Noel Gallagher's 10 Greatest Solo Tracks

Noel Gallagher and his High Flying Birds have produced some beautifully crafted music in the wake of the infamous 2009 Oasis split.

Including 4 studio albums namely: 'Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds' (2011) , 'Chasing Yesterday' (2015) , 'Who Built The Moon?' (2017) and 'Council Skies' (2023), This is accompanied by the compilation album 'Back The Way We Came Vol.1' (2021).

With the sheer depth and variety found in Songwriter of the Year Noel Gallagher’s discography, ranking his solo tracks is no easy feat. Still, we’ve taken on the challenge. Here are our picks for the top 10 Noel Gallagher solo tracks that truly rise above the rest.

10. Open The Door, See What You Find

Coming in at number 10 is a standout from Noel’s latest album, 'Council Skies,' made all the more special thanks to the magic touch of The Smiths’ legendary guitarist Johnny Marr. The song radiates optimism, centering on themes of growth and acceptance, and hooks you in with lush strings, classic guitar riffs, and a chorus that refuses to leave your head. Noel Comments:

“It’s about being happy with that. Being happy with where you are in life, with who you are, and where you’re going. Life is good!”

9. Aka... Broken Arrow

It almost feels wrong that a song like Broken Arrow lands all the way down at number nine, but that really says a lot about the strength of Noel Gallagher’s solo catalogue. Despite being a fan favorite from his self-titled debut album, Broken Arrow never even got a single release—though when you look at the singles that did make the cut, it’s clear that swapping them around would only present the same tough choices.

8. You Know We Can't Go Back

At number 8, You Know We Can’t Go Back feels a bit ironic in light of the recent Oasis Live 25 reunion tour, but the song stands strong on its own. It’s propelled by a vibrant, feel-good melody and the kind of classic, sing-along chorus that Gallagher has made his trademark.

7. Riverman

Staying with 'Chasing Yesterday’, we find Riverman landing at number 7. It’s a track that showcases Noel’s knack for sophisticated, classic songwriting. Its rich, relaxing sound and beautifully layered production make it a standout, effortlessly blending depth with laid-back charm.

6. Aka...What a Life

AKA... What a Life!, the first single from his self-titled debut album to make this list, pays tribute to Noel’s experiences at the Hacienda, where the pulsating energy of Acid House left a lasting impression. The track features a recurring piano riff and an ear-piercing guitar solo that bridges the chorus and verse, showcasing an energetic, anthemic spirit and a creative fusion of rock and dance that has earned widespread acclaim and has been played over 495 times on Noel’s solo tours. It deserves a spot on this list.

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5. The Right Stuff

What really stands out about The Right Stuff is its hypnotic blend of psychedelic soul, blues, and jazz. The way these elements come together is beautifully seamless, and it’s a big departure from Noel Gallagher’s usual songwriting style. The song feels refined and elegant, with lush guitar bends throughout that create a cinematic, chilled-out atmosphere. Vocals are shared between Noel and guest vocalist Joy Rose, a spectacularly complimentary duo; it’s soulful to the core, completely unique, and a solo standout.

4. If I Had A Gun

Many fans would argue that If I Had A Gun is the pinnacle of Noel Gallagher’s solo work, and it’s easy to see why. The track’s moody acoustic melodies and sweeping emotional hooks are delivered with an understated elegance that’s both enchanting and powerful. Even as the song maintains its brooding atmosphere, the chorus lifts off with a driving force that gets entire crowds singing along. Noel’s vocals shine with remarkable sensitivity, and the collective response when that first chord rings out is nothing short of electric.

3. Alone on The Rope

Alone on the Rope isn’t just another standout B-side from Noel Gallagher; it’s an immersive, unforgettable journey. This track elevates the art of the B-side, washing over the listener with its dreamy, breezy piano line, subtle psychedelic touches, and an intimate, laid-back vocal that transports you straight into the haze of a midnight jazz bar. It’s pure atmosphere and proof of Noel’s diverse songwriting mastery. It’s a lyrical masterpiece and an emotional journey from start to finish. Even as it explores darker themes, the song provides a simple but vital anchor for listeners. The refrain gently reminds,

"And if you can't find no hope / Don't look down / Don't look down,"

2. Dead In The Water

Holding steady at number 2 is the hauntingly beautiful, stripped-back acoustic piece Dead in the Water. This song’s very existence feels almost like a stroke of luck, originally surfacing as a bonus track on Noel Gallagher’s third solo album, ‘Who Built The Moon?’. The story behind it adds to its charm: Noel played the song live during a 2015 interview at RTÉ 2FM in Ireland, unaware it was being recorded. Years later, a colleague reminded him of this impromptu session, and upon hearing the tape, Noel was so moved he decided it belonged on the album. What makes this track truly special is its stark simplicity, with a raw, four-chord structure, minimal production, and Gallagher’s vulnerable vocals, all bathed in the natural warmth of a live studio’s reverb. It's loved by most Noel Gallagher fans and is now a live highlight of any High Flying Birds set.

So, are you wondering what could possibly take the number one spot? Or maybe you’ve already guessed...

1. Everybody's On The Run

Originally released as the final single from the self-titled debut album 'Noel Gallagher's High Flying Birds,' Everybody's on the Run is nothing short of a seismic orchestral anthem. With sweeping strings and a powerful choir, the track creates an immense, cinematic soundscape that’s both grand and emotionally stirring. As the opening song on Noel’s debut album—and a frequent set opener for the High Flying Birds—it sets the tone with its dramatic, inspiring, and soaring energy. This song is a bold statement, building anticipation before launching you headlong into an exhilarating wall of sound. While it carries echoes of Oasis, Everybody's on the Run perfectly encapsulates what makes Noel’s solo songwriting so compelling: ambition, emotion, and an unshakeable sense of grandeur.

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Ellis Douglas
Editor, BritRock Heaven