Former Oasis drummer Tony McCarroll recalls argument that led to him being fired
Former Oasis drummer Tony McCarroll has addressed being fired from the legendary band in 1995 following an argument in Paris.
McCarroll was a founding member of Oasis alongside Liam Gallagher, Paul McGuigan, and Paul ‘Bonehead’ Arthurs, with Noel Gallagher joining the fold shortly afterwards. The drummer played on the entirety of their first album, Definitely Maybe, as well as ‘Whatever’ and ‘Some Might Say’, before being replaced by Alan White.
Per The Sun, McCarroll addressed his exit at a recent fan event in North Shields. The drummer explained to those in attendance: “There was an incident in Paris. I was next door to Noel’s hotel room, which I didn’t know. I had an argument with some girl I was with and the next day we were doing the soundcheck.”
McCarroll continued: “I just finished my bit, and he turned around and, in front of everybody, he went, ‘You fucking keep me awake again, you’re getting fucking sacked, mate’.”
In response, McCarroll gave it back to Gallagher with both barrels, telling the crowd in North Shields: “Probably the most stupid thing I’ve ever done in my life, but I fronted him and said, ‘You won’t fucking speak to me like that again, no chance’. It was only a matter of weeks later I got the P45.”
Since his exit, McCarroll has not spoken with Noel. However, he would happily meet the songwriter in the future and repair their relationship, stating, “Would I sit down and have a cup of tea, a Rich Tea, with Noel, and go, ‘What the fuck happened, mate?’. I would.”
McCarroll claimed that other band members felt their positions were “under threat every day” but he “never saw it being something serious like losing your position in the band”.
In regards to Liam, McCarroll said he is “a shockingly nice guy” and claimed his public persona is “bravado” that is perhaps due to “nervousness”.
The drummer, who left the band in 1995, admitted that he “had a few more quid” but proudly reflected on his musical legacy, “I’ve got to be proud and happy that I’ve made my mark.”
Following his exit from the group, McCarroll later sued Oasis over royalties and was awarded £550,000 in a settlement, which saw him waive away his right to future royalty cheques which would have been far greater than the sum received.
Oasis’ triumphant reunion tour, with Joey Waronker on drums, continues tonight (July 30th) at a sold-out Wembley Stadium in London.
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