Oasis Perform on Saturday Night Live (4 Oct 1997)

Four weeks after Earls Court, Oasis crossed the Atlantic to appear on Saturday Night Live. The 4 October 1997 episode was hosted by Matthew Perry, then at the height of his Friends fame. Oasis took the stage not with one of their blockbuster singles but with the B‑side “Acquiesce” and the introspective album track “Don’t Go Away.” Radio X notes that the rare performance showed the band playing their “Some Might Say” B‑side “Acquiesce” and the Be Here Now song “Don’t Go Away”, demonstrating confidence in their deeper catalogue.

The appearance was part of Oasis’ ongoing attempt to crack the US market. The set was tight and professional, but the broadcast is perhaps best remembered for its awkward closing moments. As the cast and musicians gathered to wave goodbye, rhythm guitarist Bonehead attempted a sloppy high‑five with comedian Molly Shannon, Matthew Perry yelled “I love you grandad,” Liam blew kisses to the camera and Noel looked unimpressed. The group’s cool detachment contrasted with SNL’s American cheeriness, producing a wonderfully odd slice of television.

Although the episode didn’t transform Oasis into US superstars, it remains a cult favourite among fans. It captures the band in transition: still huge in the UK but struggling to translate that success across the Atlantic. The choice of “Acquiesce” also foreshadowed how many fans would come to value Oasis’ B‑sides as much as their hits. The SNL performance stands as a reminder that, even at the height of their fame, Oasis could still surprise viewers with unexpected song choices and unfiltered stage presence.