In a characteristically unfiltered outburst, Oasis guitarist and songwriting legend Noel Gallagher has delivered a blistering assessment of Australia's music scene, describing the country as the place where rock stars' careers go to die.
The Manchester-born musician didn't hold back during his recent interview, suggesting that Australia has become little more than a lucrative retirement home for ageing rock musicians chasing one final payday.
'The Graveyard Tour'
Gallagher painted a vivid picture of what he calls the typical Australian tour: "It's where you go when you're 57 and you've run out of ideas. You get on a plane, you play the same set you've been playing for 20 years to people who are just grateful you bothered to turn up."
His comments come despite his own successful tours down under, including recent performances with his band High Flying Birds that received critical acclaim and sold-out venues.
A History of Controversial Comments
This isn't the first time Gallagher has taken aim at Australian culture. He previously made headlines for his thoughts on Australian accents and the country's remote location, though he's always maintained a love-hate relationship with the nation.
"The problem with Australia," Gallagher explained, "is that it's so far away from everything that's culturally relevant. By the time trends get there, they're already dead everywhere else."
Industry Reaction
While Gallagher's comments are likely to ruffle feathers within the Australian music industry, many will recognise his trademark provocative humour. The musician has built a career on outspoken interviews and controversial opinions that often overshadow his musical achievements.
Australian promoters and fellow musicians are yet to respond publicly to Gallagher's latest broadside, though industry insiders suggest his comments might not damage his popularity among dedicated Antipodean fans.
Despite the criticism, Gallagher confirmed he has no plans to boycott Australian stages, acknowledging the country remains a profitable touring destination even if he questions its cultural significance in the global music landscape.
