only bonus track. "My Big Mouth" from 10 August was released on Be Here Now 2016 reissue.
In Their Own Story
The mud clung heavily to boots as the gates finally swung open under the grey sky. Thousands of voices hummed a single chord before the first note was struck by the band on stage. Liam adjusted his sunglasses against the blinding floodlights while Noel checked his guitar string one last time. The air smelled of wet grass, diesel fuel, and anticipation.
Reader's Guide
The setlist remained largely consistent across both evenings, anchored by the massive hits from their second studio album. Early tracks established energy before moving into mid-tempo anthems that defined the era of British rock in the mid-nineties. Each song transitioned smoothly, showcasing the tightness developed during extensive touring prior to this event. Weather played a significant role in the atmosphere, particularly during the second night when rain turned the grounds to mud. This only intensified the dedication of the audience who stood through the elements for hours without complaint. The band adapted their performance style slightly to match the heavier conditions on stage while maintaining high energy levels throughout. Memorable moments included extended instrumental jams and the band's relaxed interaction with the crowd between songs. The encores were legendary, often stretching late into the night with high-energy closers that left fans singing along until dawn. Security managed the flow of people carefully as the gates opened hours before sunset to ensure safety for everyone present on site.
Did You Know?
- The film was directed by Jake Scott and released on 23 September 2021, while the album was released on 19 November 2021.
- By the week after its release, the film had become the highest-grossing documentary of 2021 in the UK.
- The cover art for the album is a Jill Furmanovsky photograph from the 1995 edition of Glastonbury and was used for promotional posters prior to the 1996 festival.
- "Champagne Supernova" from 11 August was released on the …There and Then limited CD.
- "The Masterplan" and "Wonderwall" from 10 August were released on the (What's the Story) Morning Glory? 2014 reissue, the latter as a Japanese only bonus track.
Frequently Asked Questions
What event is Live at Knebworth Park 1996?
This refers to two consecutive nights where Oasis performed for massive audiences in Hertfordshire, England. These concerts mark the absolute zenith of the band's commercial and cultural power during the mid-nineties.
Which album era is associated with these performances?
The shows took place shortly after the release of their second studio record, (What's the Story) Morning Glory?. This timing cemented a legacy that would influence generations of musicians who followed in their wake.
Who played drums during the Knebworth concerts?
Alan White served as the drummer for these historic live performances at Knebworth Park. His contribution was part of the lineup during this defining moment of Britpop history where legends were made.
Why is this event considered important by critics and fans?
It is often cited as the definitive live capture of the group at their peak artistic level. The energy captured here stands as a legendary benchmark for British rock bands in music history.
Was there an official release made from these shows?
Yes, the concerts were eventually released as an official live video for public consumption. This allowed fans to experience the atmosphere of those nights long after the event concluded.
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